How do you address a letter of interest to the hiring manager?

It's best to address a letter of interest directly to the hiring manager by using their full name. As a letter of interest implies a special interest in this company, in particular, using a generic 'to whom it may concern' or 'dear sir/madam' is likely to make them think that you didn't do your research.Most company websites will list who their hiring managers are, but if that fails, you can always try LinkedIn. If you can't find it that way, then you can always try calling the company. If you're willing to take the time to do that so that you can properly address your letter of interest, it'll likely reflect well on you.

What are informational interviews for letters of interest?

Informational interviews are interviews done with current employees to find out more about the company. If it's specifically for a letter of interest, then it'll be focused on finding out how to write an excellent letter of interest.That means you want information about the company and the hiring manager so that you can address it properly and highlight relevant skills and experience that you possess.

How often should I send letters of interest?

Letters of interest should be sent out regularly. Any time you run into a company that you believe you'd like to work for, you can send them a letter of interest. However, be sure to see if they have a relevant position already listed before doing this, as it could reflect poorly on you if they do; it'll show a lack of <a href="https://wordpress-1250819-5972544.cloudwaysapps.com/attention-to-detail/">attention to detail</a>.It should also be noted that many online systems don't have any real way to send letters of interest. Be sure to check the company guidelines to make sure that they don't ask prospective employees not to send letters of interest. Ignoring their request will not endear you to the hiring manager.

Letter Of Interest Vs. Cover Letter: What’s The Difference?

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Are you contemplating a career change or seeking new job opportunities? As you explore potential employers and refine your resume, you might wonder: should I include a cover letter or a letter of interest? Or is a letter even necessary?

Generally, including a letter is advisable, but the choice between a cover letter and a letter of interest depends on your application circumstances.

If you’re applying for a specific job opening, a cover letter is appropriate. Conversely, a letter of interest is suitable if you want to express your interest in a company without an active job posting. Letters of interest demonstrate your enthusiasm for the company and your desire to be contacted when a position becomes available.

Key Takeaways:

Letter of Interest	Cover Letter
Used when no relevant position is currently open.	Sent when applying for a specific, advertised position.
Acts as a sales pitch to encourage the hiring manager to consider you for future roles.	Supplementary to your resume, detailing soft skills and qualifications for the specific job.
Addressed directly to the hiring manager.	Best addressed to the hiring manager, but lack of personalization may not disqualify your application.
Useful when job postings are limited.	Used when a job is prominently advertised.
Keep it concise – generally one page.	Should also be brief, ideally not exceeding one page.

What Is a Letter of Interest?

Letters of interest are less common than cover letters and may also be referred to as inquiry letters or letters of introduction. These letters are more abstract than cover letters.

The primary purpose of a letter of interest is to express your specific interest in the organization, rather than a particular job opening. It aims to keep you on their radar for future opportunities.

Letters of interest can also be beneficial if you learn about an upcoming job. Submitting a letter of interest serves as a preemptive application, potentially placing you at the forefront of candidates when the position is officially posted.

To create an impactful letter of interest, consider the following:

Conduct thorough research. Clearly indicate your knowledge of the company’s goals, culture, and achievements.
Identify and address the appropriate recipient. This shows you’ve done your homework and personalizes your letter, increasing the chance it will be remembered.
Highlight your qualifications. Think of this letter as a sales pitch; articulate why you would be a valuable addition to their team.
Discuss relevant experience. Highlight experience that makes you a strong candidate, emphasizing how it aligns with the company’s needs.
Introduce yourself effectively. Share how your personality and skills align with the company culture and potential job openings.
Express gratitude. Thank the recipient for their time, acknowledging the non-urgent nature of the letter.

For example:

Dear Mr. Stanley Jones,

My name is June Cooper, and I am a recent graduate from Mary Baldwin University with a degree in English, seeking a position in the marketing department.

I have consistently heard positive feedback about Bright Electronics. Your innovative approach and attention to detail are precisely the environment I aspire to join.

For the past two years, I have worked as an administrative assistant. I believe my organizational skills and writing abilities position me as an ideal candidate for your team.

I would appreciate the opportunity to be considered for future openings and to contribute to your esteemed company. Please feel free to reach out if you require any additional information.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best regards,

June Cooper
LinkedIn
jcooper@email.com
555-555-5555

What Is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a document accompanying your application for a specific job opening. It complements your resume by elaborating on your soft skills and demonstrating your interest in the company.

Cover letters should be concise and direct, ideally one page in length. Including only the most pertinent information is essential.

In a cover letter, you should:

Personalize the greeting. If possible, address it directly to the hiring manager. If you’re unsure, make your best effort to find out who it is.
Highlight relevant skills and experiences. Use this opportunity to mention skills and experiences not detailed in your resume.
Explain your fit for the role. In your closing paragraph, discuss how your qualifications make you a suitable candidate for the position.
Express gratitude. Thank the recipient for their time and consideration; this courteous gesture can leave a lasting impression.

For example:

Samantha Gordon
4200 Cypress St.
Charlottesville, VA 22903

Phone: (847) 445-9607Email: srgordon@email.email

University of Virginia School of Medicine

Dear Mr. James Freeman,

I am writing to express my interest in the intermediate administrative assistant position listed on your human resources site.

My organizational skills and problem-solving abilities make me confident in my effectiveness in this role.

As an aspiring novelist, I have honed my written communication and typing speed, and I am proficient with Microsoft Word and OpenOffice Writer.

I have long admired the University of Virginia and would love the opportunity to contribute to such a respected institution in the field of medicine.

Thank you for your time, and I look forward to your response.

Samantha Gordon

Letter of Interest vs. Cover Letter FAQ

How do you address a letter of interest to the hiring manager?

It’s best to address a letter of interest directly to the hiring manager using their full name. This personal touch shows your genuine interest in the company and your diligence in research.

Company websites often list their hiring managers, but if that information is unavailable, consider checking LinkedIn or calling the company for clarification.
What are informational interviews for letters of interest?

Informational interviews involve speaking with current employees to gain insight into the company. For a letter of interest, focus on gathering details that will help you craft an effective letter.
How often should I send letters of interest?

Letters of interest should be sent out regularly. If you encounter a company you admire, don’t hesitate to send a letter of interest. Just ensure they don’t already have relevant job postings to avoid appearing uninformed.

Keep in mind that many online application systems may not support unsolicited letters of interest. Always check the company’s application guidelines to respect their preferences.

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Author

Di Doherty

Di has been a writer for more than half her life. Most of her writing so far has been fiction, and she’s gotten short stories published in online magazines Kzine and Silver Blade, as well as a flash fiction piece in the Bookends review. Di graduated from Mary Baldwin College (now University) with a degree in Psychology and Sociology.

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