What is a Letter of Interest?
Curious about what a letter of interest entails? Wondering when you might need to write one? In the midst of your job hunt, you may find yourself in a situation where there isn't a suitable job posting available at a company you're eager to join. This is when you would draft a letter of interest to convey your interest in speaking with a hiring manager regarding potential opportunities. Discover when to craft a letter of interest, what to encompass, strategies for crafting an impactful letter, and access examples along with a customizable template.
How to Craft a Letter of Interest
A letter of interest serves as a means for you to express interest in working for a specific organization. Also known as an inquiry letter or cold contact letter, this type of correspondence can be delivered via email, LinkedIn, or traditional mail. Despite being perceived as antiquated, sending a physical letter can help ensure that your message and resume are noticed and read.
Within your letter of interest, underscore the type of role you're seeking alongside your qualifications and experiences which render you a strong contender for such positions. Your aim should be to captivate the hiring manager's attention and trigger contemplation of your candidacy. Include reasons why you believe you'd be an ideal fit for the company, and don't hesitate to mention any relevant endorsements you may have from individuals affiliated with the organization.
Furthermore, identifying the name of a specific individual within the hiring department or a relevant manager can bolster the visibility of your letter. It's advisable to direct a copy of your letter to a manager within the department you're interested in, in addition to forwarding one to the company's human resources department.
Locating a Contact at the Company
Prior to composing your letter, tap into your network of contacts to ascertain if anyone in your circle has a connection with your target organization. Utilize resources like LinkedIn to identify individuals who are in close proximity to your network. If you're an alum of a college, reach out to the career office for possible alumni connections at the company. Professional associations can also prove to be valuable for identifying potential contacts.
In the event that you identify a suitable individual, don't hesitate to seek an introduction from your contact. Engage in an informational interview with the person to gain insights about the company. If the conversation goes well, inquire if they'd recommend reaching out to colleagues in departments that pique your interest. If affirmative, make sure to mention in your letter of interest that they facilitated your inquiry about job prospects.
When sending an email letter of interest, ensure that your contact information is included in your signature. This facilitates easy communication between you and the recipient. For instance, provide your email address, phone number, and LinkedIn profile URL if applicable.
