Differences Between a Letter of Intent and a Cover Letter

How Can I Tell the Difference Between a Letter of Intent and a Cover Letter?

These descriptions generally lay out the difference between a letter of intent and a cover letter. However, there are some important key points that you can use to differentiate the two.

1. A cover letter is typically sent for an open job posting

   An open job posting is when a prospective employer actively advertises the fact that there’s an empty position at a company that they’re looking to fill. When you write a cover letter, you’re applying for an open position. There’s a job description you can read to learn more about the job, and the hiring manager is expecting that you’ll send in a cover letter. On the other hand, when you send in a letter of intent, you’re attempting to make a great first impression and mentioning a job position that’s not publicly being advertised for currently.

2. A letter of intent often focuses more on the company you’re applying to

   Before you write a letter of intent, you may do informational interviews, talk to human resources and look at the letter of intent examples to determine what the best way would be to catch the hiring manager’s attention. You’ll want to do research on the recruiter, so you know what information would catch their attention in a letter of intent.

3. A letter of intent typically has a broader purpose

   When you send in a cover letter, it has a singular important targeted intention. You want to talk about your years of experience, give your contact information, including your phone number, and showcase all of the important skills you have. The hope is that the hiring manager will see you are highly qualified for the position and give you a phone call to set up a job interview. However, a letter of intent template plans to start a conversation. Although the hope is that you’ll eventually get a job offer for a position that comes available, a letter of intent most prominently values the connection with a hiring manager.