Letter Of Interest Format Template
Letter of Interest Format Template
A letter of interest, also known as a prospecting letter or expression of interest, is a document sent to a company to express your interest in working for them, even if there aren’t any advertised positions that perfectly match your skills. Unlike a cover letter which responds to a specific job posting, a letter of interest proactively seeks opportunities.
The format is crucial for making a positive first impression. Here’s a template breakdown:
1. Heading
Begin with your contact information at the top, typically single-spaced:
[Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address] [Date] [Hiring Manager Name (if known), or Title] [Company Name] [Company Address]
2. Salutation
Address the recipient professionally. If you know the hiring manager’s name, use it. If not, research to find a contact. Avoid “To Whom It May Concern.” Alternatives include:
- “Dear Mr./Ms./Mx. [Last Name],”
- “Dear [Hiring Manager Title],” (e.g., “Dear Hiring Manager,”)
- If you absolutely cannot find a name, “Dear [Department] Team,” (e.g., “Dear Marketing Team,”) is a last resort.
3. Introduction (First Paragraph)
Immediately grab the reader’s attention. State the purpose of your letter clearly. Highlight why you are interested in *this specific* company. Mention how you learned about the organization. This is also a good place to highlight your key skill set or make a powerful statement that grabs the reader’s attention.
Example: “I am writing to express my keen interest in contributing to [Company Name]’s innovative work in [Industry/Specific Area]. As a seasoned [Your Profession] with expertise in [Specific Skill], I have been consistently impressed by [Company Name]’s commitment to [Company Value/Achievement], particularly your recent work on [Specific Project].”
4. Body Paragraphs (Second and Third Paragraphs)
This is where you sell yourself. Focus on your skills and experience relevant to the company and its industry. Tailor this section to demonstrate an understanding of the company’s needs and challenges. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe your accomplishments. Quantify your achievements whenever possible. Research the company’s mission and values and show how your skills and experience align with them. Show passion and genuine interest in the work they are doing. Avoid being generic.
Example: “In my previous role at [Previous Company], I successfully [Action] which resulted in [Quantifiable Result]. This experience equipped me with the skills in [Specific Skill] necessary to contribute effectively to [Company Name]’s [Company Goal/Project].”
5. Call to Action (Concluding Paragraph)
Clearly state your desired outcome. Request an informational interview or a meeting to discuss how your skills and experience can benefit the company. Express your enthusiasm and willingness to learn more. Thank the reader for their time and consideration.
Example: “I am eager to learn more about potential opportunities at [Company Name] and discuss how my skills can contribute to your team’s success. I would welcome the opportunity to schedule a brief informational interview at your convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration.”
6. Closing
End with a professional closing:
- “Sincerely,”
- “Respectfully,”
- “Best regards,”
Followed by your typed name and signature (if submitting a hard copy). If submitting digitally, just type your name.
7. Formatting Tips
- Keep it concise – aim for one page.
- Use a professional font like Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri (11 or 12 point).
- Maintain consistent margins (1 inch is standard).
- Proofread carefully for any errors in grammar or spelling.
By following this format, you can create a compelling letter of interest that will capture the attention of potential employers and increase your chances of landing an interview.