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This question is about how to write a cover letter.
Cover Letter vs. Letter of Intent
The difference between a cover letter and a letter of intent is crucial during the interviewing and job searching process. Both deal with writing letters that introduce yourself and your past experiences, but the two of them are provided at different times and represent different things.
Cover letters are given when you are interviewing for a specific position, and focus on that position directly. On the other hand, letters of intent are not written focusing on a specific position, but rather on working for the company in general and looking for positions if one becomes available.
Key Takeaways
| Cover Letter | Letter of Intent |
|---|---|
| Given solely at the beginning of the hiring process, often along with a resume. | Can be provided at any point. |
| Cover letters focus on a specific position, and are tailored to that. | Letters of Intent are broader and focus on the company over a specific position. |
| The focus is on yourself, your past experiences, and how those prepare you for the specific role for which you are applying. | Letters of Intent focus on the company and may include bits about what you know about them and why you are interested in them specifically. |
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