Writing a Letter of Interest, or, the Cold Email
A letter of interest is similar to, but different from, a cover letter. Whereas the cover letter accompanies
your job application and elaborates on why you are the perfect candidate for a specific position, the
letter of interest introduces yourself and your skills to prospective employers or contacts without any
particular available job opening. For this reason, the letter of interest is often found in email form and
sent out to contacts in organizations you are interested in working for, and it is often accompanied by a
resume.
You are expressing interest in working in an organization. The letter demonstrates knowledge and
respect for that organization and demonstrates how you can add value. It’s also an opportunity to learn
more about the organization, make a connection, and put yourself on their radar.
You want to tailor your letter of interest to a specific organization, like you would tailor a cover letter to
a specific job. This means you should do your research! Address the letter to a specific person (no “Dear
Madam” or “To Whom It May Concern”) and make sure to drop the organization’s name at some point
to avoid sounding generic. When sending an email, use an interesting and engaging subject line.
Here’s an easy template for a formal letter. If writing in the body of an email, skip all the headings and
start with “Dear so-and-so” and go straight into the letter.
Your contact info as appears on your resume and cover letter
Date
Contact person name, job title
Company name
Company address
Phone number
Contact person email
Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. Contact Person:
Paragraph 1: Write how you found out about the organization, what attracts you to it, and why you are
interested in working there. You can give a brief sentence or two explaining why you appreciate the
organization and what they do.
Paragraph 2: Highlight some relevant skills, experience, qualities, or training. Supporting these with
examples is always good. State how you can contribute or be an asset to the organization (remember,
this letter is about how you can help them) based on your knowledge of it.
Paragraph 3: Specify an action. Ask for a phone call or an informational interview. Provide a means of
contact and a quick thanks to end it.
Sign off.