How to Write a Letter of Interest for a Job + Template

Not every great job is advertised, and that’s where a letter of interest comes in. Instead of waiting for openings, take a proactive approach that helps you stand out, introduce yourself, and show how you’d be a valuable addition, even without a current vacancy.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through what a letter of interest is, when to use one, and how to write your own using our expert tips and letter of interest template. Let’s begin!

Use the LiveCareer cover letter builder and your cover letter will write itself. Choose a professional template, answer a few easy questions and the creator will generate a professional cover letter for you with just one click.

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If you’re looking for advice on how to write a cover letter or a different type of letter, take a look at these:

• What Is a Cover Letter? Meaning, Purpose & When to Use One
• How to Write a Motivation Letter That Stands Out
• Letter of Application Guide: Format, Content & Examples
• How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter: Tips & Templates
• What to Include in a Cover Letter: Key Elements for Success

What is a letter of interest?

A letter of interest is a proactive communication sent to an employer to state your willingness to work for them, even if no positions are currently advertised. Think of it as an informal pitch: “Here’s who I am, what I bring to the table, and why I’d love to be part of your organisation.”

Unlike a cover letter (which responds to a specific job posting), an expression of interest is broader. It’s an opportunity to get on a company’s radar, build a connection, and open the door to future opportunities. It can also serve as a way to expand your professional network and show your initiative, qualities most employers appreciate.

Why should you write a letter of interest for a job?

In today’s ultra-competitive job market, sending a letter of interest for a job isn’t just proactive—it’s strategic. According to Tribepad’s latest recruitment insights, job applications in the UK rose by 119% year-on-year in November, with an average of 48.7 applicants competing for every vacancy.

With fewer roles being advertised and more candidates chasing them, making the first move through a letter of interest helps you bypass saturated job boards and tap into the ‘hidden job market’, where many of the most desirable positions are filled through referrals and trusted networks long before they're posted publicly.

What to include in an expression of interest letter

While a short and simple letter of interest is more flexible than a traditional cover letter, it still needs to be clear, professional, and relevant. Here’s a breakdown of the five essential components your letter should include, along with tips to make each section count:

1. Start with a strong introduction

Your opening paragraph is your first impression. Start by briefly introducing yourself, your current role or status, and the reason you're writing. Because you're reaching out without a formal job posting, clarity is key.

Letter of interest sample paragraph

Make sure your tone is warm, enthusiastic, and professional. Set the context and help the reader understand why you’re reaching out.

2. Explain why you’re interested

Once you’ve introduced yourself, it’s time to explain your motivation. What draws you to the company? Why do you want to work there specifically?

You could refer to:

• The company’s values or mission.
• A recent project or initiative they launched.
• Their culture, reputation, or innovation in the industry.
• A recommendation or referral (if applicable).

Expression of interest letter sample motivation paragraph

This section shows the employer that you’ve done your homework and that your interest is genuine, not just a generic message sent to dozens of companies.

3. Highlight your relevant skills and achievements

Next, offer a summary of your background, tailored to the company’s potential needs. Since you’re not responding to a specific job posting, focus on transferable skills, key achievements, and areas where you could add value.

Keep it concise; two or three short paragraphs or a few well-written sentences can do the job. Focus on quality over quantity.

Consider including:

• Key projects or accomplishments
• Certifications or education
• Tools, technologies, or methods you’ve mastered
• Soft skills (e.g. communication skills, collaboration) that support your technical expertise

Sample expression of interest letter: achievements & skills

This section builds your credibility and shows that you’re more than just interested – you’re qualified.

You can adjust every cover letter created in the builder to meet the job requirements. Choose the name of your profession and the company to which you’re applying, and the LiveCareer cover letter builder will automatically adapt the content for you. Create a cover letter faster than you ever thought possible and apply for the job in record time.

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4. Explain why you’re a good fit and what you’re looking for

Now that the reader knows what you bring to the table, it’s time to show how you and the company align. You want to paint a picture of mutual benefit: what you hope to gain and how they might benefit from hiring you.

This is also the right place to share your career goals, especially if they connect with the company’s direction. Be honest and optimistic.

Letter of interest example: goals & adding value

Avoid being too narrow or prescriptive – you don’t want to limit yourself to one role or department unless you’re sure there’s a fit.

5. Close on a positive, professional note

Wrap up your letter by reiterating your interest and expressing your openness to discuss further. Be polite, proactive, and transparent about how they can reach you.

Expression of interest letter sample closing paragraph

Avoid language that sounds overly eager or desperate. Maintain a tone that is confident, friendly, and professional.

Expression of interest template

Here’s a full sample based on the structure above. Feel free to adapt it to fit your background and goals:

Final thoughts: why sending an expression of interest letter is worth it

An expression of interest letter for a job isn’t just a shot in the dark – it’s a strategic move that demonstrates initiative, curiosity, and confidence. In competitive industries, it’s often the proactive candidates who get noticed first.

Here’s a quick recap of what makes a great EOI letter:

• A clear introduction that provides context.
• A compelling reason for writing that shows genuine interest.
• A concise summary of your background and strengths.
• A thoughtful explanation of why you’re a good match.
• A warm, confident closing statement.
  
  

And don’t forget: always attach a professional CV and customise your letter for each company. Even if there’s no immediate opportunity, your name may go on a shortlist for future roles – and that’s exactly the kind of head start most job seekers dream of.

You don’t have to create any content yourself. The LiveCareer cover letter generator will automatically suggest the best content for your cover letter with ready-made examples and expert tips.

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Need additional resources about cover letters? See these guides:

• Ideal Cover Letter Length: How Long Should It Be in 2025?
• How to Address a Cover Letter (Even If You Don’t Know the Name)
• How to End a Cover Letter Professionally (With Examples)
• Cover Letter Structure Guide: How to Organise Yours Properly
• Cover Letter Examples for Every Role and Career Level

Thank you for reading my article on writing a letter of interest for a job. I wish you all the best in your career advancement journey!

How we review the content at LiveCareer

Our editorial team has reviewed this article for compliance with LiveCareer’s editorial guidelines. It’s to ensure that our expert advice and recommendations are consistent across all our career guides and align with current CV and cover letter writing standards and trends. We’re trusted by over 10 million job seekers, supporting them on their way to finding their dream job. Each article is preceded by research and scrutiny to ensure our content responds to current market trends and demand.

Sources

• Onrec, (2025) The Hidden Job Market – Why Some Jobs Are Never Advertised
• Tribepad, (2025) Applications per Job Up - UK Job