is letter of intent and application letter the same

Cover Letter vs. Letter of Interest vs. Letter of Intent

By Status.net Editorial Team on October 1, 2023 — 12 minutes to read

So, you’re job hunting and wondering about the difference between a letter of interest and a cover letter. Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Many people are often confused about these two seemingly similar yet distinct job application tools. In this article, we will delve into the definitions, tips, and examples of each, providing you with the know-how to confidently use them in your job search.

 Cover Letter vs. Letter of Interest vs. Letter of Intent

• A cover letter is a document that you submit alongside your resume when applying for a specific job. This letter allows you to describe your skills, experiences, and enthusiasm for the position. It’s a chance to tailor your application to the requirements of the job.
• Learn more: How To Write a Cover Letter [Best Templates]
• A letter of interest (sometimes called an inquiry letter or prospecting letter) is a document expressing your interest in working for a company, even if there isn’t a specific job opening. This letter serves as an introduction to who you are, your expertise, and how you could be a valuable asset to the organization if an opportunity arises. In academic contexts, a letter of interest may be used when contacting potential research advisors or expressing interest in a particular research project.
• Learn more: Letter of Interest: Best Templates and Tips
• A letter of intent (LOI) is a document that expresses an individual’s or organization’s serious intention to engage in a particular activity or formal agreement. It is often used in legal and business contexts. In the context of academic applications or research proposals, an LOI may outline the applicant’s intention to apply for a specific program or funding opportunity, providing an overview of their plans and qualifications.
• Learn more: How to Write a Letter of Intent (Best Templates)

Letter of Interest vs. Cover Letter: Real Life Examples and Tips

When you’re on the job hunt, it’s essential to understand the difference between a letter of interest and a cover letter. Here are some real-life examples and tips to help you navigate these two valuable tools in your search for employment:

• You come across a job posting that catches your eye. Before you apply, you’ll need to prepare a cover letter tailored to the specific requirements mentioned in the job listing.
• However, when researching companies you’d like to work for, you might not always find an active job posting fitting your skills or interests. In this case, you’ll want to craft a letter of interest to communicate your desire to work for the company in the future.
• For example, imagine you are interested in working for a newly expanding company but are unaware of current job openings. In this situation, you would send a letter of interest highlighting your desire to be a part of their growth, offering your value and what you can bring to the table. This could potentially lead to an informational interview or being considered for future opportunities not yet advertised.
• On the contrary, if you come across an open job listing that fits your skills and experience, you will create a cover letter tailored to that specific position. In this case, your cover letter should discuss why you are the ideal candidate and how your experience aligns with the requirements of the listed job opening.
• While both tools are essential for your job search, remember to adjust your approach based on the situation. If you’re responding to a specific job posting, write a detailed cover letter that highlights your relevant skills and experience. Alternatively, when reaching out to a company that may not have any openings, focus on crafting a compelling letter of interest to signal your genuine desire to work for them.
• Related: Get More Interviews: Follow Up on Job Applications (Templates)

Key Elements of a Cover Letter

Introduction segment in a cover letter.

Start your cover letter with a strong intro that grabs the reader’s attention. Introduce yourself and briefly mention the job opening you’re applying for. This is your chance to make a strong first impression, so be concise and engaging. You can also establish a connection with the organization by stating how you found out about the job application or any previous encounters you had with them.

Job Tailored Statement in a Cover Letter

In this section, focus on the specific job opening and explain why you are the right fit for it. Highlight your relevant professional experience by discussing your achievements and how they align with the role you’re applying for. Don’t simply repeat your resume – instead, provide context and connect the dots for the reader. Show your enthusiasm for the role and your knowledge of the organization’s values and objectives.

Qualifications Showcase in a Cover Letter

Now it’s time to showcase your qualifications. Go beyond listing degrees and certifications by detailing the relevant skills and experiences that make you uniquely suited for this role. Relate your qualifications to the job requirements and provide examples of how you’ve applied them in your previous experiences. This will strengthen your case and give the reader a better understanding of your capabilities.

Closing Remarks in a Cover Letter

End your cover letter on a confident and positive note. Reiterate your interest in the role and briefly summarize your main points. Include a call to action, such as expressing your desire to discuss your candidacy further in an interview. This can solidify your proactive attitude and showcase your enthusiasm for the opportunity. Finally, thank the reader for considering your application and sign off with a professional closing like “Sincerely” or “Best regards.”

Key Elements of a Letter of Interest

The passionate beginning.

When composing your letter of interest, start confidently and make sure to show your enthusiasm right from the beginning. Focus on conveying your genuine passion for the company’s mission and your interest in the role. A compelling opening sets the stage for the reader to engage with the rest of your letter.

For example:

As a long-time admirer of X Corporation’s commitment to sustainability, I couldn’t resist the opportunity to express my interest in joining the environmental team and contributing to your company’s expanding eco-initiatives.

Desire for the Role within the Company

Discuss your dedication to the industry and highlight your relevant work experience which demonstrates your commitment. By displaying your knowledge about the company, you showcase your investment in becoming a valuable team member. Align your skills with the company’s goals and reflect on how you can contribute to its growth.

Your mission of reducing waste and promoting environmental awareness aligns perfectly with my own career aspirations. With five years of experience as a sustainability coordinator, I believe my expertise in waste reduction programs could bring significant value to X Corporation.

Why You Stand Out

Now’s the time to sell yourself by emphasizing your unique qualities and achievements. Highlight relevant work experiences, educational accomplishments, and significant contributions you’ve made in previous roles. Make sure to connect the dots between your experiences and the job or company.

During my tenure at GreenTech, I was awarded the 2022 Eco-Innovator award due to my successful implementation of a recycling program which increased waste diversion by 75%. I desire to bring my innovative mindset and dedication to sustainability to X Corporation as we work together towards a greener future.

The Strategic Conclusion

In the final section of your letter of interest, reiterate your excitement about the role and the company’s mission. Leave an impression that you are a great fit for future opportunities and maintain a forward-looking approach. Include a call-to-action inviting a meeting or further discussion.

Thank you for considering my interest in X Corporation. I am eager to discuss further how my skills and experiences align with your environmental objectives. Please find my resume attached for your review, and I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team in the future.

Key Elements for Every Professional Written Document

When crafting a professional document, whether it’s a Letter of Interest or a Cover Letter, there are several critical components to consider. These elements will help you present your skill set and experience effectively, showcasing the best version of yourself to potential employers.

• Clarity is crucial in written communication. Make sure your document is easy to understand and well-structured. Use concise sentences and avoid jargon whenever possible. Address your letter to the appropriate person, title, and department so that it reaches the right hands.
• Next, highlight your skills and experience as they relate to the position you’re applying for. When listing your accomplishments, try to focus on specific instances where you achieved measurable results. This will give hiring managers a clear picture of your capabilities and demonstrate your potential for success in their organization. Present your work history and educational background in a manner that showcases your growth and progress.
• Then, focus on customization . Tailor each document to the particular company or role you’re applying to, instead of using generic templates. Research the company’s culture, values, and mission, and incorporate them into your writing. This will show genuine interest and demonstrate how your skills align with their specific needs.
• Lastly, consider using formatting options like bullet points, bold text, or tables. This can help emphasize important information and provide visual relief within the document, making it easier to read and understand.

Pitstops: Review and Follow Up

As you craft your letter of interest or cover letter, it’s essential to review your work to ensure it speaks to the recruiter, hiring manager, or potential employer. Double-check for any errors in grammar or formatting and that you effectively communicate your qualities and suitability for the position or company.

Make sure to address the letter to the appropriate person. Use the hiring manager’s name when possible rather than resorting to “To whom it may concern.” If you’re unsure of the correct name, try researching online or tapping into your professional network for details.

Tailoring your letter to the specific company and position is key. Research the organization’s values, mission, and goals to align your content with the employer’s expectations. Demonstrate how you can benefit the organization and express enthusiasm for the potential opportunity.

A strong call to action at the end of your letter provides an opportunity for further conversation. Don’t be hesitant to express your interest in an interview or follow-up conversation. This shows initiative and helps you stand out as an active and motivated job seeker.

Once you’ve sent your letter, be patient but proactive. If you do not receive a response within a reasonable time frame, it’s acceptable to follow up with a polite email or phone call. This demonstrates your continued interest and persistence, both qualities that are likely to be appreciated by employers.

Remember, the key is to be confident, knowledgeable, neutral, and clear. Your professionalism and attention to detail will be noticed, and your efforts may pave the way to new opportunities in your professional journey.

Final Thoughts on Crafting a Solid Letter of Interest and Cover Letter

When it comes to showcasing your career aspirations and abilities, creating a great letter of interest and cover letter is essential. By understanding the differences and strategically using them, you can stand out and make a lasting impression on potential employers.

In your letter of interest, focus on the company’s mission statement, culture and values. Researching their social media presence and website will help you align your own career goals with the company’s mission. Highlight your education, portfolio and any skills that might be relevant to their job description. Be sure to include specific numbers and examples that showcase your expertise to make your letter stand out.

For the cover letter, make sure you tailor it specifically to the job description and the company you are applying to. Emphasize how your professional background and hard skills make you an ideal candidate for the position. Remember to incorporate relevant achievements from your resume to add weight to your application.

Properly formatting both your letter of interest and cover letter is crucial. Employ various formatting techniques like tables, bullet points, and bold text to make it easy for the reader to understand and grasp the information you’re presenting. Be succinct and to the point; clarity is vital when explaining your career goals and professional expertise.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to crafting engaging, professional letters that will enhance your career search and open doors to new opportunities.

Related: How To Write a Cover Letter [Best Templates]

Letter of Interest (Best Templates and Tips)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. what are the key elements to include in a letter of interest.

When writing a letter of interest, make sure to include these key elements:

• Your contact information: name, phone number, email, and address.
• Salutation: address the recipient with their formal title, such as “Dear Mr. Smith”.
• Opening paragraph: grab the reader’s attention and state the purpose of your letter.
• Qualifications: mention your relevant background, experience and skills.
• Connection to the company: express your enthusiasm and knowledge about the company.
• Closing paragraph: reiterate your interest and provide a call to action, such as requesting an informational interview.
• Complimentary close and signature: use professional terms like “Sincerely” and sign your full name.

2. How does a cover letter differ from a letter of intent?

A cover letter is typically written in response to a specific job opening, where you highlight your qualifications and tailor your experiences to the job requirements. Meanwhile, a letter of interest (also known as a letter of intent) is written when there isn’t a specific job advertisement, but you’re interested in a particular company or field. A letter of interest reveals your passion for the company/industry and explores potential opportunities.

3. Can you provide examples of effective cover letters?

You can find examples and templates here: How To Write a Cover Letter [Best Templates]

4. What are some essential tips for writing a letter of interest for a teaching position?

To write an effective letter of interest for a teaching position, follow these tips:

• Research the school: gather information about the school’s mission, goals, and programs to tailor your letter.
• Emphasize relevant experiences: describe your teaching background, classroom management skills, and student-centered approach.
• Showcase your passion: express your enthusiasm for teaching and relate it to the school’s objectives.
• Provide specific examples: use anecdotes to demonstrate how you’ve made a positive impact in students’ lives.
• Proofread carefully: ensure your letter is free from errors and professionally written.

5. How do you tailor a letter of interest for an internship or promotion?

To tailor your letter of interest for an internship or promotion, consider these steps:

• Address the recipient appropriately: find out the name and role of the person responsible for internships or promotions.
• Include relevant experiences: mention previous accomplishments or projects you’ve taken part in that align with the internship/promotion.
• Showcase your motivation: display your eagerness to grow and learn from the opportunity.
• Highlight company-specific knowledge or skills: show that you’ve done your research and understand the company’s culture or industry.

6. Are there any helpful templates for creating a letter of interest in Word?

Yes, there are several useful templates for creating a letter of interest in Microsoft Word. To access these templates, follow these steps:

• Open Microsoft Word and click on “File”.
• Select “New” from the menu on the left.
• In the Search bar, type “Letter of Interest” or similar keywords.
• Browse the available templates and choose one that suits your needs.
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• Post author: admin777
• Post published: 08/06/2024
• Post category: Cover letter
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Cover Letter vs. Letter of Intent: Understanding the Key Differences

Navigating the job application process can be daunting, especially when it comes to preparing the necessary documents. Among the essential components are the cover letter and the letter of intent. While these documents may seem similar at first glance, they serve distinct purposes and are tailored for different situations. In this guide, we’ll explore the differences between a cover letter and a letter of intent to help you understand when and how to use each effectively.

What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a formal document that accompanies your resume when applying for a job. It provides an opportunity to introduce yourself to the hiring manager, showcase your qualifications, and express your interest in the position.

The primary purpose of a cover letter is to complement your resume by highlighting specific experiences, skills, and achievements that make you a strong candidate for the job. It allows you to tailor your application to the specific requirements of the position and company.

A typical cover letter includes the following components:

• Header: Your contact information and the recipient’s details.
• Salutation: Greeting the hiring manager by name, if possible.
• Introduction: A brief introduction stating the position you’re applying for and how you learned about it.
• Body Paragraphs: Highlighting your relevant experiences, skills, and achievements.
• Closing Paragraph: Expressing your enthusiasm for the opportunity and requesting an interview.
• Closing: Ending with a professional closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” followed by your name.

What is a Letter of Intent?

A letter of intent (LOI), also known as a statement of purpose or personal statement, is a document used to express your intentions, goals, and aspirations in a specific context. While commonly associated with academic or business purposes, LOIs can also be used in job applications.

The purpose of a letter of intent in the context of job applications is to express your sincere interest in a particular position or company. Unlike a cover letter, which focuses on your qualifications, an LOI allows you to articulate your motivations, career goals , and alignment with the company’s values and mission.

A letter of intent typically includes the following elements:

• Introduction: A brief introduction stating the purpose of the letter and the position or program you’re interested in.
• Background: Providing context about your background, experiences, and career goals.
• Alignment: Explaining why you’re interested in the position or company and how it aligns with your values and career objectives.
• Closing Statement: Reiterating your enthusiasm for the opportunity and your readiness to contribute.
• Closing: Ending with a professional closing, similar to a cover letter.

Key Differences Between a Cover Letter and a Letter of Intent

• Cover Letter: Focuses on your qualifications, skills, and experiences relevant to the job.
• Letter of Intent: Focuses on your motivations, career goals, and alignment with the company’s values and mission.
• Cover Letter: Emphasizes specific achievements, experiences, and skills that make you a strong candidate.
• Letter of Intent: Provides insight into your personality, aspirations, and reasons for pursuing the opportunity.
• Cover Letter: Generally more formal and professional in tone, tailored to the requirements of the job.
• Letter of Intent: Can be more personal and introspective, allowing you to express your passion and enthusiasm.

When to Use Each Document

Cover letter.

• Use a cover letter when applying for a specific job opening.
• Tailor your cover letter to highlight the qualifications and experiences most relevant to the position.

Letter of Intent

• Use a letter of intent when expressing interest in a company or industry without applying for a specific job.
• Customize your letter of intent to demonstrate your understanding of the company’s values and your alignment with its mission.

What is the main difference between a cover letter and a letter of intent?

A cover letter focuses on your qualifications and experiences relevant to a specific job, while a letter of intent expresses your motivations, career goals, and alignment with a company’s values.

Do I need to include both a cover letter and a letter of intent in my job application?

No, it’s not necessary to include both documents. Choose the one that best fits the context of your application.

Can I use a letter of intent instead of a cover letter?

In some cases, yes. If you’re expressing interest in a company or industry without applying for a specific job, a letter of intent may be more appropriate.

Should I address a cover letter and a letter of intent differently?

Yes, tailor the content and tone of each document to suit its purpose. A cover letter should be addressed to the hiring manager, while a letter of intent may be addressed more broadly to the company or relevant stakeholders.

How long should a cover letter and a letter of intent be?

Both documents should be concise and focused. Aim for no more than one page for each document, keeping your content relevant and impactful.

Can I use the same content for both a cover letter and a letter of intent?

While there may be some overlap in content, it’s important to customize each document to its intended purpose. Tailor your cover letter to the specific job requirements and your letter of intent to demonstrate your passion and alignment with the company.

Understanding the differences between a cover letter and a letter of intent is crucial for effectively communicating your qualifications and motivations in the job application process. While both documents serve distinct purposes, they can complement each other to present a comprehensive picture of your candidacy. By knowing when and how to use each document, you can maximize your chances of success in landing your dream job .

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The Art of Appreciation: Crafting the Perfect Thank You Note

A well-written thank you note** is a powerful tool that expresses gratitude** and strengthens relationships**. Thank you notes** are especially important in the professional world, following a job interview** or receiving help with your job search**. Taking the time to write a thank you note** shows professionalism and courtesy**, leaving a positive lasting impression.

When to Send a Thank You Note

There are several situations where a thank you note** is appropriate in the job search :

• After a Job Interview: Thank the interviewer for their time and reiterate your interest** in the position.
• After Informational Interview: Thank the person for their insights into the industry or company.
• After Receiving Help: Thank someone who offered guidance or support during your job search .

Remember: A thank you note** should be sent promptly**, ideally within 24 hours after the interview or interaction.

Crafting Your Message: What to Include

A thank you note** should be concise and to the point**, yet sincere and personalized**. Here’s a basic structure to follow:

• Salutation: Address the interviewer or contact person by name (Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name).
• Express Gratitude: Thank the person for their time and consideration.
• Reiterate Your Interest: Briefly mention why you’re interested in the position or the company.
• Highlight a Specific Detail: Mention something specific** discussed in the interview or conversation to show you were paying attention.
• Call to Action: Briefly reiterate your qualifications and availability for the next steps.
• Closing: Sign off with a professional closing** (Sincerely, Best Regards).

Dear Ms. Jones,

Thank you for taking the time to interview me for the Marketing Associate position yesterday. I enjoyed learning more about the role and the exciting projects your team is working on.

As we discussed, my experience in social media marketing and content creation aligns perfectly with the requirements of the position. I am particularly enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to [mention a specific project or company initiative].

Thank you again for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

[Your Name]

Beyond the Basics: Tips for Standing Out

Here are some additional tips to make your thank you note** stand out:

• Personalize it: Go beyond a generic template**. Mention something specific you learned or discussed during the interview.
• Proofread Carefully: Ensure your note is free of typos and grammatical errors. A mistake-free thank you note** demonstrates your attention to detail.
• Handwritten vs. Email: While email thank you notes** are acceptable, a handwritten note** can make a stronger impression, especially after an in-person interview.

Remember: A thank you note** is an opportunity to make a final positive impression**. By following these tips, you can craft a thank you note** that expresses your gratitude** and positions you for success** in your job search.

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Unveiling the Mystery: Cover Letter vs. Letter of Intent

While both cover letters and letters of intent play a role in your job search, understanding the key differences between them is crucial for landing that perfect interview. Let’s unveil the mystery surrounding these documents.

The Targeted Approach: Cover Letters

A cover letter functions as a targeted introduction tailored to a specific job opening. Here’s how it shines:

Highlighting Qualifications: A well-crafted cover letter emphasizes your skills and experience directly related to the advertised position. You can showcase how your background aligns with the requirements outlined in the job description.

Demonstrating Enthusiasm: A cover letter allows you to express your enthusiasm** for the specific company and the opportunity . This personalized approach sets you apart from a stack of generic resumes.

Example 1: Targeting a Marketing Role

Imagine Sarah applying for a marketing associate position. Her cover letter highlights her experience in social media marketing and content creation , skills explicitly mentioned in the job description. She also mentions her admiration for the company’s recent marketing campaign , demonstrating genuine interest.

The Proactive Approach: Letters of Intent

On the other hand, a letter of intent , also known as a letter of interest , takes a more proactive approach.

Expressing General Interest: Unlike a cover letter, a letter of intent isn’t tied to a specific job opening. It’s a way to express your general interest** in working for a particular company, even if there aren’t any current openings advertised.

Highlighting Potential: A letter of intent focuses on your potential value to the company. You can showcase your skills and experience and explain how you could contribute to their overall goals, even in a role that hasn’t been defined yet.

Example 2: Expressing Interest in a Tech Startup

David, a passionate software developer , might send a letter of intent to a tech startup he admires. His letter highlights his coding skills and passion for innovation**, emphasizing how he can contribute to the company’s growth, even if there aren’t open developer positions at the moment.

In essence , a cover letter is a targeted application for a specific job, while a letter of intent expresses your interest in a company in the hopes of sparking a future opportunity. By understanding these differences, you can choose the right document to navigate your job search effectively.

Understanding the Difference Between a Cover Letter and a Letter of Intent

When diving into the realm of job applications, it’s crucial to understand the nuances between various documents you might encounter. Two such documents that often cause confusion are the cover letter and the letter of intent. While both serve as written introductions, they have distinct purposes and formats that can make or break your application success.

A cover letter is a concise document that accompanies your resume when applying for a job. It serves as a personalized introduction to the hiring manager, highlighting your qualifications and expressing your interest in the position. A well-crafted cover letter can distinguish you from other candidates and showcase your enthusiasm for the role.

Unlike a resume, which outlines your work experience and skills in bullet points, a cover letter allows you to delve deeper into your motivations and aspirations. It’s your opportunity to tell a compelling story about why you’re the perfect fit for the job and how your background aligns with the company’s values and objectives.

For example, if you’re applying for a marketing position, your cover letter might emphasize your creativity , analytical skills, and previous successful campaigns. You could also mention specific projects or achievements that demonstrate your ability to drive results and contribute to the company’s growth.

On the other hand, a letter of intent is more comprehensive and formal than a cover letter. It’s typically used in situations where you’re expressing your interest in a specific program, school, or job opportunity. While a cover letter focuses on a particular job opening, a letter of intent provides a broader overview of your career goals, academic achievements, and professional aspirations.

Letter of intent examples include applying for graduate school, seeking partnerships with other businesses, or expressing your interest in a potential collaboration. Unlike a cover letter, which is tailored to a specific job description, a letter of intent allows you to showcase your long-term vision and how it aligns with the organization’s mission and values.

For instance, if you’re applying for a master’s program in computer science, your letter of intent might outline your academic background , research interests, and career objectives. You could also discuss why you’re passionate about the field and how you plan to contribute to advancements in technology.

Salary Guides and Negotiation Tips

Sample interview preparation questions and answers.

1. Tell me about yourself .

Answer: I’m a dedicated professional with a background in [relevant field]. I’m passionate about [specific aspect of the industry] and have experience in [relevant skills or experiences].

2. What interests you about this position?

Answer: I’m drawn to this position because it offers the opportunity to [mention specific responsibilities or projects] and aligns with my career goals of [mention career aspirations].

3. How do you handle challenges in the workplace?

Answer: I approach challenges with a positive mindset, seeking solutions through collaboration, creativity, and adaptability. An example of this is when [provide an example of a challenge you’ve overcome in the past].

4. What are your strengths and weaknesses?

Answer: My strengths include [mention strengths relevant to the job], while I continuously work on improving my [mention weaknesses] through [mention strategies for improvement ].

5. Where do you see yourself in five years?

Answer: In five years, I envision myself [mention career goals or aspirations], leveraging my experiences and skills to [mention contributions or achievements].

Professional Development Resources Tips

By leveraging these professional development resources, you can enhance your skills, expand your knowledge, and stay competitive in today’s job market.

In conclusion, while both cover letters and letters of intent play vital roles in the job application process, it’s essential to understand their differences and how to leverage them effectively. Whether you’re applying for a specific job or expressing your interest in a broader opportunity, crafting personalized and compelling documents can significantly increase your chances of success.

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What Actually Is a Letter of Intent (and How Is it Different From a Cover Letter)?

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You scan a job posting and everything looks normal (responsibilities and requirements, check, lots of jargon related to your field, check), until you come across the following: Please submit a resume and letter of intent.

Huh. That’s a phrase you’ve never seen before: “letter of intent.” Do they mean like a cover letter , but in a different, slightly confusing way?

Well, yes and no. There are plenty of similarities between the two, and also several differences. Here’s what you need to know about letters of intent.

What Is a Letter of Intent?

To play off the name, a letter of intent is about stating your intentions to work for a particular company. There may be a specific role you (or the employer) has in mind, but more often you’re interested in tossing your name into the hat for any opportunities an organization may offer.

“In my experience, I’ve seen an intent letter used usually when there’s not a specific job that a candidate is interested in applying for,” says Kaila Kea , a career coach on The Muse. So you’d probably write one if you’re submitting a general application to an organization you’re a major fan of that isn’t necessarily hiring for your dream job just yet.

How Does a Letter of Intent Differ From a Cover Letter?

It can be easy to confuse a cover letter with a letter of intent. In her experience working with job seekers, Kea differentiates them this way: “Intent letters tend to be a bit more company focused—you’re talking a little more about the employer than the specific job.” They’re also more general in terms of how you talk about your skill set.

“On the flip side of that, the cover letter can be more job-focused, a little more position-oriented, because there’s a specific job that’s posted that you want to speak to,” she adds.

As a result, each type of letter requires a different approach.

For example, says Kea, with a cover letter you might say, “I’m highly interested in a product manager role at [Company] for the following reasons,” while with a letter of intent you’re more likely to say something along the lines of, “I’m highly interested in a managerial role at [Company] for the following reasons.”

Going broader “gives you more wiggle room into what the employer may align you with in terms of roles,” says Kea. Rather than pigeonhole yourself into one path, you allow the hiring manager to slot you into the best-fit scenario.

Letters of intent can also present themselves in situations outside the application process—for example, if you want to follow up after a job fair or a networking event. “Again, there may not be a specific role listed that you’re interested in or that you can apply for at that time,” Kea says, but emailing a letter of intent is a great way to express interest in working for their organization one day.

Why Do Companies Ask for Letters of Intent?

Companies ask for letters of intent mainly when they’re as torn about what they’re looking for as you might be.

“In some cases, employers might have several jobs posted at once for one department or for one specific project,” says Kea. They may ask for a letter of intent because they’re not entirely sure what kind of person they need to fill the gaps in those departments. Maybe they’ll end up hiring two senior-level managers, or they may be just as satisfied with one mid-level exec and one entry-level employee—depending on which people wow them in the application process.

Letters of intent are also frequently used to hire for contractors or freelancers who aren’t your standard W2 employees, because if, for example, a contract falls through, companies can easily line up the next qualified candidate for the job.

Put simply, a hiring manager most likely wants to widen their candidate pool, so they’re looking for anyone and everyone who shows an eagerness and passion for the company.

The type of letter can also vary across sectors. “In my experience, the more established organizations [and] private companies typically go with a cover letter,” says Kea, while letters of intent might present themselves at startups or nonprofits that are more mission-focused and growing at a greater rate.

“So from a candidate perspective, if you’re asked to submit a letter of intent, that may mean that the company is newer, that they’re trying to source talent in a different way, whereas the cover letter [is] more of a classic go-to,” she explains.

How Do You Go About Writing a Letter of Intent?

First off, you want to express plenty of interest in the company itself. “A lot of people get really wrapped up [in saying] ‘I’m the perfect person for this job, I want this job, I’m great for this job, hire me for this job,’” says Kea. “And there’s nothing wrong with that…but one of the things that makes an intent letter so successful is really showing that you identify with the company’s mission, their values, their goals.”

Letters of intent can also be more current. For example, rather than talk broadly about the company, you may mention something about them in the news or a recent update to their product. You want to include “anything that would grab the attention of the employer and also show that you’re keeping up with what’s happening with that organization or in your industry,” she says. (Of course, you could also reference something current in a cover letter, too, if that’s how you want to grab the reader’s attention to start off.)

And, as with a great opening line to a cover letter , “it helps to capture their interest and encourage them to keep reading; that’s of course the goal,” she adds.

If you’re struggling to come up with something specific about the company to discuss, then talk about something that’s engaging about yourself, says Kea. What makes you stand out? What unique skills, experiences, or passions do you bring to the table? And how do these align with what the company needs, given what you know about them?

Overall, you want to make it general enough that you’re showing interest in the company as a whole, “but also specific enough so that the employer walks away with at least one key takeaway from you and your skill set and what you can bring to this organization,” she says.

Let’s go back to the product manager versus managerial role explanation above. If you were to write a cover letter , says Kea, you’d probably try to speak to a particular product manager position. So you would focus your letter on why you’d be good at that job—the experiences you have working on a product’s lifecycle, managing vendor relationships, and collaborating across teams, to name a few examples. You’d also want to make sure you’re addressing specific points in the job description.

But if you were writing a letter of intent, you’d instead want to focus on how you’d be great for a managerial role—whether it’s as a product manager or something else entirely. In this case, rather than mention your product manager experience, you might talk about how you led a team, managed expectations, or coordinated logistics for meetings. You’re referencing specific skills, sure—and your resume is highlighting both sets of skills—but you’re tailoring your letter to what the hiring manager may be looking for.

A Sample Letter of Intent

Let’s say you’re an experienced designer and product manager looking to join a startup in some capacity. You do some digging to figure out who to address your letter to (please, please don’t use “ To Whom It May Concern ”), and discover that the head of the product department is named Caroline Coffman.

You might send her the following:

Dear Caroline Coffman,

When I was 10, my brother fainted while waiting to ride a rollercoaster at Six Flags. It was an incredibly hot day, and we’d been in line for an hour.

I don’t remember anything else about that day—what other rides we took, what we ate, even who exactly we were with—but I distinctly remember the feeling of wanting to know why . Why did this happen? Why did we have to wait in such long lines? Why hasn’t anyone come up with a solution to the problem of overcrowded amusement parks?

It’s for this reason that I’m thrilled to apply to work on the product and design team at Rydes. Not only does your mission of revolutionizing and adding efficiency to theme parks spark my curiosity and eagerness to fix things, it also reminds me of the bigger picture: that you should leave an amusement park, or any family outing for that matter, with fonder memories than your sibling passing out. Your latest product update featured in Forbes around waiting times on lines especially spoke to me and further encouraged me to write this letter.

A little bit about me: I majored in design and applied arts because I wanted to be self-sufficient in how I solved problems, and because I enjoyed working with my hands as well as my mind. I took on a role as associate UX designer at a small startup because I was fascinated with making websites that were seamless and free of obstacles, then shifted to a product manager position at a larger company because I realized how much I liked collaborating across departments and working with various experts to brainstorm ideas and solutions. To me, the most rewarding part of my day is helping my team members be productive, feel motivated, and achieve their goals. With this experience and skill set, I’m ready to leap back into the startup world and work for a company whose ambitions align with my own.

I want to thank you for considering me to join this fantastic team of innovators and creatives, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely, Jack Williams

Now that you know the difference between a cover letter and a letter of intent, go tell your friends this new fun fact! And maybe consider this new form of applying the next time you set your eyes on your dream company.