What is a letter of interest?
A letter of interest is a way to introduce yourself to a target company without applying to a specific position. Also known as a letter of inquiry or statement of interest, a letter of interest is like a cover letter you’d include with a job application, but in this case, the target company has no open positions that fit your qualifications.
When should you send a letter of interest?
A letter of interest has multiple uses relating to your job search. If a professional connection refers you to a job posting that fits your skill set but hasn’t been released publicly yet, you can use a letter of interest to inform a recruiter of your interest before other applicants. If you plan to relocate or pursue a more specialized job search, or you discover a company with a mission and values that align with yours, you can use a letter of interest to introduce yourself. Show the Human Resources department how eager and prepared you are to work there, regardless of current job openings.