
A letter of interest for employment is written to express interest in any present or future employment opportunities in an organization.
A letter of interest is often written by individuals seeking jobs in an organization that may or may not be hiring. Also known as a prospecting or an inquiry letter, such a letter simply showcases an individual’s interest in working for an organization, irrespective of whether the company is offering jobs in the position or not. With this, the company becomes aware of the availability of a prospective employee, and will consider this employee when an opening comes up. To be able to be remembered much after you have written the letter, it is important to know how to write it appropriately. This will be very valuable in helping you eventually get your dream job. So here are some tips and an example that help explain to you the art of writing a letter of interest for employment.
How to Write?
There are some important tips you should keep in mind when you consider writing this letter for a job. These tips have been mentioned here.
- Ensure that you thoroughly research the organization you wish to work for (history, products/services offered, and positions), and showcase this research in your letter. It is important so that the organization considers you as a serious candidate for any potential position.
- Ideally, find out the name of the recruitment manager instead of writing ‘To whomsoever it may concern’. It is believed that addressing a letter in this manner is plain rude.
- In the first paragraph, state why you would like to work with the organization, and where you heard about it. This may be a reference to an advertisement posted in a newspaper or a piece of writing you read about the organization on the web or in the paper. If you have heard about potential employment opportunities in the organization through an employee there, be sure to cite the reference in the letter.
- While a resume will give detailed information about your educational qualifications and experience, in the next paragraph, give a brief overview of why you should be considered for the job. Focus on your personal skills and strengths, as well as those you have derived from previous work experiences. Remember, your letter should not be a replica of your resume, but very distinct in that it acts like a foreword to a book.
- Finally, in the last paragraph mention how and when you will follow-up. Also, thank the person in question for the time spent considering your application. Mention your contact details (telephone and e-mail address) too.
- This is the appropriate format that should be followed. Do not make your letter too long, and use the standard paper size to print it. Ensure that the letter is signed by you.
- Make sure you proofread the letter before sending it and correct any errors there may be. Not doing so looks extremely unprofessional.
Sample Letter
Your Name Your Address (Including Zip Code) Your Phone Number Your E-Mail Date Name of Concerned Individual Dear Ms. Andrea Miller, This is with reference to the article in the New York Times dated February 4, 2011 that cited the potential employment opportunities in your organization, particularly in the editing department. With this article and after perusing through your company’s website, I have been familiarized with the impeccable quality of work you have produced, and I would like to see myself as a part of the organization in the near future. I have completed a Bachelor’s of Arts in Literature from the New York University with a specialization in Shakespearean works. I also aim at attaining a Master’s degree in the same field after getting some suitable work experience. I have been the editor of the university magazine, Livewire, for the year 2009 – 2010. It has been a job that has given me suitable insight into the intricacies of editing and publishing, an experience I believe that will only be enhanced by finding employment at your esteemed organization. I have enclosed my resume with this letter that will give you detailed information regarding my education, experience, and skills. I would appreciate it if I could meet with you and discuss any employment opportunities based on my qualification, in detail. You may contact me at any time on the aforementioned contact number or e-mail address. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you at the earliest. Sincerely, (Your Signature) Your Full Name (Typed) |
Make the most of the tips and sample provided here, so that you can get your dream job. Good luck!