In today’s job market, standing out to employers is important. One way to do this is through a letter of intent (LOI), which lets you show your skills, interest, and excitement for a company. Whether you’re applying for a role or just exploring opportunities, knowing how to write a strong LOI can make a big difference.
In this article, we’ll cover the key elements of a great LOI and tips to help yours stand out.
What is a Letter of Intent?
A letter of intent (LOI), sometimes called a letter of interest, is a professional document expressing your enthusiasm to work for a company or organization.
Unlike a cover letter that addresses a specific job posting, a letter of intent focuses on your general interest in the company, your alignment with its goals, and how you can contribute to its success.
Think of a letter of intent as an introduction that opens the door to opportunities that might not yet exist. It’s especially useful when the company hasn’t advertised any openings in your field or when you’re exploring hidden job markets.
Cover Letter vs Letter of Intent vs Application Letter
Understanding the differences between a cover letter, a letter of intent, and an application letter is crucial to using the right document for the right purpose. While they may seem similar, each serves a distinct role in the job search process.
A cover letter is crafted specifically for a job opening. It explains how your skills and experiences make you the ideal candidate for the advertised position. The content is targeted and aligned with the role’s requirements.
A letter of intent, on the other hand, is more general. It conveys your interest in joining a company without referring to a specific position. It’s proactive and highlights your compatibility with the organization’s goals and values.
Finally, an application letter is formal and responds directly to a posted vacancy. It focuses on meeting the job description’s qualifications and is often required as part of the application process.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison to better understand their differences:
| Aspect | Cover Letter | Letter of Intent | Application Letter |
| Purpose | Tailored to a specific job posting | Expresses general interest in the company | Responds to a specific job posting |
| Focus | Showcases fit for the role | Highlights overall compatibility with the company | Explains how qualifications meet job requirements |
| Tone | Direct and targeted | Broad and exploratory | Formal and specific |
| When to Use | For advertised job vacancies | When no specific role is advertised | For required application submissions |
| Audience | Hiring manager for the advertised role | HR or general management | Recruitment officer for the specific role |
When is It Necessary to Write a Letter of Intent?
A letter of intent isn’t always required but can be a strategic move in several scenarios:
- Exploring Potential Opportunities: When you admire a company and want to be considered for roles that may arise in the future.
- Networking Follow-Ups: After meeting recruiters or company representatives at networking events or job fairs, a letter of intent can reinforce your interest and leave a positive impression.
- Career Transitions: If you’re changing industries, a letter of intent helps explain how your transferable skills align with the company’s needs.
- Proactive Outreach: Some companies welcome unsolicited applications as part of their talent acquisition strategy.
Key Components of a Letter of Intent for a Job Application
To craft an effective letter of intent, include the following elements:
Formal Greeting
Begin your letter by addressing it to a specific person, such as the hiring manager or department head. This demonstrates that you’ve taken the time to research and personalize your application.
Avoid generic salutations like “To Whom It May Concern” as they come across as impersonal.
If you’re unable to find the recipient’s name, use professional titles such as “Dear Dr. Smith” or “Dear Hiring Manager” to maintain a formal tone.
Compelling Introduction
Your introduction should immediately capture the reader’s attention.
Start with a strong, engaging statement that sets the tone for the rest of the letter. Briefly introduce yourself, mentioning your current role or recent accomplishments that are relevant to the position.
Additionally, indicate how you discovered the opportunity or why you’re drawn to the company.
For example, you might say, “As a senior project manager passionate about sustainable development, I am excited to apply for the Project Lead role at Ayala Corporation.”
Relevant Skills and Achievements
The body of your letter should emphasize the skills and accomplishments that make you a strong candidate for the role.
Focus on specific examples that demonstrate your ability to contribute to the company’s success. Highlight measurable achievements where possible, such as, “In my previous role as a digital marketing specialist, I implemented a campaign that increased online engagement by 40% within six months.”
Tailoring this section to the job description will show the employer you are a perfect match for their needs.
Alignment with the Company
Show that you’ve done your homework by referencing the company’s mission, values, or recent initiatives. Explain how these align with your professional goals and experiences.
For instance, if the company emphasizes sustainability, you could mention your background in green initiatives or eco-friendly projects.
This section demonstrates not only your enthusiasm but also your compatibility with the organization’s objectives and culture.
Call to Action
Close your letter by expressing your eagerness to discuss potential opportunities further. Invite the reader to schedule a meeting or interview, and provide your availability to make it convenient for them. Include your contact information to ensure they can easily reach you.
A sentence like, “I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to your team and am available at your convenience for a discussion,” conveys professionalism and interest.
Professional Closing
End your letter with gratitude and a formal closing.
Thank the reader for their time and consideration, showing appreciation for their review of your application. Use a professional closing phrase such as “Sincerely,” “Best regards,” or “Yours truly,” followed by your full name.
This final touch leaves a positive impression and signals that you take the opportunity seriously.
Sample Letter of Intent Format and Structure
| [Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] [Your Email Address] [Your Phone Number] [Date] [Recipient’s Name] [Recipient’s Title] [Company Name] [Company Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] Dear [Recipient’s Name], I am writing to express my keen interest in joining [Company Name]. With [number of years] of experience in [your field/industry] and a strong passion for [specific company-related aspects, e.g., innovation, sustainability], I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team. Over the past [number] years, I have honed my skills in [specific skill, e.g., project management, customer relations], achieving [specific result, e.g., a 20% increase in client satisfaction]. My expertise in [area] aligns with [specific company goal or value]. In my most recent role, I [describe achievement]. These experiences have prepared me to bring value to your organization, particularly in [specific area of interest to the company]. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences align with your team’s needs. I am available for a meeting at your convenience and can be reached at [your phone number] or [your email]. Thank you for considering my application. Sincerely, [Your Name] |
Tips for Writing a Strong Letter of Intent
Research the Company Thoroughly
Thoroughly researching the company is essential to crafting a tailored and effective letter. Studies show that 76% of recruiters believe personalization is a top factor in evaluating job applications.
For example, if the company recently increased its revenue by 15% year-on-year or launched a project to expand into new markets, highlight how your skills can contribute to that growth.
Referencing specific achievements, like awards or industry recognition, signals that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in their success.
Highlight Transferable Skills
If you’re transitioning into a new industry, emphasize transferable skills that apply to the company’s needs. For instance, if you’re moving from sales to marketing, showcase your ability to analyze customer behavior.
It’s also important to use quantifiable data to validate your claims, such as, “My leadership skills and ability to develop creative strategies led to a 15% increase in team productivity over two quarters.”
This approach demonstrates your value, regardless of the industry shift.
Keep It Clear and Concise
A compelling letter should be concise and professional, typically no more than one page. Avoid complex language or industry jargon that might confuse the reader. Instead, focus on clarity, stating achievements with measurable results like, “I managed a project budget of ₱2 million, completing deliverables 20% ahead of schedule while maintaining quality standards.”
According to an eyetracking study, hiring managers only spend 6 to 7 seconds scanning an application letter, so prioritize impactful information over lengthy descriptions.
Personalize Every Letter
Generic letters fail to stand out, so ensure each letter is tailored to the specific company and role. Address the letter to the correct recipient, reference the company’s recent achievements, and align your skills with their needs.
This personal touch shows you’ve made an effort and understand the company’s unique culture.
Use Strong, Active Verbs
Active verbs are crucial for highlighting your accomplishments and making your application stand out. They show initiative and results rather than just listing responsibilities.
For example, instead of saying, “Was responsible for project management,” say, “Spearheaded a project that improved efficiency by 25%.” This creates a stronger, action-oriented impression.
Harvard Business School provides an extensive list of action verbs tailored for different industries as a guide for applicants
Proofread and Edit
Proofreading shows you’re professional and careful. Tools like Grammarly can catch basic errors, but having a friend or mentor check your letter is even better. They can spot unclear parts or mistakes you might miss.
Taking the time to proofread and edit can make your application look polished and leave a good impression.
Build Your Career at Visaya KPO
Visaya KPO is a global solutions company that values the Filipino trait of malasakit, which means genuine care and compassion for others. We provide a supportive workplace where your growth and well-being matter. Be part of a team that appreciates your efforts and invests in your success.
Join our team today!
