Letter of Interest vs. Cover Letter: Key Differences and Best Writing Tips
Landing your dream job can be tough, especially in highly competitive fields. Knowing when to use a letter of interest vs. cover letter can help differentiate you as a candidate and catch a hiring manager’s eye as they sort through applicant information. So when should you use a letter of intent vs. cover letter? Find out in this comprehensive guide.
Understanding the purpose of each document
Letters of interest and cover letters serve distinct purposes in your job search.
A letter of interest expresses your desire to work with a company even when there are no specific job openings advertised. You can get on an employer’s radar and maybe even receive notice of any upcoming job postings — if you can impress the hiring team with a great document, of course.
On the other hand, you will submit a cover letter in response to specific job postings. You’ll need to include a resume with your letter and provide a detailed breakdown of why you are a good candidate. Make sure to align your skills with specific abilities that the hiring team lists on the job posting.
Explore letter of intent, cover letter, and resume articles for more insights about when and how to use each job application document.
Key differences between a letter of interest and a cover letter
There are some significant differences between a letter of interest vs. cover letter, including the intent and overall focus of the two documents.
A letter of interest, also known as a letter of intent or statement of interest, expresses your general interest in working for a company without targeting a specific job opening. It’s often broader and less targeted than a cover letter, as it’s meant to introduce you to the business and showcase your potential fit for future opportunities.
Cover letters target specific job postings and should be customized for each application. The cover letter structure should complement your resume, directly linking your skills to the abilities mentioned in the job posting. It should also explain why you are an ideal candidate for that particular role.
These documents vary in length. Cover letters are usually short and to the point. Try to limit it to about one page. Your letter of interest can be longer and more detailed, providing a broader overview of your background.
If you are going to use a cover letter template, you’ll need a matching resume template that complements your letter. Letters of interest are often submitted without any other supporting documentation, meaning you don’t have to worry about finding matching templates or file formats.
Expert Tip:
When writing a letter of interest, research the company thoroughly. Mention specific projects or initiatives that excite you and explain how your background and skills can contribute to the company’s success.
Writing an effective cover letter
A compelling cover letter requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you craft a standout cover letter:
- Address the Hiring Manager by Name: Use the hiring manager’s name in your letter to add a personal touch
- Tailor Your Letter to the Job: Don’t use generic documents. Customize your letter to the job
- Showcase Your Achievements: Quantify what you’ve accomplished
- Keep It Concise: Be short and to the point
- End With a Call to Action: Ask for an interview and express your enthusiasm
Keep in mind that a cover letter must be accompanied by a resume. Our resume examples can help you explore ways to link your two documents without simply repeating the same information across the resume and letter.
Here is an example of how to write a cover letter so you can stand out.
Example cover letter
John Doe
123 Main St.
Los Angeles, California, 90001
johndoe@example.com
July 28, 2024
Jane Smith [Hiring Manager’s Name]
XYZ Company
123 Broadway Ave.
Los Angeles, California, 90001
Dear Jane Smith,
I am writing to express my interest in the graphic design position at XYZ Company. I have a degree in digital design and ten years of experience. I am confident in my ability to contribute to the company’s success.
In my previous role at DEF Company, I successfully produced visual assets for various marketing campaigns, helping the brand raise awareness and bolster revenue. My experience has equipped me with time management and project planning skills that perfectly align with the requirements of the graphic design position. I am particularly drawn to your company because of its stellar workplace culture and brand vision.
I have attached my resume for your review and would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and certifications can be in line with XYZ Company’s current projects and future objectives. Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team and am eager to discuss my background further.
Respectfully,
John Doe
Check out our library of cover letter examples to find templates that align with your industry and profession.
"The cover letter structure should complement your resume, directly linking your skills to the abilities mentioned in the job posting. It should also explain why you are an ideal candidate for that particular role."
Crafting a persuasive letter of interest
In a letter of interest, you should introduce yourself to the company and highlight how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for future opportunities. Here are some tips for writing a great letter of interest:
- Research the Company: Understand the company’s mission and values
- Highlight Your Skills: Provide a broad overview of your qualifications
- Be Enthusiastic: Express genuine interest in the business and explain your excitement
- Be Proactive: Mention that you would like to be considered for any future openings
- Follow Up: Indicate that you will reach out again after a certain period
Here’s an example of what your letter of interest might look like.
Example letter of interest
John Doe
123 Main St.
Los Angeles, California, 90001
July 28, 2024
Jane Smith [Hiring Manager’s Name]
XYZ Company
123 Broadway Ave.
Los Angeles, California, 90001
Dear Jane Smith,
I am writing to express my interest in exploring potential career opportunities with XYZ Company. With a solid background in graphic design and a passion for creating stellar marketing content, I am eager to bring my expertise to your dynamic team.
Throughout my career, I have developed a strong foundation in graphic design, content creation, and campaign planning. I am particularly impressed with your company’s commitment to transparency and customer service, and I am excited about the possibility of contributing to your brand-building efforts.
I would love the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and certifications would be an asset to your business. I am open to any future position that aligns with my qualifications, and I am enthusiastic about the possibility of joining your team.
Thank you for considering my interest in XYZ Company. I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you about how my experiences can contribute to your continued success.
Respectfully,
John Doe
This example provides a rough outline of what your letter might look like. A job letter template can help you personalize your letter of interest while ensuring that the document contains all of the relevant information.
Create compelling application docs with Jobseeker
While a letter of interest helps you proactively reach out to potential employers, a cover letter makes sense when applying to specific openings. Both documents should be tailored to reflect your qualifications and excitement, ensuring you make a positive impression.
Now that you know the difference between a statement of interest vs. cover letter, it’s time to decide which document best suits your career goals. If you’ve found a company you’d like to work for but it doesn’t have any current openings in a field relevant to you, a letter of interest makes the most sense. If you are applying to a listed vacancy, use a cover letter and resume.
Regardless of what document you need to create, Jobseeker can help you stand out from the competition. Our cover letter generator can produce an exceptional letter in minutes, saving you time while giving you confidence during the hiring process. Explore our cover letter and resume tools to make the most of every professional opportunity.
