Letter of Interest Sample: Templates and Examples for Any Situation

TL;DR

A letter of interest is a proactive document you send to companies you want to work for, even when they have not advertised open positions. Unlike cover letters that respond to job postings, letters of interest express enthusiasm for a company and inquire about potential opportunities in the hidden job market.

This guide provides ready-to-use letter of interest templates you can customize, along with expert strategies for crafting compelling letters. Understanding what makes a good cover letter provides the foundation for effective letters of interest.

Key Takeaways

• Proactive approach: Letters of interest target companies you admire, without waiting for job postings.

• Research-driven: Success requires demonstrating deep knowledge of the company's challenges and culture.

• Value proposition focus: Emphasize what you can contribute rather than what you want.

• Templates included: Copy-and-paste templates for professionals, career changers, graduates, and executives.

• Follow-up essential: Plan strategic follow-up since you are initiating contact without a formal process.

What Is a Letter of Interest?

A letter of interest (also called a letter of inquiry or prospecting letter) is a job search tool that allows you to reach out to companies before positions are posted. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 70% of jobs exist in the hidden job market—positions filled through networking and direct outreach rather than public postings.

Letters of interest help you access these hidden opportunities by putting yourself on the radar of hiring managers before positions are announced. For general guidance, review what is a cover letter for a job.

Letter of Interest vs. Cover Letter

Understanding the difference helps you use each tool effectively. Learn the fundamentals in how to write a cover letter.

When to Use a Letter of Interest

• Dream companies: Target organizations you want to join, regardless of current openings.

• Career transitions: Explain your interest and transferable skills proactively.

• Geographic relocations: Establish connections in a new city before moving.

• After networking: Follow up when contacts suggest reaching out to their company.

• Company growth: After news of expansion, funding, or new initiatives.

• Niche industries: Where positions are rarely posted publicly.

Essential Components of a Letter of Interest

Understanding what to include in a cover letter provides foundation, but letters of interest require additional strategic elements.

1. Professional Header

Include your name, contact information, date, and recipient details. For formatting, see how to format a cover letter.

2. Personalized Salutation

Address a specific person whenever possible. If you cannot find a name, use guidance from how to address a cover letter without a name.

3. Attention-Grabbing Opening

Lead with a specific observation about the company. Learn techniques in how to start a cover letter.

4. Value Proposition

Focus on what you can contribute:

• Relevant skills and specific achievements with results

• How your background addresses company needs

• Understanding of their industry position

5. Company-Specific Content

Demonstrate research by referencing:

• Recent company news or announcements

• Culture, values, or mission alignment

• Specific projects that impress you

6. Clear Call to Action

End with a specific request. See how to end a cover letter for closing strategies.

Letter of Interest Templates (Ready to Use)

Below are templates you can customize. For additional examples, explore cover letter examples for job applications.

Template 1: General Professional Letter of Interest

Best for: Professionals seeking opportunities at companies they admire

[Your Name]

[Your Address] | [Email] | [Phone]

[Date]

[Recipient Name], [Title]

[Company Name]

[Company Address]

Dear [Mr./Ms. Last Name],

I have been following [Company Name]'s impressive growth in [industry] and was particularly struck by your recent [specific achievement or news]. As a [your profession] with [X years] of experience in [relevant area], I am writing to express my strong interest in contributing to your team's continued success.

Throughout my career at [Current/Previous Company], I have [specific achievement with metrics]. My experience in [relevant skill area] has given me deep insight into [industry challenge], which I understand is a priority for [Company Name] based on your recent [company initiative].

What specifically draws me to [Company Name] is [specific company attribute—culture, mission, innovation]. I am impressed by [specific example] and believe my background in [relevant experience] would allow me to contribute meaningfully.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills might benefit [Company Name]. I am available at your convenience and can be reached at [phone] or [email].

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Template 2: Career Change Letter of Interest

Best for: Professionals transitioning industries. See how to write a cover letter for career change.

[Your Name]

[Contact Information]

[Date]

Dear [Mr./Ms. Last Name],

After [X years] building expertise in [current field], I am making a deliberate transition into [target field]—driven by my passion for [specific aspect] and recognition that [Company Name] represents the forefront of innovation in this space.

While my background is in [current field], my skills translate directly:

• [Transferable skill 1]: [How it applies]

• [Transferable skill 2]: [How it applies]

• [Transferable skill 3]: [How it applies]

To prepare, I have [relevant courses, certifications, or projects]. I am drawn to [Company Name] because [specific reason].

Would you be open to a 15-minute conversation about how someone with my background might contribute?

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Template 3: Recent Graduate Letter of Interest

Best for: New graduates. See cover letters with no experience.

[Your Name]

[Contact Information]

[Date]

Dear [Mr./Ms. Last Name],

As a recent [Degree] graduate from [University] focusing on [major], I have been researching companies at the forefront of [field]—and [Company Name] consistently stands out. I am writing to express interest in entry-level opportunities where I can contribute while learning from your experienced team.

During my studies, I developed practical skills through:

• [Relevant project or internship with outcome]

• [Leadership role or achievement]

• [Relevant certification or skill]

What attracts me to [Company Name] is [specific program or culture element]. I am eager to bring my [qualities] to a team where I can grow professionally.

Thank you for considering my inquiry.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Template 4: Executive/Senior Level Letter of Interest

Best for: Senior professionals targeting leadership positions

[Your Name]

[Contact Information] | [LinkedIn URL]

[Date]

Dear [Mr./Ms. Last Name],

Having led [type of initiatives] for [X years], most recently as [Title] at [Company], I have developed deep understanding of what drives success in [industry]. [Company Name]'s strategic positioning and recent [achievement] suggest an organization where my leadership could create significant value.

My track record:

• At [Company 1]: [Achievement with metrics—revenue, team, market impact]

• At [Company 2]: [Achievement with metrics—turnaround, savings, innovation]

[Company Name]'s focus on [strategic priority] resonates with my experience. The challenges in [industry landscape] are ones I have addressed successfully.

I would welcome a confidential conversation to explore alignment with your leadership needs.

Respectfully,

[Your Name]

Template 5: Post-Networking Event Letter of Interest

Best for: Following up after meeting a company representative

[Your Name]

[Contact Information]

[Date]

Dear [Mr./Ms. Last Name],

It was a pleasure meeting you at [event] on [date]. Our conversation about [topic] reinforced my interest in [Company Name]. I wanted to follow up on your suggestion that I reach out regarding potential opportunities.

As we discussed, my background in [relevant experience] aligns with [Company Name]'s focus on [priority]. I have been thinking about how my experience with [skill] could contribute to [specific initiative mentioned].

I have attached my resume and would welcome continuing our discussion. Please let me know if there is a convenient time to talk.

Warm regards,

[Your Name]

How to Write Your Letter of Interest

Follow this process for compelling letters. See how to structure a cover letter for organizing your content.

Step 1: Research Thoroughly

• Review company website, especially About Us, News, and Careers pages

• Read recent press releases and articles

• Research on LinkedIn—employee profiles and company updates

• Check Glassdoor for culture insights

• Identify specific people to address

Step 2: Identify Your Value

Determine what makes you a strong candidate. See how to add measurable achievements to a cover letter.

• List relevant skills and experiences

• Identify achievements with quantifiable results

• Consider how your background addresses company needs

Step 3: Craft Your Opening

Use good sentence starters for cover letters for inspiration. Effective openings:

• Reference something specific that impressed you

• Mention a mutual connection if applicable

• Highlight a company achievement or news item

Step 4: Format Professionally

• One page maximum—see how long a cover letter should be

• Professional fonts—consult what font to use for a cover letter

• 300-400 words—see how many words a cover letter should be

• Proofread carefully

Step 5: Perfect Your Sign-Off

See how to sign off a cover letter for professional closing options.

Expert Tips for Maximum Impact

"The letters that get my attention demonstrate the candidate has done real research—not just visited our homepage, but understood our challenges and where they could add value. Specific value propositions create interviews."

— Sarah Chen, VP of Talent Acquisition, Fortune 500 Technology Company

Timing Your Outreach

• After positive news: Send within a week of growth announcements or funding

• Industry hiring seasons: Research when your industry typically hires

• Avoid holidays: Late November through early January sees slower responses

Personalization Levels

"A letter of interest should feel like the start of a conversation, not a sales pitch. Make it clear why investing their time benefits them, not just you."

— Marcus Thompson, Executive Career Coach

Common Mistakes to Avoid

See general guidance in mistakes to avoid in job application letters.

Follow-Up Strategies

Follow-Up Timeline

1. Week 1: Send your initial letter

2. Day 7-10: Brief follow-up email if no response

3. Week 4: Second follow-up with new information

4. Ongoing: Periodic check-ins every 4-6 weeks

Follow-Up Email Sample

Subject: Following Up – [Your Name]'s Interest in [Company Name]

Dear [Mr./Ms. Last Name],

I wanted to follow up on my letter from [date] expressing interest in [Company Name]. Since then, I have [new achievement or observation about company]. I remain interested in contributing to your team.

Would a brief conversation be possible at your convenience?

Best regards,

[Your Name]

[Phone] | [Email]

Using AI Tools for Your Letter

Modern tools can help. Explore best AI cover letter generators for assistance.

Our AI cover letter generator can help create a professional foundation. When using AI, ensure authenticity—see how to make AI content sound human and unique.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is a letter of interest different from a cover letter?

Cover letters respond to specific job postings; letters of interest are sent proactively without advertised openings. See what is a cover letter for a job for details.

Should I send by email or mail?

Email is preferred for most industries. Physical mail can stand out for executive roles or traditional industries. Use a clear subject line like "Expression of Interest – [Your Profession]."

How long should a letter of interest be?

One page, 300-400 words. See how long a cover letter should be and how many paragraphs a cover letter should have.

How do I find the right person to address?

Use LinkedIn to identify hiring managers or department heads. Check company websites. If unable to find a name, address to the department head or hiring manager.

Should I attach my resume?

Yes, always include your resume. Mention in your letter that it is attached.

How soon should I follow up?

Wait 7-10 business days before first follow-up. Space subsequent follow-ups 2-4 weeks apart. Persistence shows genuine interest.

Can I send to multiple companies?

Yes, but each letter must be customized. Generic letters rarely generate responses. Quality over quantity.

What response rate should I expect?

Expect 5-15% response rates even with well-crafted letters. Non-response does not mean rejection—companies may keep your information for future openings.

Can this lead to an informational interview?

Yes, this is often the best outcome. Informational interviews allow you to learn about the company, make connections, and position yourself for future opportunities.

How important is a cover letter vs letter of interest?

Both serve different purposes. Cover letters are essential for posted positions; letters of interest access the hidden job market. See how important is a cover letter.

What if the company contacts me about a different position?

This is positive—your letter made an impression. Evaluate the opportunity on its merits. Even if not ideal, the conversation may reveal other opportunities.

Should I mention salary expectations?

No. Since there is no specific position, salary is premature. Wait until a specific opportunity is being discussed.

Conclusion: Taking Initiative in Your Job Search

Letters of interest represent a powerful, proactive approach that can open doors to the hidden job market. By reaching out to companies you admire, you demonstrate initiative and the kind of proactive mindset employers value.

Key principles:

• Research thoroughly—specific knowledge sets you apart

• Lead with value—emphasize what you can contribute

• Be specific—generic letters rarely generate responses

• Follow up strategically—persistence shows genuine interest

• Maintain professional quality—your letter represents your standards

Ready to create your letter? Our AI cover letter generator can help build a professional foundation. Explore our cover letter examples and cover letter templates for additional inspiration.

For more resources, see our job application letter guide and job application letter examples and templates.