Write your resume in 15 minutes
Our free collection of expertly designed resume templates will help you stand out from the crowd and get one step closer to your dream job.
In this guide, we will break down what each letter is, when to use them, and how to craft a compelling version of each.
What is a Letter of Intent?
A Letter of Intent (LOI) is a document expressing your interest in a job, internship, academic program, or business opportunity. Unlike a cover or letter of interest, which responds to a specific job posting, a letter of intent is typically more general and proactive. It introduces you as a candidate and conveys your enthusiasm for a particular company, or institution, even if no job or position is explicitly advertised.
When to Use It
A Letter of Intent is useful in situations such as:
- Unadvertised job opportunities – If you admire a company but don't see a listed opening, an LOI can express interest and keep you on their radar.
- Networking opportunities – When reaching out to a recruiter or employer at a networking event, an LOI can showcase your enthusiasm for future roles.
- Academic applications – Often required for graduate school applications, research programs, or internships.
- Business proposals – LOIs can also be used in negotiations, expressing intent to enter a formal agreement.
Key Components
A strong LOI includes:
- Introduction – Your purpose for writing.
- Your background – Relevant skills and experiences.
- Your interest in the company/institution – Why do you admire them and what value do you bring?
- A call to action – Requesting a meeting, interview, or further discussion.
What is a Cover Letter?
A Cover Letter own letter is a document that accompanies a job application and directly responds to a specific job posting. It highlights your qualifications, explains why you’re a strong fit for the role, and complements your resume by adding a personal touch to your application.
When to Use It
A Cover Letter is required when:
- Applying for a specific job – If a job posting explicitly asks for one.
- Providing additional details – When your resume alone may not sufficiently highlight your qualifications.
- Showing enthusiasm for a role – A cover letter allows you to express why you're excited about a position.
Key Components
An effective Cover Letter includes:
- Introduction – Mention the job you're applying for.
- Your relevant experience – Tailor it to the job description.
- Why you’re a great fit – Specific examples of your skills and accomplishments.
- Closing statement – A call to action, such as requesting an interview.
Key Differences Between a Letter of Intent and a Cover Letter
Your choice depends on the situation:
- If you're applying for a specific job → Use a Cover Letter.
- If you're expressing general interest in a company or program → Use a Letter of Intent.
- If the employer or institution requests one over the other → Follow their instructions carefully.
How to Write a Letter of Intent
- Start with a Professional Greeting – Address the hiring manager or relevant department by name if possible. If unsure, use a general but professional salutation like “Dear Hiring Manager.”
- Express Interest – Clearly state your interest in the company and why it appeals to you. Mention its mission, values, or industry reputation to show genuine enthusiasm.
- Highlight Skills – Focus on your key qualifications and how they align with the company’s goals. Briefly mention relevant experience, skills, or achievements that demonstrate your potential value.
- Encourage a Conversation – Politely request an opportunity to discuss potential roles. Express your willingness to connect and provide your resume for consideration.
- Keep It Concise and Professional – Maintain a clear and structured format, avoiding overly long paragraphs or unnecessary details. A well-organized letter that is direct and to the point increases the likelihood of it being read and considered.
Example:How to Write a Cover Letter
- Address the Hiring Manager – Use a formal greeting and, if possible, address the hiring manager by name. If the name is unknown, "Dear Hiring Manager" is an appropriate alternative.
- State the Position – Mention the job title and where you found the listing. This helps the employer quickly understand which role you are applying for.
- Showcase Your Qualifications – Highlight your most relevant skills and experiences with specific examples. Focus on how your background aligns with the job requirements and the company’s needs.
- Close with Confidence – Express enthusiasm for the opportunity and suggest an interview or follow-up conversation. Politely indicate your availability and interest in discussing the role further.
- Keep It Concise and Professional – Ensure your letter is well-structured, easy to read, and free of unnecessary details. A clear, professional tone leaves a strong impression.
Example:Examples & Templates
Example of a Letter of Intent
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Subject: Expression of Interest in Future Opportunities at [Company Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to express my keen interest in joining [Company Name]. With a background in [Your Field/Industry], I admire your company's commitment to [specific value or mission of the job and company values]. in a particular course, I believe my skills in [specific expertise] can contribute positively to your team.
Throughout my career at [Previous Company/Institution], I have [highlight one key achievement]. My ability to [specific skill] and passion for [industry-related detail] align well with the values career goals and company objectives of [Company Name].
I would love the opportunity to further discuss how my experience and enthusiasm can benefit your team. Please let me know a convenient time to connect. I have attached my resume for your reference and look forward to hearing from you.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example of a Cover Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Subject: Application for [Job Title] Position
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Job Listing Source]. With a strong background in [Your Field], I bring [mention a relevant experience or skill] that aligns with the role and dream company's requirements.
In my previous duties role at [Previous Company], I successfully [describe an achievement highlight relevant skills to the new job]. My expertise in [key skill] has enabled me to [specific impact you made in your previous role].
What excites me most about [Company Name] is your commitment to [mention specific company mission or values]. I am eager to bring my skills in [mention a relevant skill] to your team and contribute to [specific project or goal].
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my background and skills can benefit [Company Name]. Please find my resume attached. I look forward to your response and the possibility of joining your team.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Using Generic Language
Avoid vague or overused phrases that could apply to all job seekers for any company or position. Instead, research the company’s values, mission, and industry focus, then tailor your professional letter and language to reflect how your skills and experience align with their specific needs.
2. Ignoring Formatting Guidelines
A cluttered or unprofessional layout can make your document difficult to read. Use clear headings, consistent font styles, and appropriate spacing to ensure a polished and visually appealing presentation. Following any specific formatting instructions provided by the employer is also crucial.
3. Failing to Proofread
Spelling errors, typos, and grammatical mistakes can undermine your professionalism. Always take the time to carefully proofread your document or ask someone else to review it for clarity and accuracy before submission.
4. Being Too Vague
General statements without supporting details can weaken your impact. Instead of saying you “improved efficiency,” provide a specific example, such as a direct statement such as “implemented a new filing system that reduced processing time by 30%.” Using measurable results and clear examples makes your claims more credible and compelling.
5. Overloading with Unnecessary Information
Including too much irrelevant or outdated information can distract from your key qualifications. Focus on the most relevant skills, experiences professional skills, and accomplishments that align with the role you’re applying for. Keep your document concise and impactful by eliminating details that don’t add value to your application.
6. Not Tailoring to the Job
A one-size-fits-all resume won’t stand out. Customize your application for each role by incorporating industry-specific keywords and emphasizing experiences that match the job description. Even minor tweaks can increase your chances of getting noticed.
7. Failing to Highlight Achievements
Listing job duties without showcasing accomplishments makes your resume less compelling. Instead of saying “managed a team,” highlight in more detail the impact: “Led a team of five, improving project efficiency by 25%.” Demonstrating results shows your value to potential employers.
8. Using an Unprofessional Email Address
Your email address should be professional. Avoid casual ones like coolguy123@email.com and use a format like firstname.lastname@email.com to create a better impression. A small detail like this can influence how hiring managers perceive you.
9. Not Including Keywords from the Job Description
Many companies use ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) to filter resumes based on keywords. Review the job posting carefully and incorporate relevant terms, and interest examples, such as “SEO optimization” for a digital marketing role, to ensure your application gets past the initial screening.
10. Leaving Out Important Contact Information
Ensure your resume includes your phone number, professional email, LinkedIn profile (if applicable), and location (city/state if relevant). Missing or incorrect details can make it difficult for recruiters to reach you, costing you potential opportunities.
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between a Letter of Intent and a Cover Letter ensures you present yourself appropriately in job searches, networking, and academic applications. While both serve to introduce you to potential employers, choosing the right one for the right scenario can significantly improve your chances of success.
If you're unsure, carefully analyze the opportunity, tailor your document accordingly, and make a strong case for why you should be considered for a dream job.
