A letter of interest (sometimes called a letter of inquiry or prospecting letter) is a message you send to a company that might be hiring, even if it hasn’t posted any open positions yet.

Why send one?

It allows you to discover potential job opportunities that align with your skills, put yourself on the company’s radar before roles go public, and demonstrate genuine interest in their mission or work. A well-written letter of interest can also help you secure an informational interview, giving you a chance to learn more about the organization and build a valuable connection.

A letter of interest can help you make a strong first connection with a company you want to work for, even before a job opens up.

Below, you’ll find guidance on how to craft a strong letter of interest, along with a downloadable template and examples tailored to different situations.

Letters of Interest vs. Cover Letters

A cover letter is written for a specific, advertised job. You explain why you’re the right candidate for that exact role.

A letter of interest, on the other hand, is proactive. It’s how you introduce yourself to a company that hasn’t posted an opening yet. Instead of targeting one open position, you highlight how your skills and experience could benefit the organization as a whole.

How to Write a Letter of Interest

1. Identify the right contact.

Ideally, address your letter to a specific decision-maker—such as a leader in the department you want to join. Use LinkedIn or your personal network (friends, alumni, colleagues) to find a direct connection. If you know someone inside the company, write to them or ask them to refer you to the appropriate hiring leader.

2. Focus on what you offer.

Your letter should clearly state why the company excites you and how you can add value. Keep the message centered on the results you can deliver—not on what you want from the company. Your goal is to position yourself as a strategic asset.

3. Close with purpose.

End your letter by expressing interest in a conversation. Request a brief meeting or call to explore potential opportunities and learn more about how you might contribute.

Consider requesting an informational interview if the company doesn’t currently have open positions. This is an effective way to learn more about the organization, understand its work environment, and get on the employer’s radar for future opportunities.

Make sure to include your contact details.

In the closing section of your letter, clearly list how the employer can reach you—phone number, email, or professional social profiles. The easier it is to contact you, the higher your chances of receiving a response.

Keep your letter concise and focused.

Communicate your key points quickly and clearly. Employers appreciate brevity and respect for their time, so avoid unnecessary filler.

Before writing your own letter, review detailed tips and ready-to-use templates for crafting a strong letter of interest. This will help you create a polished, professional, and SEO-friendly message that stands out.

Sample Letter of Interest

This is a sample letter of interest.

Sample Letter of Interest (Text Version)

Here is a rewritten version of the letter in different words while keeping the meaning, tone, and professionalism:

Joseph Q. Applicant

123 Main Street, Anytown, CA 12345 · 555-212-1234 · josephq@email.com

February 7, 2022

Jane Smith

Director, Human Resources

United International

123 Business Rd.

Business City, CA 54321

Dear Ms. Smith,

I recently came across an article discussing United International’s innovative digital marketing strategy in Marketing Magazine Online, and it prompted me to reach out to see if there are any current opportunities within your marketing department.

I bring five years of experience as a Marketing Strategist for a regional retail clothing chain. In that role, I boosted website traffic by 120% and reduced customer acquisition costs by 20%. Additionally, our overall sales increased by 50% during my tenure due to the campaigns I helped develop and implement.

I have included my resume for your review. It provides more details about my background, skills, and accomplishments. I would welcome the chance to speak with you or someone from your marketing team to discuss how my expertise could support United International’s goals.

Thank you for taking the time to review my letter. I look forward to the possibility of connecting with you soon.

Sincerely,

Joseph Q. Applicant

Additional Examples of Letters of Interest, Inquiry Letters, and Prospecting Letters

Explore these sample letters of interest, inquiry samples, and introductory letters to gather inspiration and guidance for writing your own.

Note

Make sure to customize your letter so it reflects your own experience and aligns with the specific company you’re reaching out to.

Even though sample letters, templates, and writing guidelines can help you get started, it’s important to stay flexible and revise your message carefully. Customize every section to make sure your letter delivers a strong, compelling pitch that highlights your value.

Read more:

How to Choose the Right Salutation for Your Cover Letter

Sample Email Cover Letter for a Volunteer Position

Cover Letter Template for a Resume

Sample Messages Asking About Available Jobs