In today’s competitive job market, your dream jobs aren’t always advertised. Probably, you’ve visited a company’s website and silently said, “This is my dream workplace,” only to realize there are no open roles or none that match your skills. We urge you not to click away just yet.
Instead of hoping for the perfect job opportunity to be advertised, because it may never be, why not send a letter of interest?
Also known as a prospecting letter or statement of interest, a letter of interest is a powerful way to reach out to employers that align with your career vision, even when they’ve not posted a vacancy. It demonstrates you can take initiative and position yourself as a frontrunner if an opportunity ever arises.
In this post, you’ll learn how to:
- ✅Write a letter of interest that gets read and remembered
- ✅Position your experience, skills, and passion effectively, even without a job description
- ✅Ensure you’ll be considered for future roles
- ✅Format your letter for AI-based applicant tracking systems (ATS)
Letter of Interest for Teaching Position Example
Janine Lewis
123 Pretend Ave Anytown, CA 12345
[email protected]
123-456-7890
February 7, 2026
Mr. Alexander Rivera
Director, Human Resources
Roosevelt Elementary School
123 Pretend Rd.
Anycity, NY 54321
Dear Mr. Rivera,
I am writing to express my interest in a teaching position at Roosevelt Elementary School. I was drawn by your Global Cultures project, where students explore different countries and traditions. As an educator with over 10 years of experience, I share the same student-centered approach that emphasizes individualized learning and self-discovery that enables young children to thrive and discover themselves.
Following the completion of my master’s degree in Education, I joined the team at Sunnydale Elementary as a teaching assistant before being promoted to a full-time teaching position. I have been instrumental in developing a curriculum that incorporates visual, auditory, and kinesthetic activities to support students with different learning needs, including those with IEPs, enabling students with disabilities to excel and grow. My approach to education is to foster a learning environment where students regularly collaborate in group projects, share their work, and receive constructive feedback that helps each child feel comfortable at all times.
Roosevelt Elementary School’s mission aligns with my core values as a teacher and I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how I could contribute in a teaching role. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Janine Lewis
Why this teaching letter of interest works (tailoring to school projects)
- Writing a letter of interest is a good way to differentiate yourself from other potential candidates—after all, there might not even be any other applicants to compete against you! However, it’s still important to show that you’ve done your homework, which Janine did by talking about a particular project the school is involved in.
- Including a specific reference to a school project in the opening paragraph, in the very first paragraph, shows the employer that you genuinely care and took the time to learn more about the company or the institution.
Letter of Interest for Medical School Example
Prakhar Singh
123 Pretend Ave Anytown, CA 12345
[email protected]
123-456-7890
February 27, 2026
Dr. Helena Pendleton
Director of Admissions
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
123 Pretend Rd.
Anycity, NY 54321
Dear Dr. Pendleton,
I am reaching out to express my desire to join the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine for the upcoming academic year. After reading about the recent study on personalized cancer therapy that identified genetic markers to tailor treatment plans conducted by your institution, I became deeply fascinated by its innovative approach to medicine. As an aspiring physician who one day hopes to specialize in oncology, I cannot think of a better place to learn and grow.
During my undergraduate studies, I pursued research and clinical volunteer roles that combined scientific investigation with direct patient interaction, mirroring Johns Hopkins’ focus on integrating scientific inquiry with patient care of integrating scientific inquiry with patient-centered care. One of my proudest achievements is the community health initiative that I spearheaded during an internship at a local clinic, increasing access to preventative care services in underserved areas.
Thank you for considering my letter of interest. I am eager to elaborate on my passion for medicine during an informational interview and how I can contribute to the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in the incoming class of 2026.
Sincerely,
Prakhar Singh
Why this medical school letter of interest works (aligning with research focus)
- Medical schools are highly selective, often admitting only a small percentage of applicants each year, so being able to stand out is crucial. Fortunately, this applicant did a good job by talking about a major research achievement the school prominently highlights that closely aligns with the applicant’s chosen field of study.
- Mentioning anything that shows you’re a good fit in a letter of interest is a great idea. This includes volunteer work, school projects you’ve worked on, or papers you’ve read that inspired you.
Letter of Interest for Law School Example
Camilla Johansson
123 Pretend Ave Anytown, CA 12345
[email protected]
123-456-7890
March 29, 2026
Dr. Radimir Krupin
Director of Admissions
Harvard Law School
123 Pretend Rd.
Anycity, NY 54321
Dear Dr. Krupin,
I am writing to apply for the upcoming class of 2026 at Harvard Law School. Having just completed my undergraduate degree in Political Science, bolstered by experience as a legal assistant, I am ready to pursue my long-term goal of studying at Harvard and contributing to your legal clinics and research initiatives and contributing to your unparalleled commitment to legal excellence.
Following my mother’s career as a lawyer exposed me to the impact the justice system can have in securing fair outcomes for underserved clients at an early age. With a clear goal in mind, I refined my natural interest by involving myself in volunteer work for non-profit legal aid organizations. I am particularly inspired by Harvard Law School’s public policy initiatives, such as your [specific clinic, journal, or program], which is an area where I hope to make a significant impact in my career.
I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to discuss how my experiences, drive, and aspirations align with the values and goals of Harvard Law School. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Camilla Johansson
Why this law school letter of interest works (showing mission and value fit)
- Having a good reason to apply to law school is definitely something to share, and state your motivation clearly and directly in your letter. In her letter of interest, Camilla highlights not just her personal experiences but also talks about why it’s important to her to study at that particular school.
- Those in charge of admissions will want to know why this school is your first choice, so if you can effectively highlight your personal journey, you’ll already be one step ahead!
Sorority Letter of Interest Example
Marina Thompson
123 Pretend Ave Anytown, CA 12345
[email protected]
123-456-7890
December 14, 2026
Ms. Angela Simmons
Recruitment Chair
Alpha Beta Gamma Sorority
University of Southern California
123 Pretend Rd.
Anycity, NY 54321
Dear Ms. Simmons,
I am reaching out to express my great enthusiasm for joining the Alpha Beta Gamma Sorority at the University of Southern California. I first learned of it through the yearly “Aid the Elderly” campaign, and I was immensely impressed by the sorority’s commitment to bettering the lives of seniors. As a freshman with four years of consistent community service and a clear focus on developing my leadership and communication skills, I would love to contribute to your mission.
My college journey is only just beginning, but have built a foundation of experience that includes leading my high school’s volunteer club and coordinating three annual fundraising drives during my high school years. I have been volunteering at the local animal shelter since I was 13, and this experience has instilled in me a sense of empathy for those less fortunate, which I know that your sorority shares in full.
I am excited about the opportunity to meet with you and discuss how I can contribute to the legacy and vibrant community of Alpha Beta Gamma. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Marina Thompson
Why this sorority letter of interest works (highlighting enthusiasm and service)
- A sorority is not a job, and oftentimes, genuine enthusiasm often carries significant weight alongside your past qualifications. You’re there to make a difference but also to build strong personal and professional relationships on campus.
- Make your letter of interest convey how much you care about that particular sorority, and don’t be afraid to express your excitement. Don’t forget to also use a resume builder and resume checker to create the perfect sorority application.
Letter of Interest for Coaching Position Example
Willem Van Buggenum
123 Pretend Ave Anytown, CA 12345
[email protected]
123-456-7890
January 23, 2026
Coach Denise Bowen
Athletic Director
University of California, Los Angeles
Athletics Department
123 Pretend Rd.
Anycity, NY 54321
Dear Coach Bowen,
I am thrilled to express my interest in being able to work with the track and field team at the University of California. The University’s long record of sending athletes to national and Olympic competitions and maintaining a coaching culture that emphasizes individualized support and long-term development has always been a source of inspiration for me. With a decade of coaching experience and a keen interest in performance analytics, I am ready to contribute to the Bruins’ legacy.
I honed my skills during a bachelor’s program in Physical Education followed by a master’s in Sports Science. During my career, I led the varsity track team to three consecutive [Conference/Division] regional championships and worked closely with my students on their athletic performance.
I would be immensely grateful for the opportunity to discuss how I could help further UCLA’s commitment to student-athlete success during an informational interview. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Willem Van Buggenum
Why this coaching letter of interest works (showcasing results and leadership)
- If you have an impressive amount of experience in coaching, don’t be afraid to brag a little. Senior-level coaching roles require substantial, clearly documented experience, so dropping a few of your career highlights can be super effective.
- As a coach, discussing the success of your team and your approach to coaching is a good way to let the employer know what you’re made of.
Letter of Interest for Internal Position Example
Penelope Taylor
Quality Assurance Department
Google
123 Pretend Ave Anytown, CA 12345
[email protected]
123-456-7890
April 8, 2026
Mr. Colin Newman
Director of Product Development
Google
123 Pretend Rd.
Anycity, NY 54321
Dear Mr. Newman,
I am writing to express my interest in the Product Manager position within the Product Development Department. When I heard of Ms. Lee’s upcoming retirement, I immediately recognized that the role matches my six years of experience in quality assurance at Google. I am eager to contribute my knowledge of our products, customer needs, and technological challenges to further Google’s leadership in the industry.
In my current role, I’ve spearheaded cross-departmental initiatives to streamline testing processes, leading to a 20% reduction in product defects and a 15% improvement in average product launch timelines. Having been promoted three times in the past six years, I have been recognized for my drive and experience in user design, product planning, and market positioning.
I am confident that my background in quality assurance and my in-depth understanding of Google’s vision will be an asset to the Product Development team. I look forward to discussing my candidacy during an informational interview. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Penelope Taylor
Why this internal position letter of interest works (leveraging your track record)
- You already work at the company, so you already have an established track record at the company. A stellar letter of interest combined with the right resume outline should do the trick—but to seal the deal, don’t forget to express your knowledge and passion for your workplace.
- Penelope highlighted her journey at this company throughout the entire letter, and this is the right approach. Talk about your career progression within the company, including promotions and expanded responsibilities, and the relevant work experience you’ve gathered that led you to where you are now.
Internship Letter of Interest Example
Laura Chen
123 Pretend Ave Anytown, CA 12345
[email protected]
123-456-7890
May 16, 2026
Ms. Elena Martinez
Internship Coordinator
Tesla
123 Pretend Rd.
Anycity, NY 54321
Dear Ms. Martinez,
As a junior majoring in Environmental Science at New York University, I would like to express my keen interest in the summer internship program in Tesla’s Renewable Energy Projects division. Throughout my studies, In recent years, I’ve focused my coursework and projects on climate change mitigation and its environmental and social impacts. Tesla’s groundbreaking work in this field spurred me to offer my commitment to environmental stewardship.
I have participated in more than 12 local sustainability initiatives, including campus-wide recycling campaigns and community clean-up events, including a university-led project that focused on implementing solar-powered charging stations across the campus. Spearheading this initiative taught me more about the importance of reducing our carbon footprint, but also helped me develop my skills in leadership and analytics.
I cannot think of a better team of environmental experts to learn from than those within Tesla’s Renewable Energy Projects division. I am eager to discuss how my enthusiasm and background in environmental science can contribute to Tesla’s mission this summer. Thank you so much for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Laura Chen
Why this internship letter of interest works (emphasizing skills and initiative)
- Applying for an internship can seem a little scary, especially if you’re expressing your interest in a program that hasn’t even been listed. Don’t worry, though—there’s a strong way to differentiate yourself from other applicants.
- Just like you should be adding some key resume skills to your application, don’t forget to mention them in your letter of interest. It gives the hiring manager a better idea of what you can contribute during the internship.
Letter of Interest for Promotion Example
Emanuel Kováč
Senior Analyst
Omnicom Group
123 Pretend Ave Anytown, CA 12345
[email protected]
123-456-7890
June 13, 2026
Ms. Eleni Antoniou
Vice President of Operations
Omnicom Group
123 Pretend Rd.
Anycity, NY 54321
Dear Ms. Antoniou,
I am reaching out to express my interest in the recently announced position of Director of Operations. In the past seven years, I have worked in three different departments at Omnicom Group, giving me a unique perspective and a deep understanding of our operational processes and client needs. I am eager to contribute my cross-department experience and advanced skills in data analysis and strategic planning in data analysis and strategic planning to the success of our team.
My journey with Omnicom began in the Marketing Analytics Department, then moved on to the Digital Media Department, only to finally settle in the Operations Department as a senior analyst. I developed in-depth knowledge of our full product stack, from initial planning through deployment and performance monitoring and honed my skills in operational analytics, process optimization, and strategic planning.
I believe that my background in operations, along with my proven track record of improving processes, positions me well to step into this leadership role. I would love to discuss how my skills align with this position during an interview. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Emanuel Kováč
Why this promotion letter of interest works (demonstrating growth and impact)
- Angling for a promotion means that you intend to stay with the company and continue taking on higher levels of responsibility. If you can strike that unique balance in your letter of interest, you’ll score a lot of extra brownie points.
- Highlighting your career journey in the company, complete with what you’ve learned, shows the employer that you value the road you took to get to where you are now. It also shows growth, which is a key aspect of getting promoted!
Letter of Interest for Residency Example
Dr. Philip Crane
123 Pretend Ave Anytown, CA 12345
[email protected]
123-456-7890
March 25, 2026
Dr. Gregory Jesse
Residency Program Director
Cleveland Clinic
123 Pretend Rd.
Anycity, NY 54321
Dear Dr. Jesse,
I am writing to express my interest in the Internal Medicine Residency Program at the Cleveland Clinic for the upcoming 2026-2027 cycle. Your institution’s Heart Transplant Program has been a source of my fascination and inspiration. Having studied it extensively during my cardiology rotation at Columbia University, I believe I am well-positioned to contribute to your highly specialized team of physicians who focus on advanced treatment approaches and clinical research.
During my clinical rotations, I had the privilege to work in a range of healthcare settings, including urban teaching hospitals, community clinics, and inpatient wards. My rotation in internal medicine, during which I worked with excellent, driven physicians, taught me the importance of proper patient care and having an inquisitive mindset to get to the bottom of every ailment.
I am eager to bring my enthusiasm, academic curiosity, and willingness to handle demanding clinical schedules to Cleveland Clinic this year. Thank you for your consideration and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Dr. Philip Crane
Why this residency letter of interest works (aligning interests with the program)
- A measured level of confidence can strengthen your closing paragraph. While it’s important to err on the side of caution, including a little hidden call to action (CTA) can express that you truly care about this particular residency program.
- Philip’s short and quick “I look forward to hearing from you soon” works well as a closing line after a list of the qualities he’ll bring to the program, expressing eagerness and a dash of confidence.
Letter of Continued Interest Example
Jordan Michalski
123 Pretend Ave Anytown, CA 12345
[email protected]
123-456-7890
April 17, 2026
Ms. Valentina Newton
Program Manager
Stanford University
123 Pretend Rd.
Anycity, NY 54321
Dear Ms. Newton,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am reaching out to reaffirm my strong interest in attending Stanford University. As an applicant currently on the waitlist for entering the class of 2026, I remain deeply committed to pursuing my dream of learning from Stanford’s esteemed legal community.
In addition to affirming my interest, I wish to provide an update on my accomplishments. I have recently completed an internship with the District Attorney’s Office, where I had the privilege of observing courtroom proceedings and gaining first-hand knowledge of the justice system.
My wish to pursue a legal career that champions equity is solidified by Stanford University’s rigorous program that offers a wide range of courses and clinics focused on equity and social justice. I am hopeful for the opportunity to join the class of 2026. Thank you so much for your continued consideration.
Sincerely,
Jordan Michalski
Why this letter of continued interest works (providing updates and reaffirming fit)
- A letter of continued interest is more than just a reminder that you’re still eager to be accepted. It also serves to update the program manager or admissions committee on your recent academic, professional, or extracurricular achievements since they last heard from you.
- Providing an update on your relevant experiences and skills adds weight to your refresher, putting you at the top of the application pile.
What Is a Letter of Interest (and How It Differs from a Cover Letter)?
If you thought that a letter of interest was like a cover letter in disguise, we can’t blame you—but it’s really not. It serves a different purpose, and, as any good cover letter generator would show you, it follows an entirely different format.
University of Cincinnati defines a letter of interest as a way to demonstrate genuine interest in a specific organization or program. You’re reaching out before a position is formally posted and indicating your availability for upcoming roles. It’s the easiest way to say that you truly care about a given company, internship, community, or institution.
There are several common types of letters of interest, such as for promotions, internships, residencies, and academic programs, each with a different format and required information. For instance, when applying for a promotion, you’ll highlight your career at that company. On the other hand, applying for an internship calls for a focus on your education and skills.
Letter of interest vs. cover letter: key differences and when to use each
You write a cover letter in response to an existing opening, be it an internship or a job. A letter of interest, on the other hand, involves reaching out without knowing whether a specific vacancy currently exists.
Knowing how to write a cover letter is similar to knowing how to write a resume. You’ll discuss your skills and your background, and add some quantifiable metrics to make an impression. You know that the job exists, so all you need to do is to make the employer pick you for the opening.
In a letter of interest, you may not know whether the vacancy exists or if it’s open to you. Instead, you’re letting the recipient know something along the lines of, “Hey, I love this place, and I’m a great fit!”
It’s a targeted and proactive approach that shows you don’t want to work anywhere, you want to work there. That’s one way to get noticed before formal roles are advertised.
When and why to write a letter of interest (with real-world scenarios)
Writing a letter of interest, or a prospecting letter, is a good idea in many circumstances.
Here’s why a letter of interest might be a good idea:
- You found a company you love, but it’s not hiring for your position. Sure, you could wait and see if and when they do, but a letter of interest is a good first step that gets you on their radar before they’re flooded with resumes.
- You’re applying for a residency or an internship. A letter of interest is often required for residencies and internships. Sometimes, you may be asked to submit a longer version referred to as a “personal statement.”
- You’ve already applied and want to reaffirm your interest. Whether you’re waitlisted at your dream college or want to remind a company that you’re still out there, this can help.
In most cases, sending a letter of interest is low-risk and can increase your visibility. Worst case scenario, you won’t get hired. Best case? They may view you as a motivated candidate and be more likely to review your materials carefully.
How to Write a Letter of Interest Step-by-Step (Structure, Tone, and Format)
Unlike a personal statement, a letter of interest needs to be brief. Its main purpose is to capture attention and clearly convey your interest and qualifications, so it can’t go on for too long.
Keep it concise at three paragraphs. Be highly professional and enthusiastic, and make sure that you’re only communicating key details.
A good way to differentiate yourself is to reference a specific project, initiative, or value that the company emphasizes, such as by including a relevant personal story.
How to write a professional letter of interest (tone and company research)
This isn’t the right time to play a risky game—always use a professional, formal tone in your letter. Being eager is a huge plus, but joking or using colloquial language can undermine your professionalism.
You’ll have to do some digging to familiarize yourself with the company’s culture, mission, and projects.
Find and address the right contact to personalize your letter of interest
You’re already ahead of the curve by even sending this letter, so don’t lose that unique opportunity by not using the most powerful tool in your arsenal: opening with the recipient’s name. Try to find their name and address them directly.
Research the company’s projects, roles, and needs before you write
You care about this company—that much is clear. Now, show this to the employer or admissions officer by researching their current projects, strategic priorities, and any skills gaps mentioned in recent job postings. Even if your exact role isn’t currently open, perhaps there are other openings in the same department?
Demonstrate your value with relevant skills, achievements, and metrics
Enthusiasm alone is not enough to make a strong case for yourself. Throughout your letter of interest, emphasize your skills and your background to express why you’re the right fit. Discuss your career highlights and key abilities that align with the job.
Keep your letter of interest focused on 2–3 key strengths
It might be tricky, but make sure to stay on course throughout your cover letter. Keep it concise and reread every line to ensure that it sends the right message. Focus on just two or three of your greatest strengths—you can always list more skills in a resume.
Letter of interest format: exact structure and sections to include
Just like finding the right resume format is crucial, so is the way you format your letter of interest. You want it to be readable and follow a logical flow of information that clearly communicates your interest and suitability. The body of the letter should be no more than three paragraphs, so this is important!
Add contact information for you and the recipient, plus the date
Start by including your contact information, such as your name, email, phone number, and address. Do the same for the recipient’s information, but also add their job title, company, and their name. Lastly, don’t forget the date.
Introduce yourself in one sentence (role, experience, or status)
Briefly introduce yourself to give the recipient a quick overview of your professional background. This goes beyond your name; it’s more about your current job or your experience. You could say, “As an engineer with 10 years of experience…” to get the ball rolling.
Explain why you’re writing and which role or program you want
Letters of interest often come as a surprise, so it’s a good idea to mention this in the first line of your letter. Include the position you’re interested in and state your enthusiasm for the role. If you have a personal reason for this, such as an interest spurred by a particular project, mention it here!
From the first paragraph, connect your qualifications to their needs
You should connect your qualifications to the organization’s needs throughout the letter—starting with the first paragraph. Right off the bat, drop a couple of reasons why your qualifications align perfectly with the company’s needs.
Highlight a few highly relevant skills and experiences (not your whole resume)
Use a paragraph or two to dive into your skills and experience. Talk about jobs, internships, or volunteer work, all depending on the type of letter of interest.
End with a clear ask: request an informational interview
Seal the deal with a simple “I am eager to discuss how I can contribute to your company’s mission during an informational interview.”
Practical letter of interest tips to improve your chances of a response
Even writing the perfect letter of interest and sending it in at the most opportune time doesn’t guarantee that you’ll get the job. There are a few things that you can do to improve your chances of success, though.
- Make it personal. There’s a reason why you chose this particular company, and even if your primary motivation is finding a job, identify a specific aspect of the organization’s mission, values, or work that genuinely interests you to show that there’s more to it.
- Do your homework. Grab the reader’s attention by mentioning relevant projects or products that the company has worked on recently.
- Identify the organization’s top priorities. Browse through the company website and available job openings to get a feel of what they need, then match up your skills against that.
- Stay on point. Highlight only a couple of your strengths that truly align with this role.
Common letter of interest mistakes to avoid
There are some things that even the most perfect applicant cannot get away with. Steer clear of the following:
- Don’t be too generic. It’s important to keep it professional, but sending something that sounds robotic is similar to submitting a generic, AI-generated resume that hasn’t been tailored to the role.
- Don’t make assumptions. Confidence is great, but don’t slip into the vicinity of rudeness. Express enthusiasm without being pushy.
- Don’t rush. Sending a letter of interest that has typos or is repetitive, is a surefire way to never get called. It’s sometimes hard to catch your own typos, so be thorough with your checks.
- Don’t give up. If you don’t hear back, it’s a good idea to follow up a week or two later to reaffirm your interest.
Letter of Interest FAQs
Start with deep research. Read up on the company or the school, find the name of the recipient, and identify the likely responsibilities and required skills for the role. Next, express why your qualifications make you the perfect fit.
A letter of interest serves as an introduction that outlines your interest, background, and potential fit for the organization except you’re not responding to any specific job posting. It’s similar to writing a cover letter to accompany a job application, but is sent when there are no fitting job openings and you’re interested in working for the company or institution regardless.
Begin by addressing the recipient by name. Follow that up with a strong introduction that tells them who you are and why you’re interested in working with them.
No, not at all. A cover letter is an important part of the job application process; you send it in when you know there’s a job that’s waiting for you. A letter of interest is something you send even if there are no job openings right now, but you like the company.
Your letter of interest needs to fit a single page, so keep it concise. Apart from the contact info, the greeting, and the signoff, aim to keep the body of your letter to three concise paragraphs so it fits on a single page and remains easy to scan.
Stephen is the co-founder and CEO of BeamJobs. Frustrated with the challenges he'd faced in his own job search, he left the corporate world to start BeamJobs with his brother. Drawing on firsthand experience with hiring and getting hired as technical talent, he started BeamJobs in 2020 to help qualified job seekers land interviews with less stress. Since then, more than 4 million people have built their resumes and cover letters on BeamJobs. Stephen's insights have been featured in notable outlets, such as Fast Company, Business Insider, Yahoo Finance, MIT, and Zapier. Learn more about Stephen.
