How To Write a Great Letter of Intent for a Job

What Is a Letter of Intent?

When you see the phrase “letter of intent,” also called an LOI, its most common usage is actually in the real estate business and similar businesses that deal with large purchases. It is a non-binding agreement that states that two groups have a proposed transaction with each other. It will usually lay out basic terms for a business deal, including potential liabilities and often a purchase price. It is not until the two parties sign a purchase agreement that a definitive agreement will come into play.

However, in the realm of job searching, a letter of intent is a term used for either a cover letter or a letter of interest. It’s a letter you send to a hiring manager that outlines a little bit more about who you are, your work achievements, and why you can benefit the company. Understanding how to write these letters is a critical part of getting a great job.

How To Structure Your Letter of Intent

When you go to write your letter of intent, you need to follow a business letter format. Whether you’re writing for an entry-level job title or a job that requires many years of experience, here’s a letter of intent template to help you structure your letter of intent.

1. Header and salutation

   First will be your header and proper salutation. In the header, include your contact information, including your phone number and social media handles. Your salutation needs to be the hiring manager’s name if at all possible. Avoid generic phrases like “To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear Sir or Madam.” Instead, start the letter with “Dear Mr. Smith” or whatever the hiring manager’s name is.

2. Hook with your opening paragraph

   The first paragraph of your letter of interest should always have a statement that will really hook the reader. Specific examples of your skills and talent, like a really unique job task or a time when you successfully delivered on a major work requirement, will always be a great starting point. Your hook is something that will keep the hiring manager reading.

3. General overview of your skills and talents

   Next, move on to a general overview of your talents. This should show why the hiring manager should consider calling you for a job interview. Provide details about your best skills that align with the job listing you’re responding to or to a potential job you think you could help with. This section can also go over academic experience, experience with nonprofits, or volunteer experience. You’re using this paragraph to build your argument to the hiring manager, so include as much concise information about your work history and experience as you can.

4. Call to action

   The last paragraph is a call to action. This is where you actively ask for the job interview, reaching out in good faith and hoping to get a call back. Cover letters and letters of intent both need to utilize this call to action to effectively get the job. End the letter with a professional closing like “Sincerely,” and don’t use an overly friendly phrase like “Best wishes.”