A letter of interest, also known as a letter of inquiry or a prospecting letter, is a type of business letter used to inquire about potential job or internship opportunities with a specific company. It is similar to a cover letter, but it is not typically attached to a specific job application. Instead, it is sent to a company to express your interest in working for them and to inquire about any current or future job openings.
There are several key elements that should be included in a letter of interest, regardless of the specific format you choose to use. These include:
A professional heading that includes your contact information, such as your name, address, phone number, and email address.
A salutation that addresses the recipient by name, such as "Dear [Name]." If you don't know the name of the person you are writing to, you can use a generic salutation like "Dear Hiring Manager."
An opening paragraph that explains the purpose of your letter and why you are interested in working for the company. This should be concise and to the point.
A body that expands on your qualifications and experience. This is where you can highlight your skills and achievements that make you a strong fit for the company.
A closing paragraph that reiterates your interest in the company and any open positions, and includes any relevant information about how you can be contacted.
A professional closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name and contact information.
Here is a sample letter of interest format that you can use as a guide:
[Your Name] [Your Address] [Your City, State Zip] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Employer's Name] [Employer's Address] [Employer's City, State Zip]
Dear [Employer's Name],
I am writing to express my interest in working for [Company Name]. As a recent graduate with a degree in [Your Degree], I am excited about the opportunity to join a company that is at the forefront of [Industry].
I have always been impressed by [Company's] commitment to innovation and excellence, and I believe that my skills and experience make me a strong fit for your team. In my previous role at [Previous Company], I gained valuable experience in [Relevant Skills], and I believe that this experience would translate well to a role at [Company].
I am particularly interested in the opportunity to [Specific Role or Department] at [Company], as I believe that my skills in [Relevant Skills] would be an asset to your team. I am confident that my strong communication skills and ability to work well in a team would make me a valuable addition to your organization.
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications and experience further and how I can contribute to the success of your company.
Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Contact Information]