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How to Write a Job Application Cover Letter
Writing a cover letter is essential when applying for jobs. This is the perfect way to express how your specific skills are relevant to the open position. Wow your future employer with this simple cover letter example format.
Write a First Draft
Writing a first draft makes your letter concise and professional, states The Balance Careers. Organize your thoughts by making a list of what you’re trying to convey. Make sure you prioritize certain aspects like your previous job experience and why you would be a good fit for the position. Clearly state what position you’re interested in and why. Think about why you’re applying and what caught your eye about this specific position. Your cover letter will be easier to write after your thoughts are collected and organized.
Customize Your Salutation
When writing a salutation, make sure you know who you are writing to. Is this person the owner of the company or a Human Resources administrator? If you’re not sure, research the company to find out. Addressing your cover letter to a specific person shows initiative and attention to detail. After your salutation, start your letter with a short introduction of yourself. This gives future employers insight into who you are and the purpose of your cover letter.
Write Intentionally
Your cover letter should be no more than one page, so keep your points brief. Clearly state what position you are interested in and why. Explain why you are a good fit for the company because of your past job experience. If you have no similar job experience, let the employer know why you are changing career paths. Expand on your skills and give specific examples of how that skill set helped you at your last position. Name projects you’ve worked on and show results.
Close Your Letter
End your cover letter with a brief sentence and sign off. Thank the employer for their time and express your interest towards the job again. Let them know you’ll follow up with them if you do not hear back within a week and leave your contact information. Sign off with a professional farewell and leave room for a signature if sending a hard copy.
Edit and Proofread
As you finish writing your cover letter, make sure you take time to edit and proofread your document. Make sure it’s structured in a professional format with the company’s information, the salutation and introduction, the body of the letter, a brief closing sentence and farewell. Check for spelling and grammar mistakes to ensure a formal result. Make sure all names are spelled correctly, as well.
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How To Write a Letter of Intent for a Job With Examples
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- Why Write a Letter of Intent?
What to Include in a Letter of Intent
Tips for writing a letter of intent, letter of intent for a job template, letter of intent example, email letter of intent sample.
Image by Marina Li é The Balance 2019
If you’re job searching, you may have spotted a few online job postings that ask for a letter of intent – but what does that mean? In this context, a letter of intent is similar to a cover letter . It includes information on why you are qualified for the position.
You should write a letter of intent when an employer requests one in a job listing. Send this letter in addition to your resume and other required application materials.
But you can also write a letter of intent when you want to express interest in working for a company that does not have any specific jobs listed. You can use this letter to explain why you would be a good fit for the organization, should an appropriate role come up. In this situation, a letter of intent is similar to an inquiry letter , also called a letter of interest .
Explain what type of work you are interested in – for example, maybe you are looking for a managerial position or a position in a certain department – but don’t get too specific.
Whether you are submitting a letter of intent for a specific job or are simply expressing your interest in working for a company, make sure your letter is well written, professional, and shows why you are a good fit for the company.
Why Write a Letter of Intent?
Letters of intent are used as a means of introduction to personalize your application and connect the hiring manager to your resume . They make it easy for the recruiter or employer to see exactly what your qualifications are and what you can bring to the table that other applicants cannot.
A well-written letter will help your application get noticed and provide the employer with details on why you're a strong candidate and should be considered. A good letter can help you land an interview .
Salutation Begin with a professional salutation . Find out the name of the employer or hiring manager, and include it in your opening. If you do not know to whom you should address the letter, call the office and ask.
Body Paragraph 1: Introduction Begin your letter by introducing yourself and explaining why you are writing. If you are responding to a specific job listing, say so. Otherwise, simply explain that you are interested in working for the company.
You can explain what type of work you are interested in – for example, maybe you are looking for a managerial position or a position in a certain department – but don’t get too specific.
Body Paragraph 2: Highlight Relevant Skills This is where you connect your skills and abilities to the job listing . Take the time to carefully review the job description and the requirements listed in it. Mention one or two important requirements of the job, and explain how you meet those requirements. Provide specific examples from your past work experiences.
If you are “cold calling” the company , explain how your skills would make you a good fit for the company. The closer you can match your credentials to the job requirements or the company’s needs, the better your chance of getting chosen for a job interview.
You might break this section into two paragraphs, depending on the number of skills you mention.
Body Paragraph 3: Call to Action Conclude your letter with a brief paragraph on how you will follow up. If the job listing says not to follow up, simply state that you look forward to hearing from the employer.
Closing End with a professional closing such as “Best” or “Sincerely.” If you are submitting a printed letter, include a handwritten signature followed by your typed name. If you are emailing the letter, conclude with your email signature.
Use the appropriate format. Use business letter format for your letter. Begin with your contact information, the date, and the employer’s contact information.
When sending an email, include a clear subject line. If you decide to send your letter in the body of an email, be sure to include a concise subject line that explains why you are emailing . If you are applying to a specific job, include your name and the job title. If you are cold calling, include your name and a phrase like “Job Inquiry” or “Marketing Expert Looking to Share Expertise.”
If you decide to send the letter via email, you also do not need to include any contact information or the date at the top. Instead, include your contact information in the email signature.
Research the company. Before writing, be sure to research the company to get a sense of the company’s culture , its mission, and its needs. This is especially important if your letter is a cold call. You need to explain how you would add value to the company, and you can only do this if you know what the company is looking for.
Don’t rehash your resume. Don't simply rehash your resume. Instead, pick out your strongest qualifications and highlight them. Your goal is to showcase your best credentials to the employer so that they will be persuaded to read your resume, not to provide a full career history.
Consider using bullet points. A good strategy for formatting your letter of intent is to include a bulleted section that highlights your qualifications for the job. The bullets will help to make your qualifications “pop” on the page, immediately drawing attention to the skills and expertise you offer. A careful use of boldface can also help to catch the hiring manager’s eye.
Keep it short. Your letter should be no longer than a page. If you write a longer letter, the hiring manager will not likely read it.
Proofread your letter. Don’t forget to thoroughly proofread your letter for spelling, grammar, and formatting errors. Consider asking a friend or family member to read it over before you submit it. Your letter needs to be professional and polished.
This is a sample letter of intent for applying to a job. Download the letter of intent template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online).
Olive Applicant 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 555-555-5555 olive.applicant@email.com
September 1, 2018
James Lee Head Librarian Acme University 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321
Dear Mr. Lee:
I am writing to express my strong interest in the position of library aide at Acme University, as listed on Monster.com. I am a recent college graduate with extensive library experience and a record of excellent written and oral communication. I believe I would be an ideal fit for this position at your organization.
I am skilled at communicating effectively with different people across various platforms. In my position as an administrative assistant at Longmont Library, I greeted dozens of patrons each day on the phone and in person. I also answered patron queries via email and social media. I received recognition from the circulation department head for my friendly demeanor, patience, and ability to communicate professionally with all patrons.
I am passionate about staying up to date with the latest library best practices. I have two years of experience working with some of the most widely used library management software, including Ex Libris and Koha. I am also familiar with the latest OCLC input standards.
I believe my experience, communication skills, and interpersonal abilities would make me a strong fit for this position. I look forward to speaking with you more about my qualifications.
Olive Applicant
Cold Call Email Example
Subject: Introduction Briana Applicant
Dear Mr. Lee,
Throughout my 15 years of experience in sales and sales management, I have always been impressed with your company’s reputation for exemplary customer service and your excellent sales record. I believe my experience and sales knowledge would make me an asset to Acme Sales.
Qualifications and skills I bring to the table include:
- 10 years’ progressive experience in retail sales management, consistently triggering year-over-year sales increases by more than 15% for each year of tenure.
- Proven leadership and teambuilding talents , successfully training and guiding teams of 20+ sales representatives to new levels of sales achievement.
- Keen analytical and strategic planning skills leveraged to control inventory/costs, reduce churn, and maximize sales productivity.
I would love to speak with you about how I can contribute to the sales team at XYZ Company. I will call you next week to arrange a time to discuss my qualifications further. I look forward to speaking with you.
Briana Applicant
Write a Letter of Intent to Express Your Interest in a Company: Some employers will ask for a letter in job postings. In other cases, you may send a letter of intent to a company with no current job openings.
Don’t Rehash Your Resume: Your letter should be a sales pitch. It should complement your resume and generate interest in you as a candidate.
Be Professional: Use business letter format and be sure to proofread your letter before you send it.
U.C. Davis. " Write an Effective Cover Letter/Letter of Intent ." Accessed Jan. 31 2020.
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Job Letter of Intent Template | Samples
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Updated January 23, 2023
A job letter of intent is attached to a resume and serves as an introduction to the job and company for the applicant. The goal is to express genuine enthusiasm for the company’s mission while providing a clear representation of why the candidate would be well-suited for a position. Examples of relevant work experience and education are encouraged, as are reasons for why the applicant identifies with the company’s purpose and practices. For example, a letter of intent for a kitchen position at an organic restaurant might include admiration for the chef, a history of being an advocate for organic foods, sympathy for the restaurant’s cause, experience at previous like-businesses, and any culinary education or degrees the applicant may have received.
Job Letter of Intents – By Type
- to Continue Working
- Job/Department Transfer
- Intent to Hire (from an employer)
- Maternity Leave
- Nursing Position
- Physician Position
- Promotion (job)
- Resignation
- School Position
- Teaching Job
Cover Letter vs Letter of Intent
A cover letter and a letter of intent serve very similar purposes but vary in their approach. Both are used to enhance a resume, provide an example of relevant skills and experiences, and show sincere interest in the company. The difference lies in the specificity of the interest; a cover letter is used to apply for an available position within a company, whereas a letter of intent is used, primarily, to show interest in working for the business in general. The skillset described in the LOI will include skills that could apply to a number of positions within the company. It is common that a letter of intent gets sent into newer companies that have a defined purpose but fewer defined roles.
Job Letter of Intent – Sample 1
JOB LETTER OF INTENT Karen Clarke 34 Mulaney St, Pittsfield, MA 45378 [email protected] (555) 678-9273 Date: March 23 rd , 2014 Ron Bernstein Editor in Chief The Chicago Tribune Dear Mr. Bernstein, I am contacting you to express my sincere interest in working in the newsroom of the Chicago Tribune. I was born and raised in Chicago and have fond memories of my father reading the entirety of your paper every Sunday morning; a ritual he maintains to this day. Following my studies and professional success in Massachusetts, I have decided to return home to be closer to my family. I would consider it an honor to contribute to your esteemed publication should a position become available. I studied journalism at Emerson College to which I received a full scholarship. I maintained a 3.75 GPA during my undergrad before mastering in journalism at the same instituation. My success as a student enabled me to land a job as a reporter at The Berkshire Eagle where my natural curiosity and my ability to adapt under stressful conditions to meet deadlines quickly gained the attention of the editor in chief. He soon promoted me to the editorial assistant position and I was able to continue to exercise my organizational skills but learn further the intricacies of digital media and publishing. I demanded perfection of myself and my colleagues, and this enabled my superiors to promote me to news editor, a position at which I’ve been operating for the past 4 years. I was able to thrive in the newsroom during my time at The Berkshire Eagle. The Chicago Tribune is an honorable publication; “an American Newspaper for Americans.” I believe that I can be of service to the news team and to my country should you give me the opportunity to work alongside your staff. Please do not hesitate to contact me should you require more information. Sincerely, Karen Clarke [Signature]
Job Letter of Intent – Sample 2
JOB LETTER OF INTENT Geoffrey Calmer 92a-134 Street, Brooklyn, NY [email protected] , (555) 788-9234 Date: June 30th, 2019 Jean Bernard Executive Chef Europea Dear Chef Bernard, My name is Geoffrey Calmer, and I am writing to express my sincere interest in working in your kitchens at the esteemed Europea. I had the pleasure of dining at your establishment many years ago in my first year of culinary school, and it singlehandedly shifted my perspective on what it means to master the culinary arts. Your creativity, bravery, and mastery in the kitchen is something I have long desired to witness and learn from firsthand. I would consider it a genuine privilege to work under you in any capacity. I graduated from the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in 2006 and was able to secure a position as a commis chef at La Table D’Eugene. Under the guidance of Chef Richard Bieunais, I was educated as grillardin, garde manger, friturier, and finally, saucier. I consider my experience there invaluable as they approach their farm-to-table tasting menu with the same philosophy you employ at Europea. After my seven years at La Table D’Eugene, I returned to New York and secured a position as sous chef at Aquavit, where I worked under David Carousel for a total of four years. In this Michelin 2-star kitchen, I sharpened my skills as a leader and as a chef. I have been fortunate enough to learn from excellent and daring chefs, both of whom I sought out specifically to prepare myself for the chance to one day work at Europea. It would be my distinct honor to be able to learn from you and cook in your kitchen. I believe I have honed my skills to a point where I can be of service to your restaurant. I am fully aware of the many years it takes to become to master the culinary arts, and I humbly ask for the chance to learn under your guidance. Please, do not hesitate to contact me at any time. Thank you very much for your consideration. Sincerely, Geoffrey Calmer [Signature]
Job Letter of Intent – Sample 3
JOB LETTER OF INTENT Mary-Anne Rose 734-86th St, Seattle, WA [email protected] , (555) 786-9263 Date: September 12th, 2017 Vincent Chang Chief Marketing Officer Organic Foods Co. Dear Vincent, My name is Mary-Anne Rose and I am writing you to submit my resume in hopes of joining your marketing team. Organic Foods Co.’s steady growth towards becoming the leading natural and organic grocery store in Washington State is in no small part to the marketing team. Their ability to garner sympathy for the company’s vision of a sustainable future for future generations is nothing short of miraculous, and I would love the opportunity to bring my expertise and growth to continue spreading your message. I have 15 years of hands-on sales and marketing experience in a variety of positions. After receiving my bachelor’s degree from NYU majoring in marketing and environmental studies, I joined the marketing team at Farmigo. This successful startup’s mission was to connect farmers to community members and deliver fresh, organic, locally grown fruits and vegetables to consumers. From 2009-2012, we helped our local famers deliver their produce to over three thousand pick up locations. Following my time with Farmigo, I took my talents to Starbucks where I was hired on as the marketing manager of the brand and marketing team. There, I lead the team in developing new marketing strategies and capabilities to deliver a connected and holistic brand experience. While I excelled at this position, and delivered successful campaigns for a number of new products, I longed to work for a company that shared my values and enabled me to apply the entirety of my education. Due to my passion for your mission statement and my success in the field, I believe that I would be a perfect addition to your marketing team. Please contact me should you require more information. Sincerely, Mary-Anne Rose [Signature]
How to Write a Job Letter of Intent
Download : Adobe PDF , MS Word (.docx) , OpenDocument (.odt)
Step 1 – Save The Job Letter Of Intent Template To Your Machine
This template, a correspondence which states your intention to gain employment, can be worked on as a PDF, Word, or ODT file by using the buttons under the image to access the desired file then downloading it for your use. When you are ready to issue this correspondence, locate it in the folder you saved it to, then open it.
Step 2 – Introduce This Letter With Your Return Address
Step 3 – Dispense The First Formal Date Of Your Intent
Step 4 – Report The Address Of The Potential Employer
Step 5 – Greet The Potential Employer
Step 6 – Introduce Yourself and State Your Intention
Step 7 – Discuss Your Career History And Education
Step 8 – Close Your Letter By Ensuring The Employer Can Contact You
Step 9 – Prove Your Intent By Signature
Step 10 – Attach Your Printed Name To Your Signature
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How To Write A Letter Of Intent For A Job (With Examples)
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- Letter Of Intent
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- What Is a Letter of Intent?
How to Write a Letter of Intent for a Job
Examples of letters of intent, letter of intent vs. cover letter, letter of intent tips, letter of intent faq, final thoughts.
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Summary. To write a letter of intent start strong with a greeting to the correct person and briefly explain why you are writing. You should explain why you would be a good match for the company and a work area that you are interested in. Be sure to focus on your accomplishments in your letter. If you’ve ever wanted to work for a specific company but can’t find a job listing you want, you might want to consider sending in a letter of intent to the company. We’ll cover precisely what a letter of intent is, provide tips for writing one, and tie it all together with some sample letters of intent. Key Takeaways: A letter of intent is separate from a and knowing the difference between the two can help you successfully land the job. When writing a letter of intent, you want to have a strong introduction, explain why you want to work for the company, and follow up with them. Make sure to do research on the company before sending the letter and figure out who to send it to. What Is a Letter of Intent?
A letter of intent is a document you send a company to state your intentions to work for them. You might have a specific role you’d like, but they’re more often used to express interest in any opportunity that the company has for you.
A letter of intent is more generalized than a cover letter and is often used when applying for a specific company versus a specific job. A well-written letter of intent creates a positive impression on your potential employer.
A letter of intent is sent in addition to your resume and cover letter.
When to use a letter of intent include:
At job fairs
Freelance work
Contract work
A letter of intent is used to help put some personality and a human touch to your resume. It allows hiring managers to connect your resume to you as a real potential worker versus just a piece of paper with dates on it.
So even though this may be a more generic version of a cover letter , don’t make it boring.
Start off strong. Make sure to start a letter of intent with a greeting to the correct person.
Try to avoid using terms like “ hiring manager ,” “talent acquisition committee,” or the company name. Try to find out who these letters go to and use that name for the greeting.
Write a flawless introduction. Introduce yourself and briefly explain why you are writing.
If you are writing to simply show an interest in working for the company, explain that in the introduction and the types of jobs you are interested in, but don’t get too specific about the details.
The more generalized it is, the easier it will be for hiring managers to consider you for different positions that may come up in the company.
Explain why you’re a great match. Next go into detail about how you specifically would be a good match for the company, a work area you are interested in, or if possible, the specific job you are applying for.
Mention critical skills you are proficient in that are relevant to the position or type of position you are applying for.
You can use bullet points for this to make it stand out more if you are emailing the company to show your general interest in working there, instead of applying for an established job posting.
The follow-up and conclusion. Explain how you will follow up with them, end with a call to action, or simply write that you’re excited to hear from them soon.
Then close with a professional closing and a signed name.
Ready to see how to put all of this together? Check out the following two examples:
Email Example
Subject: Erin Summers Job Applicant Dear Mr. Flint, My name is Erin Summers and I am a motivated recent graduate from the University of Virginia seeking mechanical engineering positions at Six Flags. Growing up in a family that visited a Six Flags park multiple days a year, roller coasters and mechanical fair rides have always been a passion of mine. I have many of the skills and experience necessary to effectively be an engineer at your company: Summer internship experience at Carowinds Park Double major in mechanical engineering and physics with honors in both degrees Captain of the robotics team at UVA Semester-long internship at Disney World, during which I helped modify older rides to ensure quality and safety of the ride Thank you for taking the time in reading my email and I look forward to hearing from you soon about opportunities at Six Flags. Sincerely, Erin Summers
Letter Example
Erin Summers 120 Main Street. Charlottesville, VA 24404 555-555-5555 [email protected] May 4, 2019 Colton Flint Operations Manager Six Flags Six Flags Park Office Town, State Zip Code Dear Mr. Flint, I am writing to express my interest in working for Six Flags America. I have completed the general application for Six Flags and am seeking entry-level employment as a mechanical engineer with your company. I have been an avid theme park customer for as long as I can remember, often visiting a Six Flags theme park with my family multiple times each year as a child. My fascination with roller-coasters and mechanical rides resulted in my perusal and completion of mechanical engineering and physics degrees at the University of Virginia. I would be a great fit for your company because of my experience with the theme park industry. Not only do I have years of experience as a customer, but I also have several technical internship experiences, including a summer working with Carowinds and a semester working with Disney. Transferable skills from these internships and from working as a captain of the university’s robotics team include project management, team building, and working with diverse populations, as well as project design, testing, and implementation. In addition to my relevant skills, my enthusiasm for the products and creating a great customer experience would make me a great fit for working at Six Flags. Thank you for taking the time to consider my application and I look forward to discussing my skills and experiences in more detail with you soon. Best, Erin Summers
A letter of intent is a good resource to use when applying to companies with generalized applications. It is also used to show your interest in working for a specific company if they do not currently have any job offerings listed.
For example, you absolutely love Disney and really want to work for the company, because you value working for the company so much. You don’t particularly care what job you have there, as long as it utilizes your skills and education.
This is a great scenario to apply for a new job with a letter of intent.
A Cover Letter is a document you send with your resume that provides additional information about skills and experience. This is usually sent for a specific job and includes details of that specific job.
This letter explains your resume in more detail and is the first impression a hiring manager has of you.
When writing your letter of intent, keep the following tips in mind:
Format your letter correctly. As far as format goes, letters of intent are identical to cover letters . Use proper business letter format and keep it short — three to four paragraphs and 250 words is the max the most hiring mangers like to see.
Research the company . Before you ever start drafting your letter of intent, you should dig into the company’s culture, values, and mission. If you’re taking a shot in the dark with this letter, you need to drive home how you can be valuable. The best way to come across as valuable is to know what the company values.
Focus on accomplishments . This goes for resumes, cover letters , and interviews as well. Always quantify your achievements when you can. What can you do for this company and how have you demonstrated an ability to do this in the past?
Decide on bullet points or paragraphs. Think about how you want to sell yourself as a job seeker. If you can list four major accomplishments in short bullet points, you’ll grab the recruiters attention quickly.
Talk about why you’re interested in them. That research you did on the company beforehand is good for deciding on a tone and describing your value. But it’s also nice to compliment the company in your letter of intent.
If you’re so keen on working for them, you should be able to come up with one or two reasons why they stand out as your ideal place to work.
Don’t copy-paste your resume. This goes for cover letters as well. The point of these extra letters is that you can come alive a bit more on the page . A resume is great for checking off qualifications and experience levels, but it doesn’t communicate a lot about what it’s like to work with you.
Give hiring managers a glimpse of what makes you special as a job seeker. If you’re perfect for the job (or a job), you’re more likely to be called in for an interview.
Make your subject line pop. If you’re sending a cold email, you need the hiring manager or recruiter to open your document to stand any chance at all.
Ensure that your subject line communicates exactly why you’re writing. “(Job Title) Inquiry” or “(Field) Expert Looking for Opportunities.” Whatever you think gives your letter the best chance of being opened.
What is a letter of intent for?
A letter of intent is a letter or document that you send to a company to state your intentions to work for them. This letter is more generalized than a cover letter and is used when applying for a specific company instead of a specific job. A letter of intent can be used at job fairs, for freelance work, or contract work.
When should you send a letter of intent?
You should send a letter of intent when you want to show an employer that you are interested in working for their company. This can happen if there are no job listening or when an employer requests it in the job listing. You should send this letter along with your resume and any other required application materials.
How long should my letter of interest be?
A letter of interest should be one to two pages long. Ideally your letter should be between 400 and 800 words ranging from three to four paragraphs. Be sure to proofread your letter before sending it.
Not too difficult, right? A letter of intent is the first glimpse the company has of you, so make sure it makes a good impression.
Be wary of grammatical mistakes and superfluous language that makes it read as if you are simply switching out company names in each letter.
Make each letter of intent unique to each job.
Now that you know how to write a letter of intent and know the difference between a letter of intent and a cover letter, you can write yours with confidence.
A well-written, interesting letter of intent will push you in front of many applicants — so get writing.
UC David – Write an Effective Cover Letter/ Letter of Intent
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Heidi Cope is a former writer for the Zippia Career Advice blog. Her writing focused primarily on Zippia's suite of rankings and general career advice. After leaving Zippia, Heidi joined The Mighty as a writer and editor, among other positions. She received her BS from UNC Charlotte in German Studies.
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Topics: Apply For Jobs , Job Application Tips
How to Write A Perfect Letter of Intent for a Job (With Examples)
Updated January 14, 2023
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A letter of intent is used when submitting unsolicited job applications or inquiries to companies you would like to work for. They are a means of introducing yourself to potential employers and convincing them to read your resume.
A good letter of intent will spell out your key skills and accomplishments , and explain why you are a great fit for the company to which you are applying. Note that a letter of intent is not a cover letter.
What Is a Letter of Intent and How Is It Different from a Cover Letter?
Admittedly, letters of intent and cover letters are very similar. Both will introduce you as a job candidate, and both require you to outline your skills and relevant experience.
There is a key difference, and it lies in the context in which you are writing the letter.
A cover letter is used to enhance your application for an advertised job listing, and the content is geared towards how your skills can be applied to the specific requirements of the job.
A letter of intent is intended to communicate your general interest in working for or with a company. They can be used as a networking tool to help you open a line of communication with potential employers.
They also tend to be more in-depth than a cover letter, and can include things like your education, your skills and experience, and your future goals.
When Will You Need to Write a Letter of Intent?
You should write a letter of intent in the following circumstances:
When making a general application to a company at which you want to work.
The employer has requested one on the job listing.
When making general applications at a job fair .
When applying to an academic institution .
When inquiring about a potential business partnership .
Structuring Your Letter of Intent
1. salutation.
You should always write your letter of intent in formal business English . Therefore, you should address your letter to a specific person, using the salutation ‘Dear [name]’.
If you do not have a specific name, you will be expected to undertake your own research to find one. Here are some tips for researching your recipient:
Go to the company’s ‘About Us’ or ‘Contact’ page on its website and locate a list of the company’s employees and their contact details.
Check the company’s LinkedIn page for connected employees and find the person with the most relevant job title.
Call the company and ask to whom your letter of intent and resume should be sent.
If you still cannot find a specific recipient, address your letter to a particular role or department. For example, ‘Dear Recruitment Manager' or ‘Dear Human Resources Department'.
Alternatively, you can use ‘To Whom It May Concern’ . However, some people view this salutation as outdated, so it should only be used as a last resort.
2. Introduction
The first paragraph of your letter should be used to introduce yourself . Make sure you include your reason for writing ; for example, you are interested in working for the company.
Example introduction:
‘Dear [name]: I am writing to express my interest in a position within your Marketing team. I am a Marketing Manager with five years’ experience overseeing direct marketing campaigns. I believe my skills will make me a valuable addition to your team.’
3. Your Skills and Accomplishments
You should dedicate the bulk of your letter to what makes you great, and how you can apply your skills and experience for the benefit of the company.
Which Skills/Experience Should You Mention?
Letters of intent tend to be more in-depth than cover letters. Therefore, if a skill is relevant, mention it. You can even include your hobbies, as long as they help to illustrate useful skills.
For example, you might mention how your love for building computers has helped you acquire skills in problem solving , research and perseverance.
Here is a list of things you could mention:
Your education , such as your bachelor’s degree, and your grade or projected grade.
Your work history and key accomplishments.
Soft skills such as communication, attention to detail, time management and creativity.
Technical skills such as computer skills, programming languages and analytical skills.
Your languages and level of proficiency.
Past volunteer work .
Back up Your Skills with Specific Accomplishments
A vague list of skills will not impress the recipient of your letter. You should always evidence your skills by providing specific examples of your experience and accomplishments.
For example:
‘I have excellent communication skills which I developed during my time as an Administrative Intern at [University]. Part of my role involved staffing the office's service desk and I was the first point of contact for all student inquiries. I always greeted people with a smile, and I received recognition from my colleagues for my ability to handle inquiries efficiently and confidently.'
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Explain How Your Skills Will Make You a Great Addition to the Company
The trickiest part of writing a letter of intent is demonstrating how you can use your skills for the benefit of the company.
With a cover letter, you will usually have a job description to which you can to link your skills. When approaching a company cold, you have no such luxury.
Instead, you should research the company and link your skills to their:
- Mission or commercial goals.
- Areas of expertise.
- Areas of innovation.
- Working culture.
Start your research by visiting the company’s ‘About Us’ page on its website, and also check the following:
- The company’s blog – This will be used to post recent projects, successes and interesting topics.
- Client case studies – Use these to get an idea of the company's policies regarding service delivery.
- LinkedIn – The company may post or share articles related to its areas of work and interest.
- Online employee reviews – See what current and former employees are saying about the company.
- News articles – Find out what the company has achieved recently that was newsworthy.
This research will allow you to link your skills to the work and successes of the company.
Sample answer:
‘In my position as a Paralegal at [commercial law firm], I run regular knowledge-sharing sessions. My colleagues and I discuss interesting cases we have managed and how we can manage similar cases. "I recently read your blog on the knowledge-sharing program you are implementing within your commercial litigation team, and I believe my communication and collaboration skills will make me a valuable addition to the team.'
4. Contact Details and Call to Action
Before you end your letter of intent, you should request the employer contacts you. Make sure you provide your email address and phone number. Sign off formally using your full name.
Other Things to Remember
1. write in formal business english.
Your letter of intent is a reflection of you as a working professional. It should, therefore, be written in business English. For example:
- After the salutation (‘Dear [name]’) use a colon instead of a comma, as this is considered more formal.
- Always sign off using ‘Yours Sincerely’ – when you have used their name or ‘Yours Faithfully’ – when you are writing to an unknown person.
- Avoid using colloquialisms or casual words such as, ‘I found the work really cool’.
2. Keep It Direct and to the Point
With the job market flooded with capable candidates, employers’ attention spans for each individual application are growing shorter. Bearing this in mind:
- Try to keep your letter to one page .
- Keep your sentences and paragraphs short .
- Use bullet points to list your skills and relevant experience.
3. Mention Why You Are Interested in the Company
As well as outlining how your skills make you a great fit for the company, you should state what interested you in the company in the first place.
What Not to Include
In addition to the many things you should include in your letter of intent, here are some things you should avoid:
A vague list of skills without any evidence . Always provide examples of past experience and accomplishments.
Why you left your previous jobs, particularly if you left for negative reasons . Now is not the time to talk about why you left your job; keep the focus on your desire to work for this particular company. No matter which stage of the recruitment process you are at, it is always a bad idea to be negative about your previous employer. For example,
‘I left my previous job because my manager was always undermining me and making me feel useless.’
A reiteration of your resume . A letter of intent gives you the opportunity to highlight your key skills and achievements , and to demonstrate what makes you the perfect addition to the company. Think of your letter of intent as your initial sales pitch, rather than providing a comprehensive breakdown of your work history.
Letter of Intent Example
Here's a sample letter of intent for job applications, to help you begin drafting your own. The structure will be similar for whatever industry your letter is geared towards.
[date] John Smith Recruitment Manager Film Company Ltd [Company address] Dear Mr. Smith: My name is Jenny Wren, and I am writing to inquire about the possibility of vacancies in Film Company Ltd’s animation team. I am in my junior year at [College], majoring in computer animation. I learned about your company through my college program. Your designs were used as a case study in my character design class, which inspired me to focus my study on developing my own character-driven short films. I am creative and dedicated to storytelling through digital art mediums. This was recognized last year when I came second in my college’s short film and animation competition with my film, ‘Life Online’, the story of a young boy who becomes addicted to internet chat rooms. I value teamwork and collaboration. I am the founder of my college’s animated short film club. Our activities include brainstorming ideas, drawing storyboards and then working as a team to create short films. We publish our work to our YouTube channel, where we have 65,000 subscribers. I have established technical skills in specialized animation software programs. I also have impeccable attention to detail, which helps me create flawless animations. I believe these skills and my passion for storytelling through animation would be of value to your company. I have attached my resume for your consideration and samples of my work can be viewed at [portfolio website]. If you would like to discuss my credentials further, please do not hesitate to contact me on [phone number] or [email address]. I look forward to hearing from you. Yours sincerely, [Your signature] Jenny Wren
Final Thoughts
This article has shown you how to draft your own letter of intent. To summarize, the key points covered were:
Understand the difference between a cover letter and a letter of intent: a letter of intent supplements a general application to a company you are interested in working at or with.
Write your letter in business English and always address your letter of intent to a specific person if possible.
Outline your key skills and accomplishments but don’t repeat your resume.
Don’t list skills without backing them up with specific experiences and accomplishments.
Relate your skills to the company’s goals and objectives. Make sure you research the company thoroughly before starting your letter.
Keep your letter to one page maximum.
Don’t mention why you left your previous job(s).
Ask the employer to contact you at the end of your letter.
Finally, remember that your letter of intent will be the employer’s first impression of you. Therefore, never treat it as an afterthought; it could be the first step to a new job.
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How to Write an Impressive Letter of Intent for a Job
Posted by Glassdoor Team
Career Advice Experts
Last Updated June 29, 2021
Guide Overview
An overview of the letter of intent for a job.
While many listings request a cover letter, a few ask a professional to send a letter of intent for a job. This document is also used by professionals to send unsolicited communications that express their interest in companies. As this networking tool can help you get hired, it's imperative to understand it and learn how to use it properly. Keep reading to learn about this document and the process for using it effectively.
What is the letter of intent for a job?
A letter of intent for a job is a document that professionals send companies that interest them regarding employment opportunities in the future. Unlike a cover letter, it does not specifically address a position. Typically, this is a general communication that declares a worker’s interest in working for a particular employer, highlights key skills and achievements, and discusses work experience. In relation to its format, it focuses on how the applicant’s qualifications align with the achievements, values, and other features of the company.
You can send this document via email or post. Additionally, you can deliver it to a professional contact in the organization. Employers and employees can enjoy several benefits from using this networking tool, such as:
Employer benefits
If you’re an employer, the benefits of requesting letters of intent or reviewing those sent to you by job seekers include:
- It enables you to identify motivated professionals. Most companies seek motivated workers to build an engaged workforce, and evaluating letters of intent can be a great way to find them.
- It enables you to find workers who address corporate requirements. Using a letter of intent can be particularly beneficial in the event the employer is unsure about which positions are necessary to fill the gaps in the company. Receiving letters of intent provides an opportunity to find people with the necessary skills and create jobs for them.
- It enables you to widen the pool of candidates. Requesting letters of intent gives a company the chance to extend its pool of talented job seekers from which new workers can be selected when necessary.
- It enables you to gauge your appeal among workers. A company focused on maintaining its appeal among the professional fields it recruits from can use the letters of intent it receives to monitor any changes to its brand image. Findings from this research can help the enterprise make any necessary changes in its policies to attract the best talent.
Learn more: How to Write a Proposal Letter: Tips and Sample
Employee benefits
This method of communicating with employers provides many advantages to workers, such as:
- It enables you to initiate a relationship. You can use your letter of intent as the means to connect with a successful company with an attractive work environment. Sending a persuasive communication that includes your qualifications helps you to make a positive impression on the head of the department in which you want to work. Consequently, you can develop a valuable professional contact.
- It helps you to stand out in the recruitment process. The letter can be used to engage the hiring manager of a company that is planning to recruit more workers but has not requested job applications. This gives you the chance to be one of the first people who is considered for a current or future job opening. Getting the timing right is important, and you can do so by asking your professional network about companies that are planning to recruit in the near future and sending your letters of intent accordingly.
- It helps you to get on the radar of your preferred companies. While you may know the companies you dream about working in, their hiring activities may not be concurrent with your job search. You can use a polished letter of intent for a job to send them your resume and lay the groundwork that can lead to interview requests in the future.
Learn more: How to Be a Team Player at Work
How to write a letter of intent that wins
For you to avail yourself of the power of the letter of intent for a job, it’s necessary to have a polished product that targets the right company. You can achieve this by following a process that helps you to use this networking tool effectively. Here are the steps you should use:
1. Do the necessary research
Begin the process of writing a letter of intent by learning about the companies that interest you. You can assess them based on factors like their reputation for being good employers, their training programs for workers in your profession, or the opportunities they offer for career advancement. Here are a few methods you can use to get this information:
- Check the company’s website, social media pages, and current news.
- Do an online search for employee testimonials or reviews of the company.
- Ask your contacts about the employer.
- Shadow a company employer to get an insider’s perspective of the company.
Based on your research, make a list of ten companies that interest you.
Learn more: How to Develop Interpersonal Skills
2. Choose companies that suit you
As you’re sending a communication that is unsolicited, it’s best to ensure you’re targeting a firm that best suits your values and vice versa. For example, if you value working independently and having flexible hours, approaching a traditional workplace that values managerial oversight and fixed hours is unlikely to work. It’s also necessary to choose a firm that suits your circumstances. Use the following checklist of questions to choose five suitable employers:
- Does the company culture appeal to you?
- Does the office setup work for you?
- What are the corporate achievements that resonate with you?
- Can you handle the commute cost-effectively?
- Are there jobs that match your qualifications and values at present?
- Are suitable jobs likely to be available in the near future?
- What can you contribute to the company?
3. Identify your best professional strengths
Make a list of your qualifications, including values, skills, academic credentials, work experience, and professional achievements, that best match the qualifications of each company, comprising its values, positions, and achievements. Keep in mind that instead of applying for a particular job, you’re demonstrating your suitability for a job in a specific company. Consequently, choose strengths that best align with what the firm is likely to seek in workers.
Learn more: Fast Learner Skills: Definition and Examples
4. Outline the letter of intent for a job
Use your research findings on the company and yourself to develop a structure for your letter that grabs the attention of the person who reads it. For example, including something current about the company in your opening paragraph could help you to achieve this. Your letter should have the following sections:
- Salutation: Address the letter to the head of the department you want to work in.
- Introductory paragraph: Include a strong opening line, your reason for writing the letter, and a statement that summarizes why you would be an asset to the company.
- Body paragraphs: Discuss the points you introduced in your introduction in detail.
- Final paragraph: Restate your motivation to join the company, keep a line of communication open, and thank the reader for their consideration.
- Closing: End the letter with a formal closing phrase and your name.
5. Complete your letter
Write your letter, edit it, and improve it. Aim to develop persuasive communication that expresses your motivation to work in the company, highlights your shared qualifications, and shows your skills.
Discover real interview questions asked for thousands of job titles
Letter of intent example
Use the following example to develop your letter of intent:
Dear Ms. Sawyer,
Making eco-friendly cleaning products is something I’ve wanted to do since I saw the disastrous effect a bleach spill had on the soil ecosystem of my mother’s yard. Getting my B.S. in Organic Chemistry and certification in Product and Industrial Design has given me the technical knowledge needed to build sustainably. Your latest product update featured in the Natural Products journal for the Green Cleaning range fueled my mission. I’m thrilled to apply to Green & Clean’s product and design team.
I can use my knowledge in 3D technical sketching, sustainability studies, and 2D and 3D CAD technologies to build products that have real-world sustainability impacts. I have the academic skills to use carbon-based, natural compounds to develop lifestyle products with a minimal or zero carbon footprint, which synchs with Green & Clean’s stellar mission.
I’m an engaged team player who enjoys collaborative and independent work. I’m passionate about building sustainable products, marketing them effectively to stakeholders, and joining your avant-garde team.
Please consider me for any entry-level role in your team in the future. I’m contactable at [email protected], and I’m looking forward to hearing from you.
Thank you for your time,
As discussed, a letter of intent offers several advantages, and it could lead to a new job . Use the process you learned in this article to develop a powerful letter that grabs the interest of a departmental head and advances your career.
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- Cover Letter
- Letter of Intent: Template & Writing Guide (With Examples)
Letter of Intent: Template & Writing Guide (With Examples)
You’d do a better job than all those applicants. But that new employer doesn’t know it—yet. Prove it with a letter of intent that knocks their socks off.
As seen in:
You’re frantically scrolling through Google and scratching your head. You’ve just read that your dream job opportunity asks candidates to write a letter of intent. What on earth is that?!
You’ve heard of cover letters. Are they the same as a letter of intent for a job? Is it a different type of letter? What does it include? Don’t worry, we’ll answer all of your questions. You’ll learn not only what is a letter of intent, but also how to write it and when to use it.
Either way, this guide will show you:
- A letter of intent template you can adapt to fit your job search.
- How to write a letter of intent for a job that makes you stand out in the mob.
- The three key parts you need to make your letter zing.
- Several letter of intent examples that will maximize your chance of getting hired.
Want to write your letter of intent fast? Use our cover letter builder. See 20+ cover letter templates and create your cover letter here.
Create your cover letter now
Sample Letter of Intent for a Resume— See more cover letter examples here .
What is a Letter of Intent?
A letter of intent is just a cover letter in most cases. It’s a 3–4 paragraph description of why you fit the job. It starts with a hook, shows a sampling of your achievements, and asks for the interview. In some cases, it can be used when there’s no job on offer. In that case it’s called a letter of interest.
What is the Purpose of a Letter of Intent?
The purpose of letters of intent is to get the hiring manager to notice us. A well-written resume helps a lot, but without an accompanying letter, it can seem like career spam. Conversely, if you’re applying to a job that hasn’t been advertised, write a letter of intent to kick off a relationship with the employer.
Let’s blow the doors off the other job candidates with a sample letter you can use:
Letter of Intent Template
Janet Metrick
Photographer, CPP
3093 Brown Avenue
Greer, SC 29650
803-840-7220
[email protected]
linkedin.com/in/janetzmetrick
Juanita Lanford
Marketing Director
Ansari Real Estate
4817 Algonquin Street
Dear Ms. Lanford,
As a skilled real estate photographer with 4+ years of experience creating over 9,000 stunning images of interiors and exteriors of million-dollar homes , I’m extremely interested in your photographer position at Ansari Real Estate. Your job posting says you’re looking for a strong leader who can deliver breathtaking real estate photos while also training photography assistants. I think you’ll be quite interested in my resume and especially these highlights:
As owner and photographer at Janet Metrick Photography, I’ve worked directly with two major realtor clients South Carolina and 200+ individual homeowner clients. I also trained a team of 4 assistant photographers in the best practices of real estate photography. I’m also a regular freelancer for Meredith Magazines, with dozens of images in Better Homes & Gardens and Home & Hearth Today. My equipment and skill set excel at capturing the tricky lighting balance between exteriors and interiors to provide a seamless image.
What draws me to Ansari Real Estate is your dedication to high-quality production. I’ve spent some time going through your website and print magazine, and I love the high standards you maintain. That said, I think my work can bring a new level of aesthetic perfection to your materials without adding extra cost. I’d be happy to meet with you next week to discuss how my technical ability and creativity can breathe new life into your website and print materials.
- Best regards,
What makes that letter of intent stand out among the piles of job applications? It’s the three important parts it covers. Let’s run them down, one by one. But first—
How to Write a Letter of Intent
To write a letter of intent, research the company or school. Find out what they want most from a successful candidate. Then get their attention in paragraph #1, with the fact about you that fits their needs the most. Show more proof of skills in paragraph #2, and why you like them in paragraph #3.
Need more detail? Check out the quick tips below.
Here’s how to write a letter of intent:
1. Choose the Right Letter of Intent Format and Layout
Here’s the first hurdle—get them to read your letter. Letter of intent format matters because a poorly-laid-out letter is a clue you’re not right for the position. To combat that, make sure your font, line-spacing, paragraph-spacing, and margins are all clean and business-friendly.
Again, a letter of intent is the same as a cover letter, so follow basic cover letter structure with these tips:
- Use a standard cover letter outline for your letter of intent, with 3–4 paragraphs and a professional sign-off.
- Set your LOI’s cover letter line spacing at 1.15 for a sharp, clean look.
- Fix your margins at one inch on every side—left, right, top, and bottom.
- You’ll want a cover letter font that’s easy to read and not too fancy. Use one like Arial, Helvetica, Didot, or Cambria. Those have been around the block with good results.
Read more: Professional Cover Letter Design
2. Research the Company Before You Write
What’s the single most important thing you can do to make your letter of intent stand out? Research the company. It sounds boring, but it’s the single reason some letters make eyes pop while others get yawns. Why? Because research is like showing listening skills —it proves you know your stuff.
You don’t have to spend an hour on this. In fact, limit your research time to 15 minutes so you don’t bog down your job search.
To research a letter of intent for a job, check out:
- The company’s mission statement
- The company website
- Media articles about the company’s challenges, successes, awards, and lines of business.
Letter of Intent Sample—Researching the Job
Here’s a sample job posting (for a software engineer), with key parts highlighted:
Now you know a lot about what the company’s perfect employee looks like. When you write your letter, it’ll be 10x stronger because you took the time to learn their needs.
Pro Tip: Don’t stop at researching the job ad. Read their mission statement, and consider reaching out to a few people at the company on LinkedIn to get information.
3. Find 3 Ways You Fit the Position
Are you the perfect employee for the job? You’d better be. If not, they’ll never hire you. But how can you prove it? Once you’ve researched the company, it’s time to think about the ways you fit. The secret? Be as specific as possible, with numbers-based accomplishments in the skills they’re looking for.
Let’s look at an example:
Let’s say the company wants a photographer skilled in real estate photography and training. Jot down your accomplishments as follows:
Sample of Letters of Intent—Finding Ways You Fit
- Conducted 300+ real estate shoots
- Created 9,000+ real estate images
- Trained 4 assistant photographers
- Wrote 5 articles about real estate photography
- CPP certified
- Commended 4x by managers for efficiency
- Cut shoot costs by 20%
Notice anything? We’ve highlighted the ones that match the job the best in green. We’ll use those in our letter of intent. The others are great too, but we only need the best few in our letter. We’ll save the rest for our resume.
Now that you’ve found the top few ways you fit the position, it’s time to write your letter.
You should always custom-fit your letter of intent to the job. See our guide: Everything You Need to Know About Cover Letters
4. Get Attention with a Strong First Paragraph
“I didn’t read your letter.” What an insult! But it’s all too common. Why? Because most letters of intent start out like this: “I’m writing to express my interest in blah blah blah.” Uh-oh. You’ve lost the hiring manager. She’s thinking about camping out on the lake later with her kids. Don’t do that!
To make sure they read your letter, engage them with a strong first sentence and first paragraph.
- A professional cover letter salutation . Use the manager’s name if you can find it. A real name outshines a To Whom It May Concern every time.
- The number of years you’ve done this job (3, 5, 7+, etc.).
- Your most impressive, company-fitting accomplishment. If they want someone who’s great at flipping pancakes and you’ve flipped ten million pancakes, there you go.
- The top few qualifications they need for the position. This shows the employer that you’re aiming at the right target.
- A nod to your resume, and to the highlights you’ll share in the next paragraph—to keep them reading.
Let’s see how that works:
Letter of Intent Example—First Paragraph
See the problem?
The first of those letter of intent examples sells it. It starts out with a stunning fact. Then it mentions the company by name, and moves on to what the company needs. Now the hiring manager knows you fit the job and understand the job.
But that first example falls flat. It sounds like a generic cover letter , it’s braggy, and therefore boring.
Read more: How to Begin a Cover Letter
5. Show Achievements in Your Letter of Intent
“We loved your letter of intent and had to talk to you!” Can you make the hiring manager say that? Yep. That happens in your second paragraph. That’s where you take the best few resume accomplishments that stick you to the job like duct tape. They have to fit the job requirements and make jaws drop.
To show achievements, go back to your research. Look at the best three (or so) accomplishments that bolt you to the job. Then talk about them in the second paragraph of your letter of intent for business.
Here’s how it’s done right and wrong:
Letter of Intent for Business Example—Second Paragraph
Wow. That second letter of intent sample actually shows an amazing photographer. So what’s wrong with it? Well—it’s got some great achievements. But it just doesn’t fit the job. You can almost hear the hiring team discussing it. “Yep, this one’s great, but that first one just fits our needs the best.”
Pro Tip: Do you have more than just a few achievements that really prove you fit the job? You can add another paragraph for those, right after paragraph #2.
Plus, a great letter of intent that matches your resume will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here. Here's what it may look like:
See more cover letter templates and start writing.
6. Explain Why You’re Interested in Them
“Okay, so you’re a good fit. But why us? Will you stick around? Or will you jump ship as soon as you find something better, with more pay?” Yes, employers think that way. To soothe their fears, you have to show why they’re important to you. That comes in the third paragraph of your letter of intent.
To show why you care about the position, you can choose from:
- A way the organization will help advance your career goals
- How they’ll help you use your favorite job skills
- Ways you fit the company’s mission statement (you researched this, remember?)
- Something else you like about the company
Let’s look at how that works:
Letter of Intent for a Job Example—Third Paragraph
Huge difference.
That first letter of intent sample has it all. It shows you know a thing or two about the company, and you have respect for it. But the second one is too one-size-fits-all. The employer knows by reading it that you don’t really care about her needs.
Pro Tip: The more interest you show in the company, the stronger your letter. There’s a vast body of research that confirms the reciprocity of liking .
7. End Your Letter of Intent by Asking for Action
Yes, you have to ask. At the end of your third paragraph, come right out and request the interview. But there’s a special way to do it so it doesn’t come off sounding needy. Namely—offer to trade something in return. Don’t think you have anything to trade? Of course you do.
At the end of your last paragraph, add a call-to-action like the next of your letter of intent examples:
Letter of Intent Samples—Call to Action
See the difference? The first of those letter of intent samples offers to trade information for the interview. The second looks like you copy-pasted it from any given letter on the internet.
Read more: Best Ways to End a Cover Letter
8. Sign off with a Professional Closing
This part’s easy. But get it wrong, and you’ll look sloppy. Your letter of intent should end like any business letter—with a sign-off, signature, and name and contact info.
You can end with:
- Kind regards,
- Best wishes,
Or other business-ready closings, then your name, written or digital signature, and contact info. Here’s an example:
Sign-Off in a Letter of Intent Example
What’s wrong with sample #2? Well—warm regards is a little too “huggy” for someone you’ve never met. And it’s missing your job title and closing contact information .
Read more: Modern Cover Letter Templates for Every Job
9. Create a Professional Heading for Your Letter of Intent
We’ve left the top of your letter of intent for last. You’ll need a header for it too, with address info and the date. Yes, you’ve got your contact info at the bottom. But—it’s customary to put it at the top as well. The header should look like any business letter or cover letter heading .
- Start at the top left with your name, job title , street address, and other contact info like your phone number, email address, and even your LinkedIn handle.
- Leave a blank line, then the date, and then another blank line. The date is important so the manager knows how fresh your letter of intent is.
- Add the hiring manager’s name, job title, company name, and street address too.
Letter of Intent Heading Example
That heading has everything you need to look professional.
Key Takeaway
Here’s how to write a letter of intent for a job:
- Start by researching the company. What does the job ad say about their needs? Also see their mission statement.
- Format your letter of intent just like a cover letter—with three paragraphs and 1-inch margins.
- Use your first paragraph to hook the reader fast with your #1 accomplishment.
- In paragraph two, add more achievements that show you fit the job like hand-in-glove.
- Write a call-to-action in the last paragraph of your LOI.
When making a resume in our builder, drag & drop bullet points, skills, and auto-fill the boring stuff. Spell check? Check . Start building a professional resume template here for free .
When you’re done, Zety’s resume builder will score your resume and tell you exactly how to make it better.
Questions? Concerns? We’re here for you. If you still have questions about how to write a letter of intent for a job that gets things rolling, drop me a line in the comments.
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How to write a letter of intent for a job [+ 2 samples]
Throughout your job search, you may have noticed that some job postings ask for a letter of intent with your application. Exactly what this means, and how it is different from a cover letter, may not be clear. In this article we will discuss letters of intent, their uses, and how they are different from cover letters.
Recommended links:
- Our collection of 500+ professional resume examples .
- Our gallery of 20+ downloadable resume templates .
- What is a letter of intent?
A letter of intent is a brief document, usually paired with a resume, that states your intention to work for a particular company. It should summarize your relevant skills and express why you are a good fit for that organization. Letters of intent are highly tailored to the company they are addressed to, and can be sent when requested by a job posting or independently.
Browse our gallery of resume examples here.
- What is the difference between a letter of intent and a cover letter?
Whereas cover letters are specific to an open position and tailored to suit the needs of that role, letters of intent tend to focus on the larger company. Instead of detailing why you are the best person for a job based on a job posting, a letter of intent will show your interest in the company as a whole by showing your respect for the company’s values, the relevant skills you have to contribute, and your ideas for how you could fit right in if hired. Even if the company does not have a position open right now, this enthusiasm is a great way to get your name in the running for the next one.
Suggested - Cover letter examples
- Why write a letter of intent?
Letters of intent are most often used by job-seekers when they are requested by a job posting. Cover letters are more common, but if a job posting specifically asks for a letter of intent you should be ready to write one.
You can also send a letter of intent when it hasn’t been requested to show your enthusiasm for a company. When you have a specific organization that you would like to work for but they aren’t hiring, a letter of intent is a great way to make yourself known. The hiring manager may not have a position open for you now, but with a good letter of intent that shows your personality and qualifications you will be at the top of their mind when they do.
Browse our gallery of resume templates here.
- Why do companies ask for letters of intent?
Letters of intent are most commonly asked for by small or new companies who do not have clearly defined roles like larger companies. Where a large company would likely be hiring for an established position with specific requirements, positions at newer companies are often flexible, with employees wearing many hats. A letter of intent allows you as the job seeker to express what experience you bring to the company and how you can create value in your own unique way. When the responsibilities of a role are not yet clearly defined, allowing applicants to define their niche is a great way for companies to get new ideas for what they need.
- What should I include in my letter of intent?
The contents of a letter of intent are flexible, as the specific skills or anecdotes you choose to highlight will depend on your experience and industry. However, you should still make sure that your letter contains everything you need to impress an employer. When you write your letter of intent, it can be useful to use a standard format to make sure it is readable and professional.
- Greeting. Begin your letter of intent with a polite salutation. If possible, find the name of the hiring manager or department head that you would like to reach so that you can address your letter to them directly. This information is likely available on the company’s website, or you can browse the company’s employee’s profiles on LinkedIn.
- Introduction. Open the body of your letter with a sentence or brief paragraph that introduces you, including your name and skillset, and what your intention is for the letter. This can be as simple as saying “My name is Sam Rogers. I am a recent graduate of NYU’s business program and I am writing to express my interest in your company,” though including more details, such as how you discovered the company, will better show your personality.
- Mirroring the language that the company uses will let them know that you share similar values. If you are writing in response to a job listing, you can use the key words found there to choose the skills you highlight. If you are sending the letter unrequested, use what you know about the company and your industry to choose the skills you emphasize.
- Be very clear about what level of experience you can bring and what type of responsibility you are looking for. If you are an experienced manager, you don’t want to write a great letter of intent only to be considered for an entry level role.
- Show that you are the right fit for the company, and show that you have the right attitude to make a difference. Explain what draws you to the company, why your skills are a match, and how you can contribute to company culture.
- Call to action. Before signing off, it is important to give the employer an easy way to follow up with you. This can be as simple as saying that you look forward to their response and leaving your number, or you can say that you will be following up yourself at a later date. Either way, if you want to hear from that employer again you must make sure they know that you would like to hear from them and how they can contact you.
- Closing. “Sincerely,” “Best,” “Cheers,’—use whichever sign-off best suits your personality, so long as it is professional and appropriate. Leave them with your name, email, phone number, and any online portfolios that may help, such as LinkedIn.
- Tips for writing a letter of intent
- Research the company. Before writing your letter, make sure you know your audience. Browse the company’s website and social media, and see if they have been featured in any news items. You will be much more able to describe your interest in the company if you really do know them well.
- Format your letter well. Use a readable, professional font, and keep paragraphs short and readable. No employer likes reading a huge block of text. VisualCV’s cover letter builder works great for both cover letters and letters of intent.
- Be brief. Your letter should not be longer than a page. Even if you are a great candidate, employers are unlikely to read much more than a page, if that.
- Proofread. Typos and spelling errors will leave a terrible first impression. No matter how perfect you are for the company, employers will find it difficult to look past spelling mistakes. It is important to read and reread your letter to check for errors, and if you are not a confident writer, you may even want to have a friend look it over for mistakes.
- Letter of Intent Sample #1
Dear Susan Williams,
My name is Rob Stanfield. I am a front-end developer and user experience specialist with 8 years of experience and I am writing to express my interest in working for the product team at TrueTeach. As the child of two teachers I understand the importance of education and I believe that educators deserve the best possible platform for delivering content online, and I think that TrueTeach can be that platform.
I am currently the UX team lead at the social media management start-up Dashbored, where I work with the product team to develop an efficient, customer-focused platform. Our user base has grown 300% in the time that I have been a part of this team, and as proud as I am of this business and the Dashbored community, I have always known that my career journey would lead me to education eventually. As an undergraduate, I volunteered at a local elementary school teaching introductory coding, and my master’s thesis focused on accessible content delivery for distance learning.
I am familiar with the tech stack used at TrueTeach and I believe strongly in the TrueTeach mission. My experience in product development and my passion for education make me an ideal fit for your team.
I would love to schedule some time to discuss my qualifications and the future of TrueTeach with you. I can be reached at [email protected] , or by phone at 555-5555. Thank you for your time.
Best, Rob Stanfield
- Letter of Intent Sample #2
Hello Caroline,
My name is Stephanie Ross and I am a marketing director with over 10 years experience in the startup, tech and SaaS space. I've spent the majority of my career building brands and exceptional customer experiences and I'd love to express my interest in discussing opportunities to join the marketing team at Hubspot.
From the outside looking in at the growth at Hubspot over the last several years, the company has looked after your customers above everything else - this is a mission-driven organization and brand that aligns perfectly with my beliefs on marketing and customer experiences. From early on in my career, I've always approached marketing strategy from an empathetic position to make sure that the experience we've created at the companies I've worked for puts the customer's needs first and really getting to the root of what problems they need help solving.
I pride myself on being a critical and open-minded thinker and with extreme attention to detail. My approach to building marketing strategies always starts with speaking with and learning from the customers directly, as well as building tight-knit relationships with other teams across the organization. I believe it's critical to connect with and learn from sales, engineering, support and others to understand what their internal challenges are to find synergies that marketing may be able to help solve.
I'd love to chat further with you and answer any questions you may have, and discuss opportunities on your team. I'm available by phone at 555-555-5555 or by email at [email protected] . Thank you very much for your consideration and look forward to speaking soon.
Sincerely, Stephanie Ross
- How do you Start a Letter of Intent?
Here’s how you can start a letter of intent for a job in the right way:
- Select the right layout for the letter.
- Start the letter of intent with a professional salutation.
- Then, start with an introductory paragraph
- How do you Introduce yourself in a letter of intent?
When writing a letter of intent for a job, start writing your letter by informing the reader who you are and why you want to apply for this job. A good example is “My name is Jane. I am a quality assurance lead at FrontEnd Co. with over 11 years of experience…”
- How do you Write a Simple Letter of Intent?
To write a simple letter of intent you should:
- Write the letter in a very easy to understand language.
- Avoid using hyperboles in your writing.
- Make sure to add a date, address of the recipient and your address
- Ensure that you add a salutation followed by an introduction.
- Briefly talk about your skills and have a final call to action.
- Add a closing to your simple letter of intent
- What is an example of a letter of Intent?
Dear hiring manager,
My name is Jane. I am a quality assurance lead at FrontEnd Co. with over 11 years of experience. I am writing this letter to express my interest in working for the digital experience team. I am extremely passionate about end user experiences and developing a world class proactive QA program at ThingsPort would be a dream come true.
In my current role as a quality assurance lead, I manage a team of 10 quality assurance professionals who support digital transformation across 10 business units at FrontEnd Co. I worked with technical, business and design teams to establish QA processes to oversee agile deployment of business transformation projects. Writing QA documentation from scratch and improving line of communication with the dev team are some of the most rewarding aspects of my work here.
Processes followed at ThingsPort and the technology used is well within my expertise. And my experience of managing QA for 10 business transformation projects makes me an ideal fit for the QA team at FrontEnd Co.
I would love to schedule a call to discuss my goals and past relevant experience in depth with you. I can be reached at [email protected] or at 555-555-5555. Thank you for your time.
Sincerely, Jane
Madison Norton
VP Marketing & Resume Expert
Madison is the VP Marketing and General Manager at VisualCV . He's a seasoned marketing leader, resume writing and career marketing expert and now helping people grow their own career marketing strategies to build a career they love.
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Letter Of Intent For A Job – 17+ Word, PDF Documents Download!
A letter of intent for a job is somewhat the same as a cover letter that one sends with their resume . This employment letter of intent would explain your interest in a particular organization where you are applying for a job. It would also offer insights into your career objectives or goals or skills that will make you stand out from the rest. Your letter of intent for a job vacancy will offer a quick idea of your sample resume and your abilities to your prospective employer. If you don’t know how to format a proper LOI for a job, take to the sample letter of intent for job templates . You’ll find professional samples for your intention in applying to a department promotion, short contract , graduate school, job interview, formal training, vacant position, and much more. You can also see more on Resume Letters .
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What Actually Is a Letter of Intent (and How Is it Different From a Cover Letter)?
Hot jobs on the muse.
You scan a job posting and everything looks normal (responsibilities and requirements, check, lots of jargon related to your field, check), until you come across the following: Please submit a resume and letter of intent.
Huh. That’s a phrase you’ve never seen before: “letter of intent.” Do they mean like a cover letter , but in a different, slightly confusing way?
Well, yes and no. There are plenty of similarities between the two, and also several differences. Here’s what you need to know about letters of intent.
What Is a Letter of Intent?
To play off the name, a letter of intent (also sometimes called a letter of interest ) is about stating your intentions to work for a particular company. There may be a specific role you (or the employer) has in mind, but more often you’re interested in tossing your name into the hat for any opportunities an organization may offer.
“In my experience, I’ve seen an intent letter used usually when there’s not a specific job that a candidate is interested in applying for,” says Kaila Kea , a career coach on The Muse. So you’d probably write one if you’re submitting a general application to an organization you’re a major fan of that isn’t necessarily hiring for your dream job just yet.
How Does a Letter of Intent Differ From a Cover Letter?
It can be easy to confuse a cover letter with a letter of intent. In her experience working with job seekers, Kea differentiates them this way: “Intent letters tend to be a bit more company focused—you’re talking a little more about the employer than the specific job.” They’re also more general in terms of how you talk about your skill set.
“On the flip side of that, the cover letter can be more job-focused, a little more position-oriented, because there’s a specific job that’s posted that you want to speak to,” she adds.
As a result, each type of letter requires a different approach.
For example, says Kea, with a cover letter you might say, “I’m highly interested in a product manager role at [Company] for the following reasons,” while with a letter of intent you’re more likely to say something along the lines of, “I’m highly interested in a managerial role at [Company] for the following reasons.”
Going broader “gives you more wiggle room into what the employer may align you with in terms of roles,” says Kea. Rather than pigeonhole yourself into one path, you allow the hiring manager to slot you into the best-fit scenario.
Letters of intent can also present themselves in situations outside the application process—for example, if you want to follow up after a job fair or a networking event. “Again, there may not be a specific role listed that you’re interested in or that you can apply for at that time,” Kea says, but emailing a letter of intent is a great way to express interest in working for their organization one day.
Why Do Companies Ask for Letters of Intent?
Companies ask for letters of intent mainly when they’re as torn about what they’re looking for as you might be.
“In some cases, employers might have several jobs posted at once for one department or for one specific project,” says Kea. They may ask for a letter of intent because they’re not entirely sure what kind of person they need to fill the gaps in those departments. Maybe they’ll end up hiring two senior-level managers, or they may be just as satisfied with one mid-level exec and one entry-level employee—depending on which people wow them in the application process.
Letters of intent are also frequently used to hire for contractors or freelancers who aren’t your standard W2 employees, because if, for example, a contract falls through, companies can easily line up the next qualified candidate for the job.
Put simply, a hiring manager most likely wants to widen their candidate pool, so they’re looking for anyone and everyone who shows an eagerness and passion for the company.
The type of letter can also vary across sectors. “In my experience, the more established organizations [and] private companies typically go with a cover letter,” says Kea, while letters of intent might present themselves at startups or nonprofits that are more mission-focused and growing at a greater rate.
“So from a candidate perspective, if you’re asked to submit a letter of intent, that may mean that the company is newer, that they’re trying to source talent in a different way, whereas the cover letter [is] more of a classic go-to,” she explains.
How Do You Go About Writing a Letter of Intent?
First off, you want to express plenty of interest in the company itself. “A lot of people get really wrapped up [in saying] ‘I’m the perfect person for this job, I want this job, I’m great for this job, hire me for this job,’” says Kea. “And there’s nothing wrong with that…but one of the things that makes an intent letter so successful is really showing that you identify with the company’s mission, their values, their goals.”
Letters of intent can also be more current. For example, rather than talk broadly about the company, you may mention something about them in the news or a recent update to their product. You want to include “anything that would grab the attention of the employer and also show that you’re keeping up with what’s happening with that organization or in your industry,” she says. (Of course, you could also reference something current in a cover letter, too, if that’s how you want to grab the reader’s attention to start off.)
And, as with a great opening line to a cover letter , “it helps to capture their interest and encourage them to keep reading; that’s of course the goal,” she adds.
If you’re struggling to come up with something specific about the company to discuss, then talk about something that’s engaging about yourself, says Kea. What makes you stand out? What unique skills, experiences, or passions do you bring to the table? And how do these align with what the company needs, given what you know about them?
Overall, you want to make it general enough that you’re showing interest in the company as a whole, “but also specific enough so that the employer walks away with at least one key takeaway from you and your skill set and what you can bring to this organization,” she says.
Let’s go back to the product manager versus managerial role explanation above. If you were to write a cover letter , says Kea, you’d probably try to speak to a particular product manager position. So you would focus your letter on why you’d be good at that job—the experiences you have working on a product’s lifecycle, managing vendor relationships, and collaborating across teams, to name a few examples. You’d also want to make sure you’re addressing specific points in the job description.
But if you were writing a letter of intent, you’d instead want to focus on how you’d be great for a managerial role—whether it’s as a product manager or something else entirely. In this case, rather than mention your product manager experience, you might talk about how you led a team, managed expectations, or coordinated logistics for meetings. You’re referencing specific skills, sure—and your resume is highlighting both sets of skills—but you’re tailoring your letter to what the hiring manager may be looking for.
A Sample Letter of Intent
Let’s say you’re an experienced designer and product manager looking to join a startup in some capacity. You do some digging to figure out who to address your letter to (please, please don’t use “ To Whom It May Concern ”), and discover that the head of the product department is named Caroline Coffman.
You might send her the following:
Dear Caroline Coffman,
When I was 10, my brother fainted while waiting to ride a rollercoaster at Six Flags. It was an incredibly hot day, and we’d been in line for an hour.
I don’t remember anything else about that day—what other rides we took, what we ate, even who exactly we were with—but I distinctly remember the feeling of wanting to know why . Why did this happen? Why did we have to wait in such long lines? Why hasn’t anyone come up with a solution to the problem of overcrowded amusement parks?
It’s for this reason that I’m thrilled to apply to work on the product and design team at Rydes. Not only does your mission of revolutionizing and adding efficiency to theme parks spark my curiosity and eagerness to fix things, it also reminds me of the bigger picture: that you should leave an amusement park, or any family outing for that matter, with fonder memories than your sibling passing out. Your latest product update featured in Forbes around waiting times on lines especially spoke to me and further encouraged me to write this letter.
A little bit about me: I majored in design and applied arts because I wanted to be self-sufficient in how I solved problems, and because I enjoyed working with my hands as well as my mind. I took on a role as associate UX designer at a small startup because I was fascinated with making websites that were seamless and free of obstacles, then shifted to a product manager position at a larger company because I realized how much I liked collaborating across departments and working with various experts to brainstorm ideas and solutions. To me, the most rewarding part of my day is helping my team members be productive, feel motivated, and achieve their goals. With this experience and skill set, I’m ready to leap back into the startup world and work for a company whose ambitions align with my own.
I want to thank you for considering me to join this fantastic team of innovators and creatives, and I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely, Jack Williams
Now that you know the difference between a cover letter and a letter of intent, go tell your friends this new fun fact! And maybe consider this new form of applying the next time you set your eyes on your dream company.
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How to Write a Letter of Intent for a Job
Want to work for a company without any open positions? Submit a letter of intent so they’ll remember you when a new role becomes available.
Not all open job positions are advertised publicly. Sometimes, it pays off to make the first move and reach out to companies that you’d like to work for, even if they don’t have any job listings on LinkedIn.
That’s where a letter of intent comes in.
What is a letter of intent?
A letter of intent (LOI) is used to reach out to a company you’re interested in applying to, but that isn’t currently advertising any open positions that match your experience.
It typically includes information about your professional background, greatest accomplishments, and an explanation of why you’d be a great fit for the company.
In many ways, a letter of intent is similar to a cover letter, with the difference that a cover letter is submitted along with a resume to respond to a job ad .
Why should you write an intent letter?
Like a letter or statement of interest , a letter of intent for employment purposes lets you introduce yourself to the employer so they’ll keep you in mind in case any positions open up in the future.
It’s a great way to show employers that you’re a proactive person who takes initiative, both qualities that are highly sought after.
Not only that, but writing a letter of intent shows that you’re passionate about the role.
Sample letter of intent for a job
Before we get into how you write a letter of intent, here’s an example to show you what they look like:
Tips for writing a letter of intent
Writing a letter of intent for a job can be tricky because it needs to be compelling enough that your name sticks in the employer’s mind. Here are three tips to follow to make the writing process easier:
1. Express interest in the company
The first paragraph should make it clear why you’re writing a letter of intent, but also why you’re writing to that particular company . The more specific you are, the better.
Here are some topics you can bring up in your intent letter to prove that you’re passionate about the company:
- Mention a product the company produces that you like and why
- Talk about the organization’s goals and explain how you could help them achieve them
- Refer to the company’s mission statement and discuss why it resonates with you
- Describe recent company developments and how you’d be able to contribute to the organization’s continued success
By including details about the company in your letter of intent, you show that you’ve done your research and aren’t sending out identical letters to several other businesses.
2. Quantify your achievements
An effective letter of intent showcases your most impressive accomplishments to give the employer a glimpse at what you could achieve working for them.
To make your letter even more impactful, quantify your achievements using hard numbers like you would if you were writing a resume .
Compare these two examples written by a financial advisor:
Bad example
In my last role, I devised and applied a new training and accountability program that successfully increased productivity.
Good example
In my last role, I devised and applied a new training and accountability program that successfully increased productivity by 18% in 12 months.
The second example is better because it describes exactly how successful the new training and accountability program was.
3. Highlight your skills
In addition to spotlighting your achievements, you should use your letter of intent to prove that you have the skills required to succeed at the company.
You can do this by listing skills relevant to the type of position you want to be considered for. For example, if you’re a graphic designer, make sure to draw attention to photo editing software you’re proficient with and your ability to come up with creative designs.
There’s no need to include an exhaustive list of skills you possess, just mention a few that will (hopefully) make the employer curious enough about your qualifications that they’ll respond to your letter.
4. End with a call to action
Conclude your letter of intent with a call to action that encourages the employer to contact you. This demonstrates that you’re eager to get started as soon as possible and increases your likelihood of receiving a response.
Letter of intent for employment template
Here’s a template for you to copy so you can easily write your own letter of intent for a job:
Letter of intent template
[Dear Hiring Manager],
Paragraph 1: Write a few sentences explaining why you’re interested in the company. Tell a story about how you found out about the organization, or explain why you’ve been following recent developments at the company.
- Write 2-4 bullet points highlighting your relevant accomplishments
- [Accomplishment 2]
- [Accomplishment 3]
Paragraph 2: Use this paragraph to describe your skill set. Remember to focus on abilities that the employer could benefit from.
Paragraph 3: End your letter of intent with a call to action. Include your phone number and email so that the employer can reach out to you.
[Your Name]
Written by Ida Pettersson
Ida is a Content Writer at Resume Genius, where she assists job seekers as they plan their next career moves. She graduated from New College of Florida with a double major... more
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Writing a cover letter is essential when applying for jobs. This is the perfect way to express how your specific skills are relevant to the open position. Wow your future employer with this simple cover letter example format.
Letters of introduction are mainly used to express interest in a job that has not been advertised, while cover letters are used to express interest in a job that has been advertised.
When you’re in the market for a new job, there’s a lot to think about. There’s excitement over the prospect of embarking on a new life path, of course, but you’ll also need to prepare a few things before you’re even called in for an intervi...
Although similar to a cover letter, an intent letter provides less detail related to a specific job. Instead, it expresses your interest in
Letters of intent are used as a means of introduction to personalize your application and connect the hiring manager to your resume. They make
A job letter of intent is attached to a resume and serves as an introduction to the job and company for the applicant.
A letter of intent is a letter or document that you send to a company to state your intentions to work for them. This letter is more generalized
A letter of intent is used when submitting unsolicited job applications or inquiries to companies you would like to work for.
A letter of intent for a job is a document that professionals send companies that interest them regarding employment opportunities in the future
A letter of intent is just a cover letter in most cases. It's a 3–4 paragraph description of why you fit the job. It starts with a hook, shows a
A letter of intent is a brief document, usually paired with a resume, that states your intention to work for a particular company. It should summarize your
A letter of intent for a job is somewhat the same as a cover letter that one sends with their resume. This employment letter of intent would explain your
Letters of intent can also present themselves in situations outside the application process—for example, if you want to follow up after a job fair or a
Letter of intent for employment template ... [Dear Hiring Manager],. Paragraph 1: Write a few sentences explaining why you're interested in the