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Research Interest Statement Samples That Worked

A good research interest statement sample can be hard to find. Still, it can also be a beneficial reference for writing one and preparing for a grad school application or post-graduate position . In many cases, admissions committees use it in lieu of a grad school interview, so it is important to write a strong statement. In this blog post we’ve included research interest statement samples and several tips that will help you write a strong statement to help improve your chances of getting into grad school . 

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Article Contents 12 min read

Research interest statement samples, research statement of interest #1.

As the child of an immigrant, I have always been fascinated by the relationship between identity, geographic territory, and economic development. With the rise of globalization, there is a broader effort in the social sciences to study the link between cultural identity, human mobility, and economic development in the contemporary world. I hope that my research will contribute to this as well. I am applying to the X University Global Anthropology program, as it is the best place for me to explore my research interests and channel them towards my long-term goals. I believe that my undergraduate education and the research experience it gave me have prepared me to undertake advanced research projects, thus making me an excellent candidate for this program.

I spent the first two years of undergraduate studies taking psychology courses. I went to university knowing that I wanted to learn about human behavior and culture. I was thirsty for information, but I did not know what kind of information just yet. It wasn’t until I took an elective anthropology class in my second year and started discussing identity in anthropology that something clicked. Unlike many other social sciences, anthropology explores the different ways that cultures affect human behavior and that connected right away with my experience as an immigrant. I have been passionate about the subject ever since, and I intend on spending my career exploring this topic further.

In the long run, I am interested in understanding how geography affects the construction of one’s cultural identity, especially when it comes to immigrants. Literature already exists on the topic, but most of it examines the upper levels of this process of social reproduction, concentrating on the roles of governments and associations in promoting ties between migrants and their homelands. Prof. Jane Doe Smith is one of the anthropologists researching the transnational migration experience, and I hope to have the opportunity to work with her at X University.

I was fortunate to be part of a summer research experience as an undergraduate, which took place in several west African countries, including Mali, Senegal, and Nigeria. Dr. Sam Smith was leading the research, and my time on his team allowed me to gain hands-on experience in research while living abroad. One of the things that I did almost daily was interview the subjects in a controlled environment, and sometimes I got to be a part of traditional ceremonies. I learnt how to observe without being intrusive and how to interact with clinical subjects. The experience only strengthened my curiosity and conviction that today more than ever, we need to understand what identity is and the different factors that can affect it.

I enrolled in several challenging research-oriented courses such as Applied Statistical Inference for the Behavioral Sciences, Principles of Measurement, and more throughout my degree. I was also able to work as a research lab assistant for one of my mentors, Mr. Jonathan Smith. I worked with him while he studied the relationship between identity, culture and “self.” My main duties were to assist in the creating of surveys and other assessment materials, administer written and verbal tests to participants, create literature reviews for potential resources, create summaries of findings for analysis and other office duties such as reserving testing rooms. This particular experience allowed me to get some hands-on experience with data collection, data analysis, report preparation and the creation of data summaries.

I know that there is a lot more that I can learn from the X University. I have seen the exemplary work in anthropology and other social studies done by the staff and alumni of this school. It has inspired and convinced me beyond the shadow of a doubt that pursuing my graduate studies in your program meets my personal, academic, and professional goals objectives.

My advanced research skills, passion for anthropology and clinical research, as well as my academic proficiency make me the ideal candidate for X University's Clinical Global Anthropology Master’s program. I believe that X University’s rigorous curriculum and facilities make it the perfect place for me, my long-term career goals and my research commitments. 

I am applying to the brain and development master's program of X university because it is one of the few universities that not only has a program that combines the two disciplines that I majored in my undergraduate studies: Psychology and Linguistics; but also because it is a program that I know would allow me to grow as a researcher, contribute to my chosen fields and achieve my long-term career goals. My research is motivated by two of my favorite things: language and music. To be more specific, hip-hop music. In 20xx, Rollingstone magazine published an article stating that hip hop was now more popular than rock and roll. The rise in popularity of this initially very niche genre has sparked a conversation in specific academic fields such as psychology, sociology, linguistics, and English about the use of language within it but also the effects that it can have on those who listen to it. I hope to one day contribute to that conversation by studying the relationship between hip-hop music and vocabulary development, and I believe that pursuing this particular research interest at X university is the best way for me to do that.

There are many potential places this research may lead me and many potential topics I may explore. Furthermore, there are many things that it would allow us to learn about the effect that music has on our brains and society at large.

I was fortunate enough to work under Dr. Jane D. Smith at the University of X for two years while conducting her recently published study on vocabulary instruction for children with a developmental language disorder. During my time in her lab, I interviewed participants and put together evaluation materials for them. I was also responsible for data entry, analysis, and summarizing. This experience gave me the skills and the knowledge that allowed me to exceed expectations for my final research project in undergraduate school.

One of my undergraduate degree requirements was to complete a small independent study under the supervision of a professor. I chose to study music's effect on children's vocabulary development. Several studies look for ways to decrease the million-word gap, and I wanted to see if this thing that I am so passionate about, music, had any effect at all. I compiled multiple literature reviews and analyzed their results, and I found that there is indeed a correlation between the number of words that a child spoke and the amount of music that they were exposed to. 

This research is currently being explored on a larger scale by Prof. John Doe at X university and learning from him is one of the many reasons I have applied to this program. I took several research methodology courses throughout my degree, and I would love to enroll in the Applied Statistics for Psychology course he is currently teaching to build upon the foundational knowledge I already have. There are several other faculty members in the brain and language department with whom learning from would be a dream come true. In addition to that, working with them is a real possibility because the research they are currently doing and the research I hope to pursue are greatly matched.

I genuinely believe that X university has the curriculum and facilities that I need to meet my long-term goals and research commitments. I also believe that my academic achievements, eagerness to learn, and passion make me the perfect candidate for your program. 

A research interest statement is essential for most graduate school, post-graduate, and academic job applications . Sometimes, it may be referred to it as a " statement of intent " or "description of research interests." While they are similar, a research interest statement may require some additional information.

Generally, your statement will pride a brief overview of your research background, including your past research experience, the current state of your research, and the future research you'd like to complete.

Research interest statements are usually written in the form of a short essay. However, different graduate programs can have specific requirements , so make sure to check the program you are applying to and read their particular instructions.

The exact requirements of the research interest statement can vary depending on where you are applying and for what position. Most faculty positions will need you to produce a separate file for your statement, and most of the time, for an academic program, you can simply include your statement within your CV for graduate school .

What is the Point of a Research Interest Statement?

Your research statement plays a big role in the committee's decision of whether to accept you. Undergraduate programs are centered around classes and grades, but graduate and post-graduate programs are all about your research and what your research contributes to your program of choice.

Ultimately, they are trying to figure out if you, as a person, and your research, would be a good fit for their program. A strong statement will showcase your passion for research, the connection between your future interests and the program, and the extent of your writing skills.

Writing a strong statement can be helpful to you, as well. Having to explain your research and talk about your goals coherently will give you a chance to define your future research and career plans, as well as academic interests. Additionally, once you are accepted you may reuse parts of your research interest statement to apply for graduate school scholarships or grants . 

Looking for tips on getting into grad school? This infographic is for you:

What To Include in Your Research Interest Statement?

Unless otherwise stated by the program or faculty that you are applying to, your statement should be one to two pages long or between 500 and 1,000 words.

There is rarely a specific question or prompt but they might ask for a particular detail to be included in your interest statement. For example, a university’s requirements may look something like this:

“In your statement of interest, you should detail your study and/or research interests and reasons for seeking admission. You must identify a faculty member from the Anthropology Department with whom you are interested in being your advisor. The length of a statement of intent should be 2 pages in length (single-spaced, Times New Roman font size 12 point)”

Your research statement should be in an academic essay format. It needs to be concise, well-organized, and easy to read. For graduate school, PhD or post-doc positions , your research interest statement will usually be a part of your grad school resume . We recommend that you stick to the following things when it comes to the format:

Your statement should include a brief history of your past and/or current research such as your undergraduate research experience .

The statement should also address your proposed research in the program you are applying to. What questions do you want to solve and why are you applying to this specific institution to solve these problems?

Finally, you want to talk about the future of your research and how will your proposed research lead to bigger questions.

How to Write a Strong Research Interest Statement

Outline the content of your research interest statement.

• Introduction: This is a functional academic document, unlike college essays or personal statements, so you want to go straight to the point and focus on the key information that needs to be conveyed. You want to use this paragraph to tell the committee why you are writing this statement. In other words, you should clearly state what kind of research you are interested in pursuing at the institution in question and explain why you are drawn to the subject. 
• Body: This is your “why and how” paragraphs. In 2 or 3 paragraphs, you should expand on your interest, background, accomplishments, and plans in the field of research. Depending on your level of experience, you may use this time to talk about your previous or current research. If you do not have much experience, then you may use this paragraph to talk about any skills or academic achievements that could be relevant to your future research. 
• Conclusion: To conclude, you should restate your interest and tie it back to the research you intend to continue at the university. Be specific about the direction you’d like to take the research in, who you’d like to work with, and what the institution has that would help you. We also suggest including a concise statement that reiterates your unique suitability for the program, and what you can contribute to it and your chosen field.

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Tips for Writing Your Statement

• Give Yourself Ample Time: Much like with other components of your application, like your CV or a graduate school interview question , preparation is the key to success. You should give yourself enough time to thoroughly research the program or faculty you are applying to, gather all the information or documents that can aid you in writing, and then write and rewrite as many times as you need to. Give yourself at least 6 weeks to draft, redraft, and finalize your statement. You may also want to consider investing in a graduate school admissions consultant as they have more experience writing these types of essays and may see things that you can’t.
• Research the Program/Faculty: The purpose of your research interest statement is to tell the committee all about your research plans, how it will contribute to the field and convince them that not only is their institution is the best place for it, but that you will be an asset to them as a candidate. You should have a good idea of the research interests of the professors in the institutions you are applying to, any specialized equipment or laboratories that could aid in your research, and more broadly how your research goals fit in with their goals. 

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Being Too Personal: Often, students will confuse the grad school statement of purpose and the research interest statement or statement of intent. It is essential to understand the difference between these two documents because some programs will ask for both of these documents. There is quite a bit of overlap between the two essays, so they are very easy to mix up. Both documents ask applicants to focus on their research interests, relevant past academic and professional experiences, and their long-term goals in the field. However, a statement of purpose is more like a personal statement that describes your overall journey and suitability for a program. In contrast, a research interest statement is a more formal academic document about the research you intend to pursue in a program. It will include many details such as the faculty members you want to work with, the program facilities and resources you wish to use, etc.
• Not Following Guidelines: As mentioned earlier, these statements can vary depending on the discipline and the faculty. It is crucial that you review all the institution's guidelines and follow them. Some schools will have a specific word count, others may simply give you a maximum and minimum word count. Others may even have a specific prompt or question that you will need to answer with your essay. You want to make sure that you are following the instructions exactly as they are provided by the program.
• Using Too Much Academic Jargon: Your statement will be read by people who are most likely knowledgeable, but they might not be from your specific field or specialty. We understand that it may not be possible to be clear about your research without using a few niche words, but try to keep them at a minimum and avoid using acronyms that are not well known outside of your specialty.
• Having One Generic Statement: The requirements of your research statement are different from one school to another, and you should tailor your letter to the program you are writing to. We know that the research and experience you are talking about are still the same, but the qualities and aspects of that experience you play up should be tailored to the school you are applying to. You should be mentioning specific professors, specialized labs, or other unique aspects of the program you are applying to. 

It is essentially an essay that provides a brief overview of your research experience and goals. It is also sometimes referred to as a "statement of intent" or "description of research interests."

This statement tells the admissions committee more about you as an applicant. This includes your past research experience, the current state of your research, and the future research you'd like to complete.

No. Some graduate school programs might ask for a statement of purpose or a writing sample instead. You should always check the requirements of the specific program that you’re applying to.

Generally, your statement should be 400 to 1000 words or about two pages long. That said, most programs will give you guidelines so make sure you check those and follow them.

You certainly can but we do not recommend it. You should always tailor your statement to the program you are applying to. 

We recommend that you doublecheck the information provided by your chosen program as they often have specific instructions for the format of the letter. If none exist, stick to easily legible fonts, a decent font size, spacing, margins, etc.  

We recommend giving yourself at least 6 weeks to write your statement. This will give you ample time to brainstorm, write a strong letter, read it again and edit it as many times as necessary. It also gives you enough time to get expert eyes on your letter and work with them to improve it if you wish.

No. Research interest statements are often required for post-graduate school applications and for other positions in academic faculties.

Absolutely! You can always reach out to admissions professionals, such as graduate school admissions consultants or grad school essays tutors .

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BeMo Academic Consulting

You are very welcome, Rasool!

Sadia Sultana

hello, thanks for providing guide line for Research Interest statement, the important aspect of scholarship application. Kindly guide me, What should be the title of the Research Statement. Thanks

Hi Sadia! Check the requirements of your school first. They might provide some info on whether a title is even needed. 

Sadia Tasnim Epa

I'm very pleased that you have mentioned every detail of research interest which helped me to clear all of my doubts.... Thank you very much.

Hi Sadia! Glad you found this helpful!

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How to Write a Killer Research Interest Statement

A strong research interest statement can be the difference between being considered for a position and your application ending up in the bin. Check out these tips on how to make your statement stand out from the crowd.

Published December 6, 2023

Serena obtained her PhD in Neuroscience/Human Medicine from the MUI in 2013, for which she was awarded the Wilhelm-Auerswald-Prize from Bayer . She is a Freelance Scientific Writer and Medical Affairs Manager for Denk Pharma GmbH & Co. KG .

A research interest statement, essential for academic job applications, should concisely outline past, current, and future research within 1–3 pages. It must include a compelling introduction, detailed research plans, alignment with the targeted lab or department, and a strong conclusion. Personalization for each application, clear and concise writing, and incorporating feedback are key. For faculty roles, emphasize long-term goals and potential research contributions.

Listen to one of our scientific editorial team members read this article. Click  here  to access more audio articles or subscribe.

The day will come when your job contract ends or you feel like applying for a new and exciting position. You may feel a bit lost preparing all the documents you need for that new job post but don’t worry, help is out there!

When applying for a PhD, post-doc , or faculty position, you will need to provide your curriculum vitae (CV), including the contact information of two or more references, sometimes specific certificates (e.g., language certificate), and a research interest statement. A statement of research interests is a 1–3 page document (if the required length is not clearly stated) that describes your research until now, your interests, and your future plans.

Why Do You Need a Research Interest Statement?

This document is helpful for the lab/department that wants to hire you, as well as for yourself. A potential employer will learn about:

• your interests and experience;
• your passion for research;
• the match between your interests and the employer’s research;
• your ability to think logically;
• your independence from your supervisor;
• the extent of your writing skills (important for paper and grant writing) .

You will have the chance to:

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• think about and define your future plans and research interests;
• gain confidence, and visualize your future career path.

Depending on where you are applying and for what position, there will be some differences in the requirements for the research interest statement. Sometimes you’ll need to produce a separate file, which is often required for faculty positions, and other times you can simply include your statement within your CV. Let’s start by defining what to do when applying for a PhD or post-doc position.

Research Interest Statement for PhD or Post-doc Positions

When the research interest statement is part of your CV, aim for one page or around 400 words. Pay attention: do not rewrite your CV—instead, clearly define your research interests. Highlight your scientific skills, your passion, and your ideas!

How to Write a Statement of Research Interests

How should you structure it? Think about how you would tell a story or write your thesis. You need an introduction, a main paragraph, future research ideas, and a conclusion.

Introduction

This summarizes the contents and guides the reader through your application.

Main Paragraph

This is the core of your statement. It contains your recent and current research, as well as your planned future research. If you have worked on several projects, make the connection between them. Write about how you became interested in what you have done and why it still interests you.

Capture your reader’s attention by telling a story, and your statement will be easy to remember. In this section, you can briefly describe any important recognition, such as papers, presentations, awards, and grants.

An important tip: your statement will be more powerful if you place your work in a broader context. Let your reader visualize the ‘big picture’.

Future Prospective Research

This describes your short-term goals (2–5 years). This section will differ depending on whether you’re applying for a PhD or post-doc position. For the former, write about additional technical skills you are planning to learn or how you want to broaden your knowledge in a certain field.

For the latter, try to be a bit more detailed and include how you plan to develop as an independent scientist. State how your research goals will align with the employer’s research, which collaborations you could bring to the department, and which departments on campus you could benefit from working with.

Use one sentence that essentially says why you deserve the job.

Research Interest Statement for Faculty Positions

Applying for faculty positions requires a bit more detail, and sometimes the research interest statement has a precise length (2–5 pages). The structure above is still valid; however, you will need to add long-term goals (5+ years).

You can think of it as comparable to writing a grant application . Include some preliminary data, if you can, and be detailed and precise. It’s crucial, in this case, to be able to visualize the ‘big picture’ without being too vague!

How will your research bring innovation into the field? Make sure you mention any potential funding your research could bring to the department and which laboratory equipment and space the department should provide you with.

You can mention any common campus facilities you plan to use. Include the potential applications of your research; collaborations with industrial partners can strengthen your application.

Important Reminders

Customize your statement.

A very common mistake is to use a basic template for each application. Your application will be better if you customize your statement.

Highlight Why You Are a Good Match for the Lab

Describe the match between your experience and interests and the lab/department you are applying for.

Sometimes it can seem really difficult to find a suitable match, but don’t despair; you need just one or two points of contact between your research/interests and the employer’s research.

Focus on Format

Write clearly, and be concise. Use single or 1.5 line spacing, short bullet lists, and clear subject headings. The clearer your statement, the more powerful your application!

Give it Time

One last tip: give yourself time to write. Leave the statement in your drawer for a few days and come back to it. This will help you obtain a different perspective on what you wrote. If you can, send your statement to friends and colleagues to get suggestions. Someone who isn’t from your field can also bring helpful insights.

Crafting Your Research Interest Statement Summarized

Creating an effective research interest statement for academic positions demands a well-structured approach, showcasing your research journey from past accomplishments to future goals.

This crucial document must be tailored for each application to demonstrate a clear alignment with the intended department or lab. Emphasizing clarity, conciseness, and compelling storytelling, with a strong opening and conclusion is vital.

For faculty roles, detailing long-term ambitions and potential contributions is key. A meticulously crafted research interest statement serves as a powerful tool in your academic career progression.

I hope this article will help you with your applications. Remember: stay calm and keep writing!

Additional Resources

Writing A Research Statement . Carnegie Mellon University Global Communication Center.

Originally published June 21, 2017. Reviewed and updated January 2021. Reviewed and updated November 2023.

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Sample Statement of Research Interests

by Talha Omer, M.Eng., Cornell Grad

In personal statement prompts.

The following statement of research interests is written by an applicant who got accepted to several top doctoral programs in the US. Variations of this statement of research interests got accepted at Scripps College in Claremont California. Read it to understand what a top statement of research interests should look like.

Example Statement of Research Interests

Research captivated me from my first experience in the domain during my undergraduate thesis project. My newfound fascination with this field blossomed under the aegis of my Biochemistry professor, himself a research enthusiast and a most inspirational teacher, who combined knowledge with research-based learning in a truly intriguing way that traditional teaching strategies could not equal. Therefore, despite growing up in a culture where doctors and engineers are the only scientific community members accorded social importance or respect, I embraced research as my true vocation.

Why do I want to be a researcher? I do not need a philosophical approach to deal with this question. I want to do it only due to two built-in attributes of my personality: Consistency and Commitment. Consistency and hard work outstrip ingenuity, and excellence is acquired through rigorous exercise and unwavering passion rather than God-gifted aptitude. Therefore, research demands consistency more than anything. It is here that we learn why things sometimes do not operate as we want. We reassemble our energies and our patience, return to our work, and slowly proceed toward perfection.

Becoming a dedicated researcher was challenging, especially in Brazil, where only a few institutes are committed to producing meaningful research work. Nonetheless, I have persevered, working from my undergraduate years onward with complete devotion and enthusiasm, making my projects my priority, always striving for perfection, and never allowing limited resources or the scope of the projects assigned to discourage me. Indeed, the hurdles I have faced only deepened my passion for research.

Graduate school is the next logical step in a career dedicated to scientific research. I already hold a Master/BS (Hons.) degree in Zoology from Brazil, where I stood 1st, received the highest CGPAs and gold medal for my excellent work. Indeed, I graduated top of my classes. After my Ph.D., I see myself working either simultaneously in a research institute and a university as a visiting faculty or as a research scientist cum teacher of Virology and Biochemistry so that I may pass on to future generations of scientists the passion for research with which my teachers inspired me. As a Lecturer in (Zoology, Biology, and Physics) I already have two years of teaching experience (I was selected after a rigorous written test and panel interview under the Government Higher Education Department). During this time, my faith in the benefits of mixing teaching and research work has strengthened.

However, I prefer to pursue my doctoral studies in a non-traditional academic environment, where greater emphasis is placed on active research than on acquiring theoretical information. For me, research in Biosciences is about responsibility, individuality, innovation, and the discovery of new branches of knowledge. My experience of non-traditional research environments, acquired during the research projects I have already undertaken, leads me to believe that, after several years of education at three different traditional universities, it will be a privilege to work in this uniquely research-oriented set-up.

If Scripps is my first choice, there is a solid reason behind it. Academically, I was interested in various disciplines, sometimes very distinct from one another, as I am for research. My proposed research projects range over various fields: Microbiology, Molecular biology, Enzyme Biochemistry, Genetics, and Immunology. The themes which I aim to pursue are as diverse as the hereditary transmission of diabetes and arthritis and the resultant Pleiotropy in human beings:

• How bacterial enzymes remain stable in hydrothermal springs.
• How does a lack of DNA repair machinery benefit the viruses and not humans?
• How tandem repeat-ends of chromosomes can help delay aging.
• How immunity can be enhanced.
• How most prevailing but least focused schizophrenia and stressors can be worked out.

Flexibility which I demand in research can only be supported here at Scripps; otherwise, I must compromise with the conventional set-up of a university. If I say this is the most propelling factor to choose Scripps, it is not wrong. Thus, I am a perfect fit for Scripps’ Graduate Program, with its flexibility and emphasis on genuine work.

Primarily after observing the strategies viruses employ during the “encephalitic” and “paralytic” phases of rabies, I began to look at viruses from a different perspective: they have enormous potential, and I believe that if something has potential, there is always a way to turn it to account. We must search for a meaningful channel into which it can be diverted. Now, we are standing at a very primitive stage, and we must proceed with immense care and delicacy. My idea is to focus our research on Oncolytic viruses that would be helpful for people living with cancer.

Moreover, the projects currently in progress, specifically in the labs of Dr. Francis Chisari, Dr. Karsten Sauer, and Dr. Roy Smith, are exciting. Additionally, Loss of control that leads to cancer and aging, the failure of immune cells to cope with cancerous cells, the optimization of vaccines, the characterization of proteins involved in the pathogenesis of viral diseases, and the molecular genetics of metabolic and inherited diseases are undoubtedly avenues of research to which I do most eagerly hope to contribute. To make myself the best fit for the program, I have tried my best to cover up deficiencies in statistics and mathematics, and I am still working on it. The only thing that motivated me to apply for the program was my true research spirit.

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Research statement, what is a research statement.

The research statement (or statement of research interests) is a common component of academic job applications. It is a summary of your research accomplishments, current work, and future direction and potential of your work.

The statement can discuss specific issues such as:

• funding history and potential
• requirements for laboratory equipment and space and other resources
• potential research and industrial collaborations
• how your research contributes to your field
• future direction of your research

The research statement should be technical, but should be intelligible to all members of the department, including those outside your subdiscipline. So keep the “big picture” in mind. The strongest research statements present a readable, compelling, and realistic research agenda that fits well with the needs, facilities, and goals of the department.

Research statements can be weakened by:

• overly ambitious proposals
• lack of clear direction
• lack of big-picture focus
• inadequate attention to the needs and facilities of the department or position

Why a Research Statement?

• It conveys to search committees the pieces of your professional identity and charts the course of your scholarly journey.
• It communicates a sense that your research will follow logically from what you have done and that it will be different, important, and innovative.
• It gives a context for your research interests—Why does your research matter? The so what?
• It combines your achievements and current work with the proposal for upcoming research.
• areas of specialty and expertise
• potential to get funding
• academic strengths and abilities
• compatibility with the department or school
• ability to think and communicate like a serious scholar and/or scientist

Formatting of Research Statements

The goal of the research statement is to introduce yourself to a search committee, which will probably contain scientists both in and outside your field, and get them excited about your research. To encourage people to read it:

• make it one or two pages, three at most
• use informative section headings and subheadings
• use bullets
• use an easily readable font size
• make the margins a reasonable size

Organization of Research Statements

Think of the overarching theme guiding your main research subject area. Write an essay that lays out:

• The main theme(s) and why it is important and what specific skills you use to attack the problem.
• A few specific examples of problems you have already solved with success to build credibility and inform people outside your field about what you do.
• A discussion of the future direction of your research. This section should be really exciting to people both in and outside your field. Don’t sell yourself short; if you think your research could lead to answers for big important questions, say so!
• A final paragraph that gives a good overall impression of your research.

Writing Research Statements

• Avoid jargon. Make sure that you describe your research in language that many people outside your specific subject area can understand. Ask people both in and outside your field to read it before you send your application. A search committee won’t get excited about something they can’t understand.
• Write as clearly, concisely, and concretely as you can.
• Keep it at a summary level; give more detail in the job talk.
• Ask others to proofread it. Be sure there are no spelling errors.
• Convince the search committee not only that you are knowledgeable, but that you are the right person to carry out the research.
• Include information that sets you apart (e.g., publication in  Science, Nature,  or a prestigious journal in your field).
• What excites you about your research? Sound fresh.
• Include preliminary results and how to build on results.
• Point out how current faculty may become future partners.
• Acknowledge the work of others.
• Use language that shows you are an independent researcher.
• BUT focus on your research work, not yourself.
• Include potential funding partners and industrial collaborations. Be creative!
• Provide a summary of your research.
• Put in background material to give the context/relevance/significance of your research.
• List major findings, outcomes, and implications.
• Describe both current and planned (future) research.
• Communicate a sense that your research will follow logically from what you have done and that it will be unique, significant, and innovative (and easy to fund).

Describe Your Future Goals or Research Plans

• Major problem(s) you want to focus on in your research.
• The problem’s relevance and significance to the field.
• Your specific goals for the next three to five years, including potential impact and outcomes.
• If you know what a particular agency funds, you can name the agency and briefly outline a proposal.
• Give broad enough goals so that if one area doesn’t get funded, you can pursue other research goals and funding.

Identify Potential Funding Sources

• Almost every institution wants to know whether you’ll be able to get external funding for research.
• Try to provide some possible sources of funding for the research, such as NIH, NSF, foundations, private agencies.
• Mention past funding, if appropriate.

Be Realistic

There is a delicate balance between a realistic research statement where you promise to work on problems you really think you can solve and over-reaching or dabbling in too many subject areas. Select an over-arching theme for your research statement and leave miscellaneous ideas or projects out. Everyone knows that you will work on more than what you mention in this statement.

Consider Also Preparing a Longer Version

• A longer version (five–15 pages) can be brought to your interview. (Check with your advisor to see if this is necessary.)
• You may be asked to describe research plans and budget in detail at the campus interview. Be prepared.
• Include laboratory needs (how much budget you need for equipment, how many grad assistants, etc.) to start up the research.

Samples of Research Statements

To find sample research statements with content specific to your discipline, search on the internet for your discipline + “Research Statement.”

• University of Pennsylvania Sample Research Statement
• Advice on writing a Research Statement (Plan) from the journal  Science

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Writing a statement of academic research interest

Your ‘statement of research interests’ contains a proposal for future academic research and shows how that builds on your current expertise and achievements. It forms the basis for discussions and your presentation if you are invited for interview.

Tailor it for each academic position you apply for. Your research interests are likely to be broad enough to be tailored to the local interests and expertise. Make sure that there is palpable synergy between the research you are proposing and what the employing department carries out. This is worth the substantial time investment.

In preparing your statement, read your colleagues' statements. ask for feedback from your supervisor/principal investigator or colleagues.

Previous research experience

Consider structuring your research experience by project, tailored as far as possible to your proposed research, as follows:

• achievements
• relevant techniques
• your responsibilities.

Research proposal

If at all possible, talk with people in the department you are applying to. This will raise your profile with potential future colleagues as well as inform your thinking. They are likely enjoy the opportunity to explore exciting new research avenues and will appreciate being asked.  Getting to know them will also make the application process seem less daunting to you.

If you are asked for a research proposal, a word limit is normally specified: this can vary enormously.

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How to Write a Statement of Interest for Research

If you are applying for a research program, one of the key components of your application package is a statement of interest. Your statement of interest or statement of purpose is an important document that allows you to showcase your skills, achievements, and passion for research. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to write a statement of interest for research.

Understanding the Purpose of a Statement of Interest

Before you start writing your statement of interest, it is important to understand its purpose. Your statement of interest should provide the admissions committee with an understanding of your research interests, qualifications, and motivation. It is an opportunity for you to demonstrate your passion for research and convince the committee that you are the right candidate for the program.

A statement of interest is a crucial component of your graduate school application. It is your chance to showcase your research interests and explain why you are the ideal candidate for the program. The statement of interest is often the first thing the admissions committee will read, so it is essential to make a good first impression.

Importance of a well-crafted statement

A well-crafted statement of interest can make a big difference in the outcome of your application. It can help you stand out among other applicants, showing the admissions committee that you are a dedicated and passionate researcher. Therefore, investing time in writing a high-quality statement of interest is crucial to the success of your application.

When crafting your statement of interest, it is important to keep in mind that the admissions committee is looking for candidates who are passionate about their research interests. They want to see that you have a clear understanding of your field and that you are committed to advancing knowledge in that area. A well-crafted statement of interest can help you demonstrate these qualities.

Differentiating between a statement of interest and a personal statement

It is important to recognize that a statement of interest is different from a personal statement. While a personal statement is more general and can focus on various aspects of your personality, a statement of interest should solely focus on your research interests and goals.

When writing your statement of interest, you should avoid discussing personal details that are not relevant to your research interests. Instead, focus on your academic achievements, research experience, and future goals. This will help you demonstrate to the admissions committee that you are a serious candidate who is committed to advancing knowledge in your field.

Keep in mind that the statement of interest is not just a summary of your academic achievements. It is an opportunity for you to explain why you are passionate about your research interests and how you plan to contribute to your field in the future. A well-crafted statement of interest can help you stand out from other applicants and increase your chances of being accepted into your desired graduate program.

Preparing to Write Your Statement of Interest

Before you start writing, it is essential to prepare and conduct thorough research. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Researching the institution and program

Research the institution and program you're applying to. Look into the research interests of faculty members and research projects they're currently working on. This information will help you tailor your statement of interest to the specific program and demonstrate your alignment with the program's research goals.

Identifying your research interests and goals

Reflect on your research interests and goals. Think about what you want to achieve through the research program. Carefully consider your past research experiences and how they have contributed to your goals.

Reflecting on your relevant experiences and skills

Identify your relevant experiences and skills by reflecting on your academic and professional achievements. This will help you highlight your strengths, qualifications, and potential contributions to the program.

Structuring Your Statement of Interest

The following structure can help you organize your statement of interest:

Introduction: Grabbing the reader's attention

Your introduction should be compelling, engaging, and concise. Aim to grab the reader's attention and make them want to continue reading. Introduce your research interests and motivation for applying to the program. Explain what inspired you to pursue further studies in this field.

Body: Showcasing your research interests and qualifications

In the body of your statement, elaborate on your research interests and qualifications. Demonstrate your knowledge of the program and its research goals. Provide specific examples of your academic and professional achievements that relate to your research interests. Make sure that the body is well-structured, easy to read, and clearly expresses your goals and motivation.

Conclusion: Summarizing your goals and motivation

Your concluding paragraph should summarize your key points. Reiterate your research interests and goals and their alignment with the program. Highlight your passion for research and your potential contributions to the program. End on a positive note, showing enthusiasm for the opportunity to join the program.

Tips for Writing an Effective Statement of Interest

Be concise and clear.

Avoid wordiness and ensure your statement is concise and clear. Focus on expressing your ideas effectively in a manner that is easy to understand. Keep your sentences short and to the point, avoiding jargon and technical language that might confuse the reader.

Tailor your statement to the specific program

Your statement of interest should be tailored to the specific research program. Remember to highlight how your research interests and goals align with the program's research goals and demonstrate that you have a thorough understanding of the program and its faculty members.

Demonstrate your passion for research

Your statement should be a reflection of your passion for research. Show the admissions committee that you are committed to your field of study and are dedicated to advancing knowledge in your area of interest.

Proofread and revise

Ensure your statement is error-free by proofreading and revising it after writing. Read it out loud to ensure it flows smoothly and makes sense. Have someone else read your statement and provide feedback on its clarity, structure, grammar, and punctuation.

ChatGPT Prompt for Writing a Statement of Interest for Research

Chatgpt prompt.

Please compose an in-depth and well-articulated description of your interest in conducting research, highlighting the specific topic or area you intend to investigate and the significance of this research. Your statement should demonstrate your understanding of the research process and your ability to contribute meaningfully to the field.

[ADD ADDITIONAL CONTEXT. CAN USE BULLET POINTS.]

Writing an effective statement of interest requires research, planning, and careful consideration of your qualifications, experience, and goals. By following the tips and guidelines provided in this article, you can create a compelling statement that showcases your passion for research and convinces the admissions committee that you are the right candidate for the program.

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How to Write About Your Research Interests 101

Wondering how to write about your research interests without loosing all your hair from stress in the process? Don’t worry – you have the power to make it an enjoyable – and enlightening – process! If you’re keen to secure admission into your dream graduate program, then tailoring your application to align with your passion for research is absolutely essential.

In this blog post, we take a deep dive into what exactly goes into writing about one’s research interests and provide invaluable guidance on how to do so to stand out from the competition. By taking the time and putting some thought into crafting this vital component of your application, you will be setting yourself up for success. So get ready because here come our top tips on how to write with flair about your most passionate research pursuits!

Understanding the purpose of your statement of purpose

Many prospective graduate students apply to graduate school without having a clear idea of how to write about their research interests nor having determined which topics or questions they would like to explore during their studies. This is a fairly normal situation. Many of my clients struggle with this challenge. While some people are concerned that they may be held to their still-developing thoughts, others have not yet truly invested time into the thought process.

Yet, no need to panic. The best way to decrease the anxiety related to learning how to write about your research interests is to take a step back and consider the purpose of your statement of purpose.

It’s important to realize that you are applying to graduate school to learn more, and your statement of purpose should never be about what you already know. The purpose of your statement of purpose is to provide a glimpse into your research interests at a particular moment in time . It is meant to demonstrate your research potential and it should not be seen as the presentation of a long-term commitment to research a precise set of ideas or questions.

So take a deep breath and relax! When starting to write your thesis, nobody will suddenly appear out of nowhere with your SOP or research interest statement in hand, accusing you of lying. As you navigate your way through graduate school, your understanding and perspectives will inevitably expand in countless ways. Many prospective students end up working on something entirely different than what they wrote about in their SOP.

And believe us, nobody gets sued or judged for changing their mind. In fact, admissions committees expect applicants’ ideas to take a slightly different or brand-new direction as they take more courses and become more knowledgeable of their target field, so there is no need to worry if you are unsure how committed you are to your current research interests.

Yet, not being clear on what your research interests are can be problematic, as the research process and field of study that you choose will ideally be an area in which you are passionate about and have at least some knowledge, so it is important to take the time to research and explore various topics before applying. The goal is to commit for the time being to a certain set of questions or a topic .

Keep in mind that admissions committees are more concerned with how the applicant communicates their research interests than with any specific content of the research itself. Furthermore, since many programs require students to pursue individualized study plans or take part in interdisciplinary collaborations during their studies, applicants need to demonstrate their ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.

Thus, admissions committees are looking for applicants that can present their research interests in a compelling way and illustrate how they can add value to the program.

To make a good impression on the admissions committee, you need to emphasize your comprehensive understanding of and passion for your field. Learning how to write about your research interests is all about learning to showcase these qualities in detail, thus demonstrating that you have what it takes to excel in research work. If your statement does not include any pertinent experience or qualifications, then you might come across as inexperienced. To avoid this issue and make a convincing argument for why you are well-suited to the chosen career path, be sure to provide specifics on what makes the field exciting for you and back it up with relevant background information.

What are admissions committees considering when looking at your research interests

Graduate admissions committees consider a variety of factors when evaluating an applicant’s research interest statement. Most notably, they assess the depth and breadth of the student’s knowledge in their chosen field or discipline and their ability to communicate why their research interests are relevant to that particular area.

They also look at how well an applicant understands current literature in the field, the research methods and approaches they plan to take, and their overall commitment to pursuing a graduate degree. In addition, committees may evaluate an applicant’s creativity in developing new research ideas or questions as well as their ability to collaborate with other faculty members or students.

Finally, the committee will consider how well an applicant can articulate a clear vision for their future research plans, indicating their interest in long-term scholarship. Taking these factors into account, graduate admissions committees gain an understanding of how well an applicant is suited to pursue a graduate program and contribute to the university’s overall research strength.

Writing about your research interests might involve… preliminary research!

When writing your statement of purpose, it is important to narrow your research interests as much as possible. Start by researching and familiarizing yourself with the particular field or program you are interested in. Ask yourself questions such as, What kind of research is currently being done? What topics are most commonly discussed? What topics are most relevant to your goals and interests?

Once you have a better understanding of the field, start by focusing on specific topics, ideas, or questions that you are passionate about. You can do this by asking yourself what kind of research requires your unique skillset. What kind of research questions do you find yourself most drawn to? What innovative ideas or solutions can you bring to the field?

If you are still not clear about which tangent to follow in your SOP, take the time to begin familiarizing yourself with the ongoing questions and issues in your field: read recent journal publications, and attend conferences when applicable. Additionally, reading related literature reviews will enable you to construct a language-based framework for expressing your ideas that aligns with prevailing trends and discourse.

By asking yourself these questions, you can narrow your research interests and better define the scope of your research interests. This will help you present yourself as a well-rounded and knowledgeable candidate for the program.

When writing about your research interests for an admissions committee, it is important to be concise and clear. First, create a brief overview of the research topic that you are interested in. When possible, provide examples of how your research interests overlap with the topics being explored by the program or institution for which you are applying. Demonstrate a strong understanding of the research methods and theories that apply to the topic. Additionally, if you have already conducted any research in this area, provide a summary of the findings. Finally, outline your long-term research goals and explain why they fit within the context of the program.

Learning how to write about your research interests is also learning to define your goals

Connecting your research interests to achievable goals is an important part of writing a statement of purpose. It helps to demonstrate that you have thought through the research project and how it can be accomplished in the timeframe of PhD studies. By including realistic, achievable goals, it also shows that you understand what is possible and have considered the potential obstacles that may arise. It is important to avoid being overly ambitious in your statement of purpose as this can lead to unrealistic expectations and a loss of focus, potentially leading to failure to achieve the desired outcomes.

Additionally, presenting achievable goals in your statement of purpose demonstrates that you are confident in what you are proposing, yet also realistic about the challenges that need to be overcome. By doing so, you will provide a strong indication that your research project is well-planned and worth investing in.

It is also important to demonstrate that your research interests are well-aligned with the graduate program you are applying to. This can be done by researching the faculty members and research groups of the university or program and looking for professors whose research focuses on topics related to yours. Once you have identified a few faculty members or research projects of interest, you can begin to explain how your research interests dovetail with their work. In doing so, you can demonstrate that your research is compatible with the program’s offerings and that it will contribute positively to the program’s research goals.

Finally, connecting your research interests to your career goals is essential. Your research will allow you to gain expertise, develop ideas, and build knowledge. This experience can be used to create meaningful connections between courses taken during the program and career paths that may come afterward. Additionally, it can serve as a way to form relationships and build networks that may help you establish a successful career. Make sure to share your short-term and long-term goals after graduation are clearly connected to your interests.

In conclusion

In this blog post, we explored the importance of properly conveying your research interests when writing a graduate school essay. The ability to do so can make all the difference between having your application being accepted and overlooked in the shuffle.

While learning about how to write about your research interests may seem like an especially daunting task, it doesn’t have to be with a little preparation and understanding. We hope you found this post helpful in demystifying the process of writing about your research interests when applying to graduate schools. If after reading our post you are still feeling overwhelmed to write up a stunning graduate school essay that showcases your research interests, fear not! I am here to help and take some of the stress of applying away.

The Admit Lab’s mission is to empower you with the tools needed for success by making sure your story stands out. So don’t waste any more time – check out our graduate essay services today! Got questions? Sign up for a consultation or send us a copy of your draft for an assessment, it’s FREE!

With a Master’s from McGill University and a Ph.D. from New York University, Dr. Philippe Barr is the founder of The Admit Lab . As a tenure-track professor, Dr. Barr spent a decade teaching and serving on several graduate admission committees at UNC-Chapel Hill before turning to full-time consulting. With more than seven years of experience as a graduate school admissions consultant, Dr. Barr has stewarded the candidate journey across multiple master’s and Ph.D. programs and helped hundreds of students get admitted to top-tier graduate programs all over the world .

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Accepted Admissions Blog

Everything you need to know to get Accepted

December 8, 2023

How to Write About Your Research Interests

The most common challenge that my master’s and PhD applicant clients face when writing a statement of research interests or a statement of purpose (SOP) is how to describe in concrete terms what their research interests and goals are. This is understandable. Their ideas are still evolving, and some worry that they’ll later be held to the ideas they stated in their applications, as though they were chiseled in stone. Others simply haven’t yet thought those ideas through very much. 

Take a deep breath! By the time you begin writing your thesis, I promise that no one will pop up and wave your SOP or research interests statement around, saying, “But that’s not what you said here!” Everyone knows that your knowledge and ideas will develop throughout your grad program. 

Here are the two things that a great statement of research interests or SOP will do:

• It  will clearly illustrate to the admissions committee that you possess a depth of interest and comprehension in your field and that you understand what goes into research. You will sound naïve if you talk about ideas that are too vague or nebulous, or ones that cannot be addressed adequately through your discipline.  
• It will explain any relevant background you have in this field, why you find it compelling, and  why you are well suited for this career track . 

Four questions to help you find your statement focus

To narrow your interests into something that is concrete enough for you to be able to write about convincingly, without being overly general, ask yourself these questions:

• What are the broad research questions/issues that interest you? Create a summary of your interests that you can work with, and describe your interests in a sentence – or a paragraph, at most.  
• Within those broad areas of interest, can you begin to focus on more specific questions? If you’re not sure what the current questions/problems are in your field, now is the time to start catching up. Read recent journal publications, and go to conferences if you can. Reading the literature in your field will also give you a sense of how to frame your ideas in the language of your field.  
• Have you done any research in this field already? If so, do you intend to build on your previous work in grad school or go in a new direction?  
• How will your research contribute to the field?

Understanding how to present your goals

Some projects described in SOPs are achievable in the short term, while others are big enough to last a career. If your interests/goals fall into this latter category, acknowledge your ambitions, and try to identify some element of your interests that you can pursue as a first step.

Once you have demonstrated your skills (and past experience) in your field, you will be better equipped to define your next steps. 

Focusing your interests will also involve doing more detailed research about the programs to which you plan to apply. For example, consider the following questions:

• Who might be your research supervisor?  
• How do your interests relate to the work this scholar or these scholars are doing now?  
• How would you contribute to the department and to the discipline?

Your SOP will also address your post-degree, longer-term goals. Consider this: do you envision yourself pursuing a career in research/academia? (For many PhD programs, this remains the department’s formal expectation, even though many PhDs find employment outside the academy.) If you’re applying for a master’s degree, be prepared to discuss what your future plans are and how the degree will help you. 

Working on your SOP or statement of research interests?

Your SOP needs to be direct, informative, and… well… purposeful! When you choose Accepted, we match you with a dedicated advisor who will help you create an SOP that best reflects your experiences, goals, and intense desire to attend your target graduate school program. And did you know that Accepted’s clients have received millions of dollars in scholarship offers? Don’t delay – get started now by checking out our  Graduate School Application Services .

For 25 years, Accepted has helped applicants gain acceptance to top undergraduate and graduate programs. Our expert team of admissions consultants features former admissions directors, PhDs, and professional writers who have advised clients to acceptance at top programs worldwide, including Harvard, Stanford, Yale, Princeton, Penn, Columbia, Oxford, Cambridge, INSEAD, MIT, Caltech, UC Berkeley, and Northwestern. Want an admissions expert to help you get Accepted? Click here to get in touch!

Related Resources:

• STEM Applicants: Why Your Statement of Purpose is So Important
• Three Must-Have Elements of a Good Statement of Purpose
• Writing Your Career Goals Essay

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Graduate School Applications: Writing a Research Statement

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What is a Research Statement?

A research statement is a short document that provides a brief history of your past research experience, the current state of your research, and the future work you intend to complete.

The research statement is a common component of a potential candidate’s application for post-undergraduate study. This may include applications for graduate programs, post-doctoral fellowships, or faculty positions. The research statement is often the primary way that a committee determines if a candidate’s interests and past experience make them a good fit for their program/institution.

What Should It Look Like?

Research statements are generally one to two single-spaced pages. You should be sure to thoroughly read and follow the length and content requirements for each individual application.

Your research statement should situate your work within the larger context of your field and show how your works contributes to, complicates, or counters other work being done. It should be written for an audience of other professionals in your field.

What Should It Include?

Your statement should start by articulating the broader field that you are working within and the larger question or questions that you are interested in answering. It should then move to articulate your specific interest.

The body of your statement should include a brief history of your past research . What questions did you initially set out to answer in your research project? What did you find? How did it contribute to your field? (i.e. did it lead to academic publications, conferences, or collaborations?). How did your past research propel you forward?

It should also address your present research . What questions are you actively trying to solve? What have you found so far? How are you connecting your research to the larger academic conversation? (i.e. do you have any publications under review, upcoming conferences, or other professional engagements?) What are the larger implications of your work?

Finally, it should describe the future trajectory on which you intend to take your research. What further questions do you want to solve? How do you intend to find answers to these questions? How can the institution to which you are applying help you in that process? What are the broader implications of your potential results?

Note: Make sure that the research project that you propose can be completed at the institution to which you are applying.

Other Considerations:

• What is the primary question that you have tried to address over the course of your academic career? Why is this question important to the field? How has each stage of your work related to that question?
• Include a few specific examples that show your success. What tangible solutions have you found to the question that you were trying to answer? How have your solutions impacted the larger field? Examples can include references to published findings, conference presentations, or other professional involvement.
• Be confident about your skills and abilities. The research statement is your opportunity to sell yourself to an institution. Show that you are self-motivated and passionate about your project.

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Top tip: how to write a strong statement of interest.

A statement of interest, also known as statement of intent and description of research interests, is an important component of most graduate school applications. According to one of our faculty members, “The statement of interest is your opportunity to provide more evidence that you will succeed in your program.”

So how to get it right? 

Read the instructions.  Visit the website of the graduate program you’re interested in and check what their guidelines might be. These may include page and word count limitations, document upload specifications and specific questions. 

Demonstrate fit. Show an understanding of the type of work done in the department, and provide an explanation of what you want to study, which should match up with some of the research interests in the faculty.

Be specific. Why UBC? Why this program? Be clear about what you want to do in the program and how the program can support you. 

Be flexible. Indicate your well thought out and informed ideas, but allow them to be malleable. Sketch out a potential research agenda with room for further developmentand show interest in both a particular research area as well as alternative projects.

Be clear. Avoid repetition. Watch out for spelling mistakes and typos, irrelevant personal information, information already contained in other parts of your application, as well as general statements of enthusiasm, empty loyalty, and vague references without any details. Most importantly, don’t forget to proofread. 

And if you feel stuck, start with these questions:

• Why are you interested in this field of study?
• What is your background and how does it relate?
• Can you describe your previous research experience and how it has formed your current interests?
• What is your motivation for proposing a particular research path?
• Are you able to connect your area of interest to work being done in the program?
• Is there anything the admissions committee should be aware of that is not addressed in other parts of your application?
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How to Write a Good Cover Letter for a Research Position

Writing a cover letter can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be!

Some people believe cover letters are a science. Others seem to think they are more akin to black magic. Regardless of how you feel about cover letters, they are one of the most important parts of the job application process. Your resume or CV may get you an interview, but a good cover letter is what ensures that the hiring manager reads your resume in the first place.

Writing a cover letter for any job is important, but the art of writing a good cover letter for a research position can make or break your application. While writing a cover letter for a research position, you have to walk a fine line of proving your expertise and passion while limiting jargon and dense language.

In this post, we will explain cover letter writing basics, and then dive into how to write a research specific cover letter with examples of both good and bad practices.

What Is A Cover Letter and Why Do Cover Letters Matter?

A cover letter is your opportunity to tell a story and connect the dots of your resume. Resumes and curriculum vitae (CVs) are often cold and static—they don’t show any sort of character that will give companies a hint about if you will fit in with their culture. 

Your cover letter gives you the chance to demonstrate that you are an interesting, qualified, and intelligent person. Without proving that you are worth the time to interview, a company or research organization will set your application in the rejection pile without giving it a second look. 

So, what is a cover letter, exactly? It is an explanation (written out in paragraph form) of what you can bring to the company that goes beyond the information in your resume. Cover letters give a company a glimpse into the qualities that will make you the ideal candidate for their opening. 

Note that a cover letter is not the same as a letter of intent. A cover letter is written for a specific job opening. For example, if I got an email saying that the University of Colorado was looking for a tenure track faculty member to teach GEO 1001, and I chose to apply, I would write a cover letter. 

A letter of intent, however, is written regardless of the job opening. It is intended to express an interest in working at a particular company or with a particular group. The goal of a letter of intent is to demonstrate your interest in the company (or whatever type of group you are appealing to) and illustrate that you are willing to work with them in whatever capacity they feel is best. 

For example, if I loved the clothing company, Patagonia and wanted to work there, I could write a letter of intent. They may have an opening for a sales floor associate, but after reading my application and letter of intent, decide I would be better suited to a design position. Or, they may not have any positions open at all, but choose to keep my resume on hand for the next time they do. 

Most organizations want a cover letter, not a letter of intent, so it is important to make sure your cover letter caters to the specifics of the job posting. A cover letter should also demonstrate why you want to work at the company, but it should be primarily focused on why you can do the job better than any of the other applicants.

How to Write a Good Cover Letter: The Basics 

Writing a cover letter isn’t hard. Writing a good cover letter, a cover letter that will encourage a hiring manager to look at your application and schedule an interview, is more difficult (but certainly not impossible). Below, we will go over each of the important parts of a cover letter: the salutation, introduction, body, and conclusion, as well as some other best practices.

How to Write a Good Cover Letter Salutation

Don’t start with “Dear Sir/Ma’am” (or any iteration of a vague greeting, including “to whom it may concern”). Avoiding vague greetings is the oldest trick in the book, but it still holds a lot of weight. Starting a cover letter with the above phrase is pretty much stamping “I didn’t bother to research this company at all because I am sending out a million generic cover letters” across your application. It doesn’t look good. 

The best practice is to do your research and use your connections to find a name. “Dear Joe McGlinchy” means a lot more than “Dear Hiring Manager.” LinkedIn is a great tool for this—you can look up the company, then look through the employees until you find someone that seems like they hire for the relevant department. 

The most important thing about the salutation is to address a real human. By selecting someone in the company, you’ve demonstrated that you’ve done some research and are actually interested in this company specifically. Generic greetings aren’t eye-catching and don’t do well.

How to Write a Good Cover Letter Introduction

Once you’ve addressed your cover letter to a real human being, you need a powerful introduction to prove that this cover letter is worth the time it will take to read. This means that you need a hook. 

Your first sentence needs to be a strong starter, something to encourage the hiring manager not only to continue reading the cover letter, but to look at your application as well. If you have a contact in the company, you should mention them in the first sentence. Something along the lines of “my friend, Amanda Rice (UX/UI manager), suggested I apply for the natural language processing expert position after we worked together on a highly successful independent project.” 

The example above uses a few techniques. The name drop is good, but that only works if you actually have a connection in the company. Beyond that, this example has two strengths. First, it states the name of the position. This is important because hiring managers can be hiring for several different positions at a time, and by immediately clarifying which position you are applying for, you make their job a little bit easier.  Next, this sentence introduces concrete skills that apply to the job. That is a good way to start because it begins leading into the body, where you will go into depth about how exactly your experience and skills make you perfect for the job. 

Another technique for a strong lead-in to a cover letter is to begin with an applicable personal experience or anecdote. This attracts more attention than stereotypical intros (like the example above), but you have to be careful to get to the point quickly. Give yourself one or two sentences to tell the story and prove your point before you dive into your skills and the main body of the cover letter.

A more standard technique for introductions is simply expressing excitement. No matter how you choose to start, you want to demonstrate that you are eager about the position, and there is no easier way to do that than just saying it. This could take the form of “When I saw the description for X job on LinkedIn, I was thrilled: it is the perfect job for my Y skills and Z experience.” This option is simple and to-the-point, which can be refreshing for time-crunched hiring managers. 

Since we’ve provided a few good examples, we will offer a bad example, so you can compare and contrast. Don’t write anything along the line of: “My name is John Doe, and I am writing to express my interest in the open position at your company.” 

There are a few issues here. First, they can probably figure out your name. You don’t need that to be in the first sentence (or any of the sentences—the closing is an obvious enough spot). Next, “the open position” and “your company” are too generic. That sounds like the same cover letter you sent to every single employer in a hundred mile radius. Give the specifics! Finally, try to start with a little more spice. Add in some personality, something to keep the hiring manager reading. If you bore them to death in the first line, they aren’t going to look over your resume and application with the attention they deserve. 

How to Write a Good Cover Letter Body

So, you’ve addressed a real human being, and you’ve snagged their attention with a killer opening line. What next? Well, you have to hold on to that attention by writing an engaging and informative cover letter body. 

The body of a cover letter is the core of the important information you want to transmit. The introduction’s job was to snag the attention of the hiring manager. The body’s job is to sell them on your skills.  There are a few formatting things to be aware of before we start talking about what content belongs in the body of the cover letter. First, keep the company culture and standards in mind when picking a format. For example, if I want to work for a tech startup that is known for its wit and company culture, I can probably get away with using a bulleted list or another informal format. However, if I am applying to a respected research institution, using a standard five paragraph format is best. 

In addition, the cover letter should not be longer than a page. Hiring managers are busy people. They may have hundreds of resumes to read, so they don’t need a three page essay per person. A full page is plenty, and many hiring managers report finding three hundred words or less to be the idea length. Just to put that into context, the text from here to the “How to Write a Good Cover Letter Body” header below is about perfect, length-wise. 

Now, on to the more important part: the content. A cover letter should work in tandem with a resume. If you have a list of job experiences on your resume, don’t list them again in the cover letter. Use the valuable space in the cover letter to give examples about how you have applied your skills and experience. 

For example, if I have worked as a barista, I wouldn’t just say “I have worked as a barista at Generic Cafe.” The hiring manager could learn that from my resume. Instead, I could say “Working as a barista at Generic Cafe taught me to operate under pressure without feeling flustered. Once…” I would go on to recount a short story that illustrated my ability to work well under pressure. It is important that the stories and details you choose to include are directly related to the specific job. Don’t ramble or add anything that isn’t obviously connected. Use the job description as a tool—if it mentions a certain skill a few times, make sure to include it!

If you can match the voice and tone of your cover letter to the voice of the company, that usually earns you extra points. If, in their communications, they use wit, feel free to include it in your letter as well. If they are dry, to the point, and serious, cracking jokes is not the best technique.

A Few Don’ts of Writing a Cover Letter Body   

There are a few simple “don’ts” in cover letter writing. Do not: 

• Bad: I am smart, dedicated, determined, and funny.
• Better: When I was working at Tech Company, I designed and created an entirely new workflow that cut the product delivery time in half. 
• Bad: When I was seven, I really loved the monkeys at the zoo. This demonstrates my fun-loving nature. 
• Better: While working for This Company, I realized I was far more productive if I was light-hearted. I became known as the person to turn to in my unit when my coworkers needed a boost, and as my team adopted my ideology, we exceeded our sales goals by 200%. 
• Bad: I would love this job because it would propel me to the next stage of my career.
• Better: With my decade of industry experience communicating with engineers and clients, I am the right person to manage X team. 
• Bad: I know I’m not the most qualified candidate for this job, but…
• Better: I can apply my years of experience as an X to this position, using my skills in Y and Z to… 
• Bad: I am a thirty year old white woman from Denver…
• Better: I have extensive experience managing diverse international teams, as illustrated by the time I…  

The most important part of the cover letter is the body. Sell your skills by telling stories, but walk the razor’s edge between saying too much and not enough. When in doubt, lean towards not enough—it is better for the hiring manager to call you in for an interview to learn more than to bore them.

How to Write a Good Cover Letter Conclusion

 The last lines of a cover letter are extremely important. Until you can meet in-person for an interview, the conclusion of your cover letter will greatly affect the impression the hiring manager has of you. A good technique for concluding your cover letter is to summarize, in a sentence, what value you can bring to the company and why you are perfect for the position. Sum up the most important points from your cover letter in a short, concise manner. 

Write with confidence, but not arrogance. This can be a delicate balance. While some people have gotten away (and sometimes gotten a job) with remarks like, “I’ll be expecting the job offer soon,” most do not. Closing with a courteous statement that showcases your capability and skills is far more effective than arrogance. Try to avoid trite or generic statements in the closing sentence as well. This includes the template, “I am very excited to work for XYZ Company.” Give the hiring manager something to remember and close with what you can offer the company. 

The final step in any cover letter is to edit. Re-read your cover letter. Then, set it aside for a few hours (or days, time permitting) and read it again. Give it to a friend to read. Read it aloud. This may seem excessive, but there is nothing more off-putting than a spelling or grammar error in the first few lines of a cover letter. The hiring manager may power through and ignore it, but it will certainly taint their impression. 

Once the cover letter is as flawless and compelling as it can be, send it out! If you are super stuck on how to get started, working within a template may help. Microsoft Word has many free templates that are aesthetically appealing and can give you a hint to the length and content. A few good online options live here (free options are at the bottom—there is no reason to pay for a resume template).

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Research Position

Writing a cover letter for a research position is the same as writing any other cover letter. There are, however, a few considerations and additions that are worth pointing out. A job description may not directly ask for a cover letter, but it is good practice to send one unless they specifically say not to. This means that even if a cover letter isn’t mentioned, you should send one—it is best practice and gives you an opportunity to expand on your skills and research in a valuable way.

Format and Writing Style for a Research Position Cover Letter

Research and academics tend to appreciate formality more than start-ups or tech companies, so using the traditional five paragraph format is typically a good idea. The five paragraph format usually includes an introduction, three short examples of skills, and a concluding paragraph. This isn’t set in stone—if you’d rather write two paragraphs about the skills and experience you bring to the company, that is fine. 

Keep in mind that concise and to-the-point writing is extremely valuable in research. Anyone who has ever written a project proposal under 300 words knows that every term needs to add value. Proving that you are a skilled writer, starting in your cover letter, will earn you a lot of points. This means that cover letters in research and academia, though you may have more to say, should actually be shorter than others. Think of the hiring manager—they are plowing through a massive stack of verbose, technical, and complex cover letters and CVs. It is refreshing to find an easy to read, short cover letter. 

On the “easy to read” point, remember that the hiring manager may not be an expert in your field. Even if they are, you cannot assume that they have the exact same linguistic and educational background as you. For example, if you have dedicated the last five years of your life to studying a certain species of bacteria that lives on Red-Eyed Tree Frogs, all of those technical terms you have learned (and maybe even coined) have no place in your cover letter. Keep jargon to an absolute minimum. Consider using a tool like the Hemingway Editor to identify and eliminate jargon. While you want to reduce jargon, it is still important to prove that you’ve researched their research. Passion about the research topic is one of the most valuable attributes that a new hire can offer. 

Use your cover letter to prove that you have done your homework, know exactly what the institution or group is doing, and want to join them. If you have questions about the research or want to learn more, it isn’t a bad idea to get in touch with one of the researchers. You can often use LinkedIn or the group’s staff site to learn who is working on the project and reach out.

What Research Information Should be Included in a Cover Letter

A research position cover letter is not the place for your academic history, dissertation, or publications. While it may be tempting to go into detail about the amazing research you did for your thesis, that belongs in your CV. Details like this will make your cover letter too long. While these are valuable accomplishments, don’t include them unless there is something  that pertains to the group’s research, and your CV doesn’t cover it in depth. 

If you do choose to write about your research, write about concrete details and skills that aren’t in your CV. For example, if you have spent the last few years working on identifying the effects of a certain gene sequence in bird migration, include information about the lab techniques you used. Also, try to put emphasis on the aspects of your resume and CV that make you stand out from other candidates. It is likely that you will be competing with many similarly qualified candidates, so if you have a unique skill or experience, make sure it doesn’t get lost in the chaos—a cover letter is the perfect place to highlight these sorts of skills. 

Industry experience is a great differentiator. If you have relevant industry experience, make sure to include it in your cover letter because it will almost certainly set you apart. Another valuable differentiator is a deep and established research network. If you have been working on research teams for years and have deep connections with other scientists, don’t be afraid to include this information. This makes you a very valuable acquisition for the company because you come with an extensive network

Include Soft Skills in Your Cover Letter

Scientific skills aren’t the only consideration for hiring managers. Experience working with and leading teams is incredibly valuable in the research industry. Even if the job description doesn’t mention teamwork, add a story or description of a time you worked with (or, even better, lead) a successful team. Soft skills like management, customer service, writing, and clear communication are important in research positions. Highlight these abilities and experiences in your cover letter in addition to the hard skills and research-based information. 

If you are struggling to edit and polish your letter, give it to both someone within your field and someone who is completely unfamiliar with your research (or, at least, the technical side of it). Once both of those people say that the letter makes sense and is compelling, you should feel confident submitting it.

Cover letters are intended to give hiring managers information beyond what your resume and CV are able to display. Write with a natural but appropriately formal voice, do your research on the position, and cater to the job description. A good cover letter can go a long way to getting you an interview, and with these tips, your cover letters will certainly stand out of the pile.

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Research Interests

In this strategy, writers discuss their current research interest(s) by suggesting research directions, showing commitment to research, or stating the potential value of prospective research. This can be done by identifying general and specific research topics, possible future research and/or thesis/dissertation topics, and the implications and value of the research. This strategy is especially important for those applying to doctoral programs as articulating research interests can start to show a direct connection to a program and professor. For this reason, this is considered this a required strategy.

Here are some examples of how writers use the Research Interests strategy in their SoPs. Notice how the writers use the language of the discipline; if this isn’t your field of study, you might not know what these topics are; however, we can understand that the writers are discussing their interests because of language like “I am interested in studying,” “I would like to study,” and “I would like to center my research on.”

A Guide to Writing the Statement of Purpose for Graduate School Applications Copyright © by Erin Todey is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Sample Research Interest Letter for Pre-Meds

Posted in: Extracurriculars

Why Undergraduate Research is Important for Medical School Applications

Research is an important part of the medical school application process. Medical schools often look for pre-meds who have done some, or substantial, research as part of their undergraduate careers. One of the  Core Competencies for Entering Medical Students  is in fact Scientific Inquiry. Under thinking and reasoning, the AAMC states:

Scientific Inquiry : Applies knowledge of the scientific process to integrate and synthesize information, solve problems and formulate research questions and hypotheses; is facile in the language of the sciences and uses it to participate in the discourse of science and explain how scientific knowledge is discovered and validated. https://www.aamc.org/services/admissions-lifecycle/competencies-entering-medical-students

Applicants who can demonstrate scientific inquiry through research are going to be at an advantage when it comes to their medical school applications . Gaining clinical laboratory experience is incredibly beneficial, as is clinical research. Being able to publish these results is even more beneficial and something that medical schools look very favorable upon. Whether it’s a first author publication or you are just part of the group, showing that your research culminated in a scientific paper is great. If you can’t, you want to at least be able to put an abstract presented at a conference on your resume.

Quick Link: Research Roadmap

How to Get a Research Position

One of the most common questions we get is how to actually get research experience. The best way is typically through your own undergraduate university and scouring the website for professors who are doing work you are interested in. Once you’ve found that potential faculty mentor, it’s important to contact them with a strong email indicating your interest. Schools often have research databases, such as this one at the University of California Riverside:

• Undergraduate Research Portal

Searching for your particular undergrad school will likely lead to even more research opportunities. For instance, UC Riverside has many additional research areas outlined, like this list of programs in the Department of Psychology.

Sample Email to Professors

Below, we’ve included a sample letter to base your ideas on. Of course, every student should personalize this letter based on their areas of interest and the benefits of working in a particular lab.

Dear Professor X:

I hope this email finds you well. My name is ____ and I am an undergraduate student majoring in ______ at the University of ____. As part of my education, I would love to be more intimately involved in a laboratory and yours jumped out at me because of the emphasis on ________. I have a background in ______ through some of my undergraduate course work to date, which includes ________, ______ and ______. I was especially interested in the work you have done on _____ (research the website and find articles that jump out at you).

Moreover, I really enjoy _________ because of the impact it can potentially make on ________. My goal with a research position is to gain long-term exposure and be able to help the laboratory in any way I can, advance my own scientific skills and of course, help advance science. I am able to commit x hours or more, if necessary.

Would it be possible to meet with you to further discuss and my possible involvement in research under your guidance? I appreciate your consideration and look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely, ____________

Best of luck in obtaining a research position! It will pay dividends for your application. Contact us at MedSchoolCoach if you have any questions about being a pre-med.

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How to write a statement of research interest for postdoc positions that already have a defineed research direction

I'm currently applying for a postdoc position in a particular lab. The lab has several postdoc positions available at this time, those postdocs will work on different aspects of a larger research project.The application need to include statement of research interest, CV, references and recommendation letters in one document, and also clearly state which position (which aspect of the research) I apply for.

I feel I'm a good fit for two of the positions. However, I don't know how to write a statement of research interest that is suitable for both positions, although those two aspects of the research are connected. From all the examples I saw for research statement, future research is a big part of it. With the research direction and aspects are clearly defined for the positions, what should I write in the section of future research?

• research-statement

• Welcome to academia.SE. The question would be more readable with a paragraph break or two. You can edit it to add them. –  Tommi Commented Aug 31, 2019 at 6:26

One way is to write an SOP that is a bit more general then you would do otherwise, but not so general as to seem unserious. If you do it carefully, it can be an advantage. I think that an SOP too tailored to a particular position might not be taken seriously -- too good to be true. But don't go to the other extreme of suggesting that your interests are so broad that you don't/can't specialize as needed.

I wouldn't recommend this for positions that were widely different, but it might be good here, as you say they are related.

But, as you say, the direction of the lab is set and a post-doc isn't likely to change that. If your research interests are aligned, your "future research" ideas will probably fit as long as you don't overemphasize the specifics more than needed.

This is a Three Bears sort of problem. Too general. Too specific. No, just right.

• 1 The last line is the true answer... –  Solar Mike Commented Aug 30, 2019 at 18:47
• I agree. Don't be too detailed and specific with your research interests. Just focus on the skills and the specific issues relevant to the position. You can write two different SOPs even though it is with the same lab. One position may be more aligned with your future interest and you can elaborate on specific future plans, etc. For the less aligned postdoc, just focus on the generic skills and aspects of the post doc and how that fit into your overall skills development? –  Poidah Commented Aug 31, 2019 at 0:07

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How To Write A Letter Of Interest (Sample Templates Included)

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

By Mike Simpson

Updated 5/9/2022

We’ve all been there… You’ve combed all of the job boards in search of the perfect job but, alas, haven’t been able to find anything that’s a great fit. Fortunately, there’s still one more lifeline you have at your disposal, and if used properly, it can end up being one of the most rewarding things you do for your career.

So what is this secret weapon I speak of? A letter of interest, of course!

With a letter of interest, you can connect with more opportunities. Here’s how.

What Is a Letter of Interest?

A letter of interest is a letter you send to your target company, letting them know that you’re interested in working with them. It’s also a way to see if there are any potential job opportunities that match up with your skillset that aren’t openly advertised, allowing you to tap into the hidden job market . Since over 80 percent of jobs go unadvertised, that’s a big deal.

Generally speaking, a letter of interest can be sent at any time regardless of whether a company is actively hiring, as it isn’t sent in response to a specific job opening. Rather, it’s a way of introducing yourself to a company you’re interested in and seeing about the possibility of employment with them.

Letters of interest are sometimes also called letters of inquiry for just this reason. You’re inquiring if they might have a position for you. This is the part of the equation that can be very rewarding. Rather than applying to jobs that aren’t a stellar match, you get to handpick the companies that you contact. Pretty awesome, right? We think so.

Letter of Interest vs. Cover Letter

In many ways, a letter of interest is like a cover letter. However, when it comes to a letter of interest vs. cover letter, there are differences, too.

Generally speaking, cover letters typically target specific, open jobs. With a letter of interest, you’re reaching out even though there isn’t an advertised vacancy.

Since that’s the case, cover letters are more targeted. They speak to a specific position, referencing details from the job ad. Letters of interest are a touch more general, highlighting your strengths in a field and how you could benefit the company in a broad sense without connecting it to a particular role.

How To Write a Letter of Interest

Much like any correspondence you send any employer, you have to make sure that a letter of interest for a job is well crafted and appropriate. You’re introducing yourself to a potential employer, so you want to put your best foot forward.

A poorly written letter of inquiry can potentially make any possibility of working at your dream job with your target company a solid “NO” in the “Do you like me?” boxes. That means you need to ensure you take the time to do it right.

If you do it correctly, a letter of interest is a great way to demonstrate your ability to market yourself and highlight your best qualifications. Plus, it can lead to real opportunities.

Tailoring Your Letter of Interest

As you’ve no doubt seen in our other blog posts, we’re very big on tailoring. Your letter of interest is another opportunity (actually, the first opportunity!) for you to find out exactly what the company is looking for and present yourself as that person.

When applying for a specific position, you have the benefit of using the job description to comb through in search of the qualities that the company puts a lot of value in. But since this is a letter of interest, you are traditionally not applying to a specific position, so you need to be a little more creative. Since that’s the case, you need to do some hardcore research, taking the time to learn about the specific type of people the company likes to hire.

Researching a Company Through Their Online Presence

There is a virtual treasure trove of information available about a company when you peruse its various web properties. Since you’re looking to learn more about the people who get hired to work there, it’s wise to spend time digging into each web property in search of clues.

Quite often, there are “day in the life” videos featuring employee interviews that are incredibly useful. You can also go to the employee list on the company’s LinkedIn page and go through the profiles to see what experience and skills they have.

Putting the “Tailoring Method” To Work

Once you have figured out the types of people that your company hires, you want to do your best to emulate them in your letter of interest. Choose a few skills and abilities that you want to highlight that align with what your research revealed about the employees. Then, start thinking up a quick supporting statement for each one that you use. After all, if you can’t back it up, there is no point in even mentioning it.

Once you have done the research and have uncovered the qualities that you want to showcase, you are ready to begin writing your letter of interest.

Best Letter of Interest Format

Half of the battle is making sure that you nail your letter of interest format. After all, you won’t exactly be making the best first impression if your letter is a convoluted mess that is hard to read and makes no sense.

Here is the basic format for you to follow, which you can see in the three examples we use below:

Your Contact Info

No surprises here. Name, address, telephone number, email, and your website. If you’re not comfortable providing your address or any other information, don’t worry about it. Just make sure they can get in touch with you!

Use a traditional format for the date, writing out the month, followed by the day, and ending with the year.

Company Contact Info

Please don’t start the letter with “to whom it may concern.” Do the research and find a specific person to address the letter to. A good place to start would be a hiring manager, another person in HR, or even better, the manager or director of the department you envision yourself working in.

Opening Paragraph

Introduce yourself and your intentions.

Qualification/Experience Paragraph

Attack this paragraph with two purposes in mind:

• Showing how you add value
• Demonstrating you have the qualities they value

This is your time to shine. Keep it brief and succinct, picking two to three qualities and supporting them with facts.

Closing Paragraph

Thank them for their time and offer your availability for an “informational interview” at their earliest convenience.

What’s an informational interview? It’s both an opportunity for you to learn more about the company and the various positions within the company AND a great way for you to meet the right people in the organization you are interested in.

More importantly, it’s an opportunity for you to let your award-winning personality shine, and if executed properly, it can help you land a job at the company of your dreams!

Stick with “regards” or just “sincerely,” add your name, and you’ll be good to go.

Common Mistakes

Many people fall into the same traps and make some of these classic letter of interest mistakes. Do your best to avoid these if you want to get your foot in the door!

1. You don’t send a letter of interest at all

Too often, people find a company they’d like to work for and just blindly send in a resume with nothing else attached. Sure, it might be a super impressive resume, but if you don’t include a letter of interest discussing why you’re sending it in and who you are, you might as well just be throwing those resumes away.

On the flip side…DO NOT FORGET TO INCLUDE YOUR RESUME!

2. Sending your letter of interest out with a generic heading

As mentioned above, you need to take the time to do a little digging and find out to who you should address your letter. Sending out a generic “Dear HR Director” or “To Whom It May Concern” isn’t going to win you any brownie points.

3. Not saying what you can do for them, but what they can do for you

Regardless of why you’re interested, remember, it’s about what you can do for them, not what they can do for you! Tell them what you can do to help them achieve their goals.

4. Not tailoring your letter

If you’re going to show initiative by writing a letter of inquiry, make sure that initiative extends to your research as well! Supercharge your letter by highlighting qualities that align with the company values, increasing your odds of success.

5. Being boring

You’re shooting for your target company and your dream job, so don’t simply make a list of all of your skills and abilities. Instead, make sure to dazzle them with what you bring to the table, adding something extra to generate interest.

6. Being too long

Your goal is to catch their attention and leave them wanting more…which means short, sweet, and to the point. Keep your letter under a page.

7. Being sloppy

There is no excuse for typos or sloppy writing. You’re trying to get an informational (or even a full-on) interview, so get these basics right. Check. Double-check, and then check again!

8. Not following up

Yes, you should treat your letter of interest exactly like and job application and follow up.

Sending a letter of interest is a proactive step, so keep being proactive! Ask for a job interview, an informational interview, or a meeting HR director to talk about potential roles you might fill. Then, follow up on that request.

A Few Great Letter of Interest Sample Templates

Now that we have that out of the way, let’s take a look at a few examples so you can get your own started! Here are three different scenarios from which you might decide to write a letter of interest to a company.

Choose the best letter of interest sample that fits with your situation, but don’t simply copy the example word-for-word. You need to input your own experiences and personality, so think of this letter of interest sample as more of a template that will guide you to success!

Letter of interest for your target company following a positive encounter:

Your Address

Your City, State, Zip Code

Your Phone Number

City, State Zip

Dear (remember, make this specific!):

I recently had the opportunity to interact with a few members of your customer support team while conducting research for a project. My time with them was brief but memorable. Your team was friendly, poised, and professional, and I was impressed with their willingness to help and their quick responses to my questions.

It is clear customer satisfaction is an integral part of your company’s core values. It is for this reason that I am writing to you. I feel my own personal values and special talents might benefit your customer service department. I believe in personal accountability and integrity and have always made sure to act in a professional and ethical manner. Attention to detail is similarly a priority, ensuring that my work is nothing short of my best at all times.

If I were to be hired by your company, I would be dedicated to delivering the same kind of high-quality customer service I myself experienced. Both a motivated self-starter and an enthusiastic team player, I feel I’d be an exceptional fit.

In the hopes of scheduling an interview with you or answering any questions you might have, I will call you [upcoming date]. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions at any time at [phone number] or email, [email address].

Thank you for your time in considering my qualifications.

Letter of interest following a write up of the target company:

Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name,

While reading through a trade publication last week, I came across an article outlining why your company has been recognized as one of the best places to work in the country for tech professionals. Your entire focus has been on making sure that your company is not only a leader in the industry but also an innovator, pioneering new and emerging technology. For this reason, I am sending you my resume in the hopes that I might be able to join your team.

I have worked exclusively within the technology field for the past five years. During that time, I’ve worked in a variety of positions, giving me experience in accounting, including finance and budgeting. I was also responsible for inventory control and vendor relations. I have been instrumental in my past positions in bringing new and emerging technology into our business processes, and I am actively looking for opportunities with companies that would allow me to continue that practice. I believe strongly in always being at the forefront of technological development, a perspective I feel your company has, too.

As a team leader, I am proud of the fact that not only have we never missed a deadline but that we have come in under budget while delivering superior results every time. I firmly believe in the integrity and professionalism of my work, striving to ensure that every aspect of what I do also upholds the company’s core values.

I will call you on [date] to answer any questions about this letter or my resume in the hope of scheduling an interview. If you prefer, please contact me by phone [phone number] or email, [email address].

Letter of interest for a recent graduate looking for work:

I read about [company name]’s retail management training program in [publication name], and I would like to inquire about the possibility of openings. As a recent graduate from the University of California with a degree in Business Management, I am very interested in a career in retail management, and think your program is a perfect match for both my skills and my experiences. I have over five years of retail experience, including time as a Sales Associate and a Manager.

Along with this letter, I have included my resume, which contains additional information on my experience and skills. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss the training program with you and to provide further information on my candidacy. I can be reached anytime via my cell phone, [phone number], or by email at [email address].

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you about this exciting opportunity.

Putting It All Together

Now, you should know all you need to about the amazing letter of interest! Remember, each sample letter of interest above is meant to serve as inspiration. When you create yours, remember to keep it targeted, short, and professional. That way, you increase your odds of getting a response.

And as always,

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Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.

His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.

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Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

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Letter of Interest (Template & Samples)

In today’s job market, making a distinctive impression on your dream company can be a unique challenge, particularly when there are no open positions advertised. This is where the strategic use of a Letter of Interest comes into play. Distinct from a cover letter, a Letter of Interest is a proactive document you send to potential employers to introduce yourself and express your eagerness to work with them in future roles that match your skills and abilities. It’s an opportunity to highlight how your unique skills can contribute to the company’s success, thereby setting you apart in a sea of potential candidates. Through a well-crafted Letter of Interest, you can uncover hidden job opportunities and position yourself as a valuable asset, even before a job is officially listed.

Letter of Interest Templates & Examples

Letter of Continued Interest Example

A Letter of Continued Interest is a formal communication sent to an institution or organization, like a university or company, expressing ongoing enthusiasm and commitment for a position or place that one has previously applied for. It serves as an update to the initial application, showcasing new achievements, reaffirming interest, and highlighting why the applicant remains a strong candidate. The template provided in the previous response is designed to guide users through crafting such a letter effectively. By offering a structured format with sample data in fillable brackets, it simplifies the process of personalizing the letter for various scenarios, whether for academic admissions, job applications, or other opportunities. This adaptable approach ensures that users can convey their renewed interest and qualifications in a clear and professional manner.

Letter of Interest Example

A Letter of Interest, also known as a letter of inquiry or prospecting letter, is a document sent to a company to express interest in potential job opportunities that may arise, even if there's no current vacancy advertised. It allows a candidate to introduce themselves, highlight their qualifications, and express a desire to work for the company. The provided Letter of Interest template simplifies this process by offering a structured and detailed format, inclusive of all relevant elements like contact information, a formal greeting, introduction, body, and closing remarks. This structure, along with the sample data in brackets, makes it easy for users to customize the letter to suit their specific needs, ensuring they present a professional and engaging introduction to potential employers.

Letter of Interest for a Job

A Letter of Interest for a Job is a written expression used by job seekers to communicate their enthusiasm and qualifications for a position that may not be advertised or currently open. It serves as a proactive approach to introduce oneself to a potential employer, highlighting relevant skills and experiences while expressing interest in future opportunities. The template provided above is designed to facilitate the process of crafting such a letter. It includes all necessary elements, such as contact information, a formal greeting, a body that outlines the candidate's interest and qualifications, and a courteous closing. By offering sample data in brackets, the template makes it easy for users to personalize their letter to suit various job situations, ensuring they present a professional and targeted expression of interest to potential employers.

Letter of Interest Template

A Letter of Interest is a document sent to potential employers or organizations expressing a candidate's desire to work with them, highlighting their relevant skills and experiences. It serves as a proactive approach for job seekers to show interest in a company or a specific position, even when a job is not advertised. The provided Letter of Interest template is designed to be adaptable for various situations, with placeholders for personal and recipient details, and a structured format for introducing oneself, outlining relevant skills and experiences, and expressing specific interest in the role and the organization. This versatility makes it easy for users to tailor their letter to fit different opportunities, ensuring they can convey their enthusiasm and qualifications effectively for each unique application.

Letter of Continued Interest Law School

A Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) for law school is a formal communication sent to a law school's admissions committee, usually after an applicant has been waitlisted or deferred, but before a final decision has been made. This letter is an opportunity for the applicant to reaffirm their strong interest in the school, update the committee on any new achievements or experiences since the initial application, and underscore why they believe they are a great fit for the program. The LOCI template provided in the previous response is designed to guide applicants in crafting an effective and personalized letter. It includes all necessary elements like a formal introduction, updates on recent achievements, specific reasons for interest in the law school, and a polite conclusion. The template, filled with sample data and structured in a clear format, simplifies the process for applicants, ensuring they can convey their continued enthusiasm and suitability for the law school in a professional and organized manner.

Letter of Interest for Teaching Position

A Letter of Interest for a Teaching Position is a document written by an individual applying for a teaching role. It highlights their qualifications, experience, and enthusiasm for the position, and is tailored to the specific requirements and values of the school or educational institution they are applying to. The provided template offers a structured, clear format for crafting such a letter, allowing users to insert their personal and professional information into predefined sections easily. This ensures that important aspects like educational background, teaching experience, and specific achievements are effectively communicated. The use of sample data in brackets guides users on how to customize the letter to their circumstances, making it a versatile and user-friendly guide for a wide range of teaching job applications.

Letter of Interest Medical School

A Letter of Interest for Medical School is a written communication sent by an applicant to a medical school to express their keen interest in the program and to highlight their qualifications and experiences that make them a suitable candidate. The provided template is designed to guide users through crafting an effective letter that covers all necessary elements, from personal introduction and expression of interest in a specific medical school, to outlining their academic and extracurricular achievements. It's structured to showcase the user's unique qualifications and passion for medicine, while also being adaptable to various individual profiles, enhancing the user's chances of making a strong impression on the admissions committee.

Residency Letter of Interest

A Residency Letter of Interest is a formal document written by medical graduates or doctors to express their keen interest in a specific residency program at a hospital or medical institution. It's an opportunity for applicants to showcase their qualifications, experiences, and the specific reasons why they are drawn to that particular program. The template provided earlier serves as a detailed guide for crafting such a letter. It includes placeholders for personal information, qualifications, experiences, and specific interests related to the residency program, helping the user to present their credentials and enthusiasm in a clear and organized manner. This structure ensures that all relevant information is conveyed effectively, making it easier for the applicant to tailor the letter to their unique profile and the specific residency program they're targeting.

What is a Letter of Interest?

A Letter of Interest, often referred to as a prospecting letter , is a strategic tool used in job searching. Unlike a cover letter that accompanies a job application for a specific position, a Letter of Interest is sent independently. Its purpose is to express your interest in working for a company that you admire, even if they have not advertised any current job openings.

This letter serves as a proactive approach to showcase your skills, experience, and enthusiasm to a potential employer. It’s an opportunity to introduce yourself, outline your professional achievements, and explain why you would be a valuable asset to their organization. Essentially, it’s about making a strong case for why you and the company would be a great match , thereby encouraging them to consider you for future opportunities.

An effective Letter of Interest can help you network with key individuals in your field, uncover hidden job opportunities, and pave the way for future employment discussions. It’s a chance to stand out and get noticed in a competitive job market by taking the initiative to reach out directly to employers.

What to Include in Your Letter of Interest

Crafting a Letter of Interest involves more than just expressing your desire to work for a company. It’s about strategically presenting yourself as a valuable potential addition to their team. Here’s what you should include to make your letter both informative and impactful:

• Your Name and Contact Information : Start with the basics. Include your full name, address, phone number, and email address. This makes it easy for the employer to reach out to you.
• Skills to Highlight : Identify key skills that align with the company’s values or needs. Focus on those that make you uniquely suited for potential roles within the company. Be specific – generic statements are less impactful.
• Personal Qualities to Emphasize : Beyond skills, your personal qualities can set you apart. Highlight attributes like leadership, creativity, or teamwork that would be an asset to the company culture.
• Request for an Informational Interview : Suggest an informational interview as a way to learn more about the company and demonstrate your initiative. This is a non-aggressive way of showing interest and can open doors to future opportunities.
• Expression of Gratitude : Always end your letter with a thank you. Acknowledging the recipient’s time and consideration shows professionalism and respect.
• Attachment of Your Resume : Include your resume as an attachment. This provides a comprehensive view of your professional background and achievements, complementing the information in your letter.

Tip : Use the informational interview as a platform to exhibit your qualities and learn about the company. If there’s no immediate response, don’t hesitate to follow up. A polite call or email can keep you on the company’s radar and demonstrate your continued interest. Staying proactive in your approach shows dedication and eagerness, qualities that are highly valued in any professional setting.

Letter of Interest Format

{your name}

{your address}

{your email address}

{your phone number}

{your website if you have one}

{recipient name}

{target company name}

{recipient address}

Dear {recipient}:

{Use this space to tell the recipient how you learned about the company and to inquire about a position in the department you wish to work in.}

{Use this space to talk about your skills and demonstrate how you have used those skills. Focus on skills the company values! Show how your personal qualities match the company ethos.}

{Use this space to inform your reader you have attached a resume. Request an informational interview.}

{your signature}

Sample Letter of Interest

Elizabeth Vanderlyn, M.A.

2004 South Admiral Place

Elysium, MD 87226

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (876) 324-6598

Blog: gentledharma.net

June 30, 2032

Ms. April Dunst

Elysium University Press

4006 West 6th Street

Dear Ms. Dunst:

I recently graduated with a degree in English from Elysium University. I have long valued the books and educational materials published by the Elysium University Press. I am writing to inquire whether you have any entry-level research or writing positions available.

I have employed my skills with the Elysium University’s student newspaper for the last four years, including two years as an editor. My research skills are impeccable, and I am frequently called upon to fact-check and perform in-depth research for long-term projects.

I am known for my attention to detail and strong editing skills. I strive for clear, concise, and informative work that interests the student body. I have maintained a personal blog for the past six years, in which I cover topics of emotional wellness and mindfulness.

My resume is enclosed. I have also included my recent article regarding the updated health and wellness policy at Elysium University. I would appreciate an opportunity to discuss how my skills can help Elysium University Press meet the mission of providing quality books and educational materials for attentive readers.

Thank you for your time and your careful consideration. I look forward to speaking with you in the near future.

Elizabeth Vanderlyn

Letter of Interest Examples & Templates

A letter of interest is essentially a sales pitch for yourself. We have provided a basic format that only needs to be completed with your best skills and qualities. Put your best foot forward. The sample letter above demonstrates how to use this letter to encourage an employer to meet you. Feel free to use the format and find ideas in the sample letter. Introduce yourself with style!

Letter of Interest for Project

Letter of Interest for Promotion

Expression of Interest Letter

Things to Keep in Mind When Writing a Letter of Interest

Writing a compelling Letter of Interest requires a blend of research, self-assessment, and targeted communication. Here are key aspects to focus on:

• Conduct Thorough Research : Start by deeply researching the company. Go beyond the basics; understand their culture, values, and the attributes they seek in employees. This knowledge will allow you to tailor your letter to resonate with the company’s ethos. Pay particular attention to the company’s mission statement and primary goals. Reflect on how your skills and qualities align with these objectives.
• Understand and Address the Right Person : Personalize your letter by addressing it to a specific individual, such as the hiring manager or the head of the department you’re interested in. Avoid generic salutations like “To Whom It May Concern.” A personalized approach demonstrates that you’ve taken the time to understand the company’s structure and are serious about your interest.
• Inventory and Match Your Skills and Abilities : Make a comprehensive list of your skills and personal qualities. Then, critically analyze how each one aligns with the company’s needs and values. For each skill or quality, think of specific examples or experiences that demonstrate it. This approach helps in creating a letter that not only lists your attributes but also provides concrete evidence of your abilities.
• Demonstrate How You Can Contribute : It’s not just about what the company can offer you, but what you can offer the company. Explicitly state how your skills and experiences will be beneficial to them. Show understanding of their challenges or goals and how you can be a solution.
• Keep the Tone Professional Yet Approachable : While maintaining professionalism, ensure your letter is engaging and reflects your personality. This balance can help make your letter memorable.
• Be Concise and Focused : Avoid unnecessary details. Keep your letter succinct, ensuring every sentence adds value and reinforces your interest and suitability for the company.

A: While both letters are used for professional networking, a Letter of Interest is specifically targeted towards a particular company and expresses your interest in potential job opportunities. A networking letter, on the other hand, is more general in nature, aimed at seeking advice, information, or referrals in your field.

Absolutely. A Letter of Interest is not just for full-time job positions; it’s also an excellent way to express your interest in internship opportunities. It shows initiative and can make you stand out as a proactive candidate.

It’s generally not advisable to mention salary expectations in a Letter of Interest. The primary goal of this letter is to introduce yourself and express interest in future opportunities, not to engage in negotiations.

Yes, it’s appropriate and can even be advantageous. It shows your sustained interest in the company and resilience in pursuing opportunities.

If you can’t find a specific contact, it’s acceptable to address the letter to a relevant department head or use a general salutation like “Dear Hiring Team.” However, personalizing the letter as much as possible is always preferable.

a Letter of Interest is a proactive and strategic communication tool that serves as a bridge between your career aspirations and potential employment opportunities. It allows you to introduce yourself to companies you admire, highlight your unique skills and experiences, and demonstrate your enthusiasm for future opportunities. While crafting this letter, remember the importance of personalization, relevance, and clarity. An effectively written Letter of Interest not only showcases your professional competencies but also sets the stage for meaningful networking, uncovering hidden job prospects, and making a memorable impression in a competitive job market. As you end this guide, carry forward the insights and strategies discussed to create a Letter of Interest that opens new doors in your professional journey.

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How to Write a Letter of Interest (38 Samples)

Suppose you have your eye on a particular company. You have the skills and expertise to work in a position at the company; however, the only problem is that it is not hiring. Rather than waiting for the company to advertise an open position, which can take a long time, you can set yourself up to get the position using a letter of interest. This will give you an advantage as you are able to cut the line by applying in advance. However, to use it, you must first understand what it is and how to write it.

A letter of interest is a formal document to express your desire to work for a company, even if it has not advertised a specific job opening. It outlines your skills, experiences, and qualifications for a recruiter. The main aim is to introduce yourself and explain why you’re interested in working for the target company. It is also referred to as a letter of inquiry, prospecting letter, letter of intent, or statement of interest.

Templates and Examples

A letter of interest template is a fillable document that, after being filled out, serves the same purpose as a handwritten or typed LOI does. Below are free templates that can be edited as per your needs:

Letter of Interest Vs. Cover Letter

There are several apparent differences between a letter of interest and a cover letter. First, a letter of interest is an unsolicited document. In contrast, a cover letter is sent in response to an advertised job opening by the company and is therefore expected by the recruiter. The cover letter must be sent along with other application documents, such as your resume or CV, whereas a letter of interest can be sent as an independent document.

A cover letter is only used when applying for a specific position. It explains why you believe you’re the best candidate for the job advertised. On the other hand, the letter of interest is not tailored to any specific position within the company, as it mainly focuses on expressing interest in working for the organization. It can be written by anyone at any level, whereas a cover letter is usually written by individuals who have the experiences, skills, and qualifications required for the position.

LOI Template

Pre-Considerations

Before you can begin writing the letter, there are a few considerations you should make. The following pre-considerations will help ensure that you compose a compelling letter. They will also help ease the writing process:

Research the company

It would be best to start by researching the company using various means, such as visiting their website, reviewing their mission statement , social media, current press releases, or company news. Next, find out the company’s goals and values to help make your letter more relevant to the hiring manager. Finally, show how your core values tie into the reasons for your interest in working for the target company.

Find connections

Next, you should look for connections within the target company who can help you with an informational letter. This will help you learn more about the company and the position you may be interested in occupying. It will also help you tailor your letter to the target company, therefore ensuring that it stands out.

Learn your recipient’s name

Finally, learn the name of the recipient. Addressing the recipient by name is a clear sign that you have taken time to learn about the target company. You can find the name on the company website or even in your connections. You may address the recipient as ‘Dear Hiring Manager” if you are unsure or unable to find their name.

How to Write It

A well-written letter can lead to rewarding results, enabling the hiring manager to see your potential. Therefore, you must understand how to write a compelling letter. Each element plays a crucial role in ensuring that your interest is appropriately conveyed.

You can use the following guidelines when writing the letter:

The header should begin by outlining your full name and contact details, the date of writing, and the employer’s name and contact information. These details help ensure that it follows the appropriate business format. It also gives the letter a professional look.

Greeting 

The letter of interest should address the hiring manager by name and therefore avoid ineffective greetings like ‘ To whom it may concern or ‘Dear Sir or Madam.’ The hiring manager’s name can be obtained from the company’s website, LinkedIn, or Google. You can also call the company to politely request the hiring manager’s name. 

Introduction

You should then begin it with a brief introduction. The introduction provides the hiring manager with basic information about who you are and the letter’s purpose.

The following elements should be highlighted in your introductory paragraph:

Introduce yourself

Start the introduction by outlining who you are. You should also state where and how you heard about the company. The self-introduction should be straightforward.

Why are you writing

Next, outline your reason for writing it. Express enthusiasm about the possibility of working for the target company. You can relate the reason to the company’s goals, products, and policies, among other qualities that have attracted you to it.

Find a hook

The hiring manager is not expecting your letter; therefore, it is crucial to grab their attention to ensure that they get your message across. You can hook the hiring manager by outlining how much you know about the company and the value you can contribute. These details help ensure that your introduction makes an excellent first impression.

Body of the letter

The body outlines the skills and experiences that the company may find valuable. It would help clarify what area you’re interested in pursuing within the company.

These details can be broken down into the following elements:

Include recent skills you’ve developed

The body should outline the skills you have developed from recently held positions. These skills should be broken down into both hard and soft skills. Indicate these details in a list to make them more noticeable and impactful.

Write about your strengths

Showcase your strengths by outlining your qualifications and key accomplishments. Provide quantifiable data when outlining your achievements. You should also combine the data indicated with a compelling story to help strengthen your message.

Describe your employment background

Briefly describe your employment history to show you have experience. While describing your background, you can highlight how your experience positively impacted past companies or projects you worked on. It would be best to include any experiences that may be of value to the company.

Explain why this job is the right fit

You should explain why you are the right fit for the job by linking relevant skills and values to the company. The statements used should convey your confidence in yourself. Be specific when demonstrating how you may fit into the organization.

The letter’s conclusion should include a call to action that highlights your interest in further discussion about the company and the possibility of having an informational interview. You can also indicate that you are willing to send your CV or resume upon request by the hiring manager. Finally, it would be best to express gratitude for the hiring manager’s time and consideration.

Sign it off with an appropriate word or phrase, such as ‘Sincerely’ or ‘Kind Regards.’ Below, it indicates your signature. Finally, end the letter by indicating your full name.

When Should I Write It?

Several occasions may warrant the need to write a letter of interest. For instance, if you read about a company that you believe can be a good fit for your skill set, then you should write about it. You can also write it if you see or hear about a new business opening or expansion that you would be interested in working at.

You may also consider writing it if your contact informs you of a job opening that is yet to be advertised to the public or if you’re looking to specialize in a particular area. Finally, you should consider writing it if you find a company with an appealing work culture, location, mission statement, or values that you admire.

[Your name] [Phone Number] [Email]

[Hiring manager’s name] [Job title] [Company name] [Address]

Dear Mr. Ms. Mrs. [ Hiring manager’s Last Name],

My name is [indicate your name]. I am a [state your line of work]. I want to inquire about working for [name of the company] one of the fastest-growing companies in the country. For the last [period], I have been following your company’s growth. The thought of working for a company that [outlines information about the company] fills me with joy.

I have acquired [ indicate time] experience in [name of the industry]. During this time, I have honed my [outline skills and relate them to the company]. In addition, [outline achievement or specific experience]

I admire the [outline of what I admire about the company]. I believe that my willingness to subject my work to open criticism from my superiors and team members makes me the right fit for a job in your company. I would be glad to have a one-on-one discussion about the company and what I have to offer your organization. I hope to hear from you soon. Thank you for your time and consideration.

[Your signature]

[Your Name] 

Sample Letters

Presented below are some‌ sample letters of interest written for various pistons and industries. These letters are tailored to show a strong and personalized interest in specific roles and companies.

Sample Letter of Interest 1

Dear Ms. Emily Thompson,

I am writing to express my keen interest in joining SolarTech Innovations, particularly in the Renewable Energy Analyst role. Your company’s groundbreaking work in sustainable energy has always inspired me, and I believe my expertise in data analysis and environmental policy would greatly contribute to your team. I have three years of experience at Green Solutions Inc., where I developed my skills in environmental impact assessment and policy implementation, contributing significantly to our sustainability initiatives.

What excites me most about the opportunity at SolarTech Innovations is your commitment to reducing carbon footprints through innovative technologies. At Green Solutions Inc., I led a project that developed a new model for predicting the environmental impact of urban development, which aligns well with SolarTech’s goals. I am particularly interested in how I could bring this experience to your team, contributing to your ongoing efforts in sustainable urban planning.

I am eager to bring my analytical skills and environmental policy knowledge to SolarTech Innovations and collaborate with your talented team to further your impressive work in sustainable energy solutions. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my application with you and exploring opportunities within your esteemed company.

Jordan Smith

Sample Letter of Interest 2

Dear Dr. Alan Grant,

I recently came across your groundbreaking work in machine learning applications at Quantum Computing Corp and was immediately captivated. As a dedicated software engineer with a passion for artificial intelligence, I am very interested in the opportunity to contribute to your team, particularly in the role of AI Developer. With a background in computer science and substantial experience in machine learning algorithms, I am confident in my ability to add value to your innovative projects.

During my tenure at TechFront Solutions, I played a key role in developing an AI-based predictive analysis tool, which mirrors the challenges faced in your current projects at Quantum Computing Corp. My approach to algorithm optimization has always been centered around efficiency and scalability, aligning closely with your company’s methods.

I am enthusiastic about the prospect of joining Quantum Computing Corp and am keen to explore how my expertise in machine learning can contribute to your ongoing and future projects. I would be delighted to discuss how my experience and skills could align with the ambitious goals of your dynamic team.

Best regards,

Lisa Fernandez

Sample Letter of Interest 3

Hello Mr. Marcus Johnson,

I am reaching out to express my strong interest in the Marketing Strategist role at Creative Edge Advertising. Your company’s reputation for innovative marketing campaigns and client success is well-known, and I am excited about the prospect of being part of such a dynamic and forward-thinking team. At my previous job at MarketMovers Inc., I honed my skills in strategic planning and digital marketing, playing a pivotal role in several successful product launches.

At MarketMovers Inc., one of my key achievements was leading a campaign that successfully introduced a new health product into a competitive market, gaining significant market share within the first six months. This experience, I believe, aligns perfectly with the challenges and opportunities at Creative Edge Advertising. I am particularly interested in bringing my strategic insight and creative thinking to your team, contributing to your renowned client projects.

Joining Creative Edge Advertising would be a significant step in my career, and I am eager to contribute my marketing expertise to your esteemed company. I look forward to the possibility of further discussing how my background and skills can help achieve the ambitious goals of your marketing team.

Warm regards,

Rebecca Turner

Absolutely, here are two more letters of interest with fictitious details:

Sample Letter of Interest 4

Dear Ms. Rachel Lee,

I am writing with great enthusiasm about the Project Manager position at Bright Innovations. Your firm’s cutting-edge approach in the tech industry is highly inspiring, and I am confident that my experience and skills in project coordination and team leadership would be an excellent fit. With over five years of experience at TechPioneers Ltd., I have mastered the intricacies of project lifecycle management and cross-functional team leadership, significantly enhancing project efficiency and team collaboration.

What particularly excites me about Bright Innovations is your dedication to fostering a culture of innovation and continuous learning. At TechPioneers Ltd., I led a cross-departmental project that integrated agile methodologies into our standard operating procedures , a change that led to a 30% increase in project delivery efficiency. I am eager to bring this experience and mindset to Bright Innovations, contributing to your renowned project management practices.

I am looking forward to the possibility of contributing to Bright Innovations’ growth and success. I am keen on discussing how my background in project management and passion for technology innovation can align with the exciting projects at your company.

Kind regards,

David Wilson

Sample Letter of Interest 5

Dear Mr. Henry Ford,

As an avid follower of the advancements in renewable energy, I was thrilled to learn about the opening for an Environmental Engineer at EcoSolutions. Your company’s commitment to sustainable environmental practices and innovative waste management solutions aligns perfectly with my professional aspirations and expertise. In my recent role at GreenTech Industries, I specialized in developing sustainable waste management systems and have led initiatives that reduced industrial waste by 40% over two years.

I am particularly impressed by EcoSolutions’ recent project on converting industrial waste into renewable energy. In a similar capacity at GreenTech Industries, I was part of a team that developed a groundbreaking process for converting agricultural waste into biofuel, an initiative that received the Green Tech Award in 2022. My experience in sustainable engineering and waste-to-energy conversion would be highly beneficial in advancing EcoSolutions’ ambitious projects in this field.

I am excited about the prospect of joining EcoSolutions and contributing my knowledge in environmental engineering to help achieve your company’s vision for a more sustainable future. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my expertise in waste management and renewable energy technologies can contribute to your innovative projects.

Best wishes,

Samantha Green

The sample letters are structured in a way that makes them useful as guides for writing a similar letter. They are crafted with a professional tone, which is essential in making a positive impression, and the language used is simple yet engaging, ensuring clarity and accessibility. What makes these letters particularly effective is their tailored content; each letter is specifically written for a particular company and role, demonstrating the writer’s thorough research and genuine interest. This personalization is key in making a letter stand out.

In terms of specific information, the letters excel in:

• Highlighting Relevant Skills and Experience: The writers mention specific roles and skills pertinent to the job and provide examples of past achievements relevant to the potential new role.
• Alignment with Company Values and Goals: The writers showcase an understanding of the company’s values and goals, aligning their interests and experiences with these aspects.

Furthermore, each letter concludes with a clear expression of the writer’s intent to join the company and a call to action, such as inviting further discussion or an interview. This direct approach is crucial in encouraging a potential employer to engage with the applicant. Overall, these letters serve as good samples, combining professional language, personalization, relevant skill and experience highlights, alignment with company values, and a clear call to action – all vital elements of an impactful job application letter .

Do’s and Don’ts

When writing a letter of interest, there are several do’s and don’ts that you should keep in mind. Knowing and understanding them will help you compose a more compelling letter.

The do’s and don’ts include:

Note down a list of considerations that you should make when writing it:

Include versatile skills

It should contain a versatile set of your skills, experiences, and qualifications because, unlike a cover letter, you are not responding to a specific job description. Instead, it provides an overview of what your abilities are. Indicating versatile skills also helps set you apart from other peers in the industry.

Be specific

It should contain specific experiences that help showcase your ability to use your skills. They help show what you have to offer. The hiring manager can also form a picture of how you would fit into the company.

Personalize it

Personalize the letter by directly addressing the individual responsible for receiving the letter in the organization. It enables you to establish a personal connection with the recipient. It also shows that you put effort into writing.

Keep it concise

Your letter should be concise so as not to deter the recipient. It also helps you stay focused on key attributes that the company may value. It should have at least three paragraphs.

There are a few mistakes that can render your letter ineffective. They include the following:

Generic letter

Avoid writing a generic one. The recruiter may think that you’re not taking the opportunity seriously. This can result in the letter being discarded.

Overly confident

Do not indicate statements that demonstrate overconfidence. They can sound demanding and unprofessional. You should instead show your confidence in your skills and abilities with a statement  such as, ‘I believe that my skills and experiences make me a good fit for your company.’

Use of humor to stand out

It is a formal document that should not contain humor. Though humor can help you stand out, it can make the letter seem unprofessional. It may also be offensive if thought is not put into the expression indicated.

No proofreading

You must proofread it upon completion. It helps you identify both grammatical and typographical errors. It also ensures that your letter is polished.

No follow up

If a significant period has passed without a response, you should be reaching out to the recipient. It will help show that you are proactive. For example, you can make a phone call to the company or write a follow-up letter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mention why you are interested, how you learned about the company, and how their new and innovative changes interest you.  Simply mention, “I came across your company, and upon researching, I noticed it matches my values. I would love to discuss this further in an informational interview.”

Mention your name, your education, your skills, and your employment background.

Minimally why you wrote the letter, who you are, your skills, your education, employment, how your skills assisted the company, and your interest in an informational interview or further discussing employment.

Always strongly. Mention you’d like to discuss how you can help the company, ask for an informational interview, and include links to your site and work.

While writing a letter of interest, make sure to add the following essential information: 1. Date 2. The Greeting, mentioning the person’s name if possible 3. Why you’re writing this (include maybe you found out about the company through an article or through reading their mission statement) 4. Tell them who you are and your skills, education, and employment, and why it could benefit their company 5. Ask for an informational interview or a chance to discuss this further 6. Closing 7. Your links to your LinkedIn, email, and pertinent websites

Final Thoughts

The letter of interest is a document that conveys your desire to work for a company even though it has not advertised an open job position. It aims to compel the hiring manager or employer that the company requires your skill set. Though some elements are similar to those of a cover letter, there are apparent differences, such as that a cover letter is written in response to a job posting, whereas the letter of interest is unsolicited. When writing this letter, ensure you introduce yourself, outline your skills and qualifications and explain why you are interested in the company.

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How To Write A Letter Of Interest + Effective Samples

September 14, 2021 by Hannah Morgan

What do you do when there’s a company you’d love to work for but they don’t have any openings available? 

You could wait until one is posted and then be one of over 250 candidates that apply. Or you could proactively reach out and pitch yourself. 

Pitching yourself may feel outside of your comfort zone, but I’m going to lay it all out here and teach you how to write a letter of interest that will get you noticed.  

Table of contents

What is a letter of interest, how to write a letter of interest, formatting your letter, samples and templates.

A letter of interest is written by a job seeker when they are interested in working for a company that does not appear to have any job opportunities listed. 

Rather than simply sending your resume into their applicant tracking system and hoping the company will search for someone with your qualifications, you can take initiative and email a letter of interest that will entice someone to consider hiring you today.

For example, let’s say you’ve heard great things about a company and really want to work there. After reviewing jobs listed on their website’s career page you don’t see any openings. What do you do? 

Instead of waiting for the right job to be posted, why not write a letter of interest? In your letter you would explain why you are interested in the company and why you think they should hire you (or at least call you for a conversation). 

By writing a letter of interest, also known as an interest letter or a prospecting letter, you bring attention to your qualifications, hoping that the person you send it to will be interested in learning more about you. 

Will a letter of interest work? It is my belief that good managers are always looking for their next great hire. This could be you. 

Does this sound bold? Risky? Out of your comfort zone? Then this is exactly why you should try this approach. Waiting around for a job to be posted may result in you missing out on an opportunity. 

Since you aren’t responding to a posted job opening, the person receiving your interest letter isn’t overwhelmed by managing hundreds of resumes, inquiries and interviews. 

Taking this bold move helps you get noticed. It’s also something most job seekers will never do which gives you an advantage. Taking this initiative shows your spunk and an increased level of interest in working for a company. Both of these are qualities hiring managers appreciate.

A letter of interest can be sent at any time , there does not need to be an opening or posted job opportunity.

It may sound similar to a cover letter and it does follow a similar layout and formula, however, there isn’t a posted job so you don’t know the exact requirements the decision maker is looking for. You’ll have to use your research to identify the skills you believe they would be most interested in. You can also include transferable skills you know are needed.

Here’s what you need to know about writing a letter of interest. 

There’s no need to wait for a job to be advertised. It’s possible that one of the companies you are interested in needs you right now, but hasn’t posted a job yet. 

The key to writing a strong and compelling letter of interest is to show the company how they will benefit from adding you to their team. This means you need to understand what the company needs and to do that you’ll need to conduct research. 

If you aren’t willing to do this type of digging, there are also many others who won’t do it either. Even fewer will take the time to write a letter of interest. That’s the benefit of writing one.  

This is what you’ll need to do in order to write a letter of interest.

Research The Company

I’m a big advocate of research. The more you know about a company, the more compelling your letter of interest is going to be. That’s why it’s worth your time and effort to learn as much as you can about the company. So here’s what to do. 

Go to the company’s website, LinkedIn page and run a general internet search to see what news and information is available about the company. Look for information such as:

• Has the company been in the news recently? 
• What are the company’s mission and values 
• Who are their top competitors?
• Are there any reviews from employees about working for this company?
• What are the challenges their industry faces right now? 
• What’s the company culture like? 
• Who makes the hiring decisions for the area you are interested in? 

Read Press Releases

What is happening at the company? Are they expanding, shrinking, or merging? Have they just released a new product or service? Are they letting go of office space? As you learn about what’s happening in the company, think about how your previous experience in any of those areas can benefit the company.  

Monitor Their Social Media 

By checking out their social media channels you may learn about events they are hosting, news they are sharing about the company, or see videos and/or photos of employees. This may also give you a feel for the company’s culture and values. 

Track Competitors’ Activities

When you research the company’s competitors, you may notice trends. These trends are also likely to happen within the company you are targeting. Knowing about the competition helps you predict what may be coming next or what changes need to be made. 

Talk To Employees (Current and Past) 

Before putting your energy into writing a letter of interest, make sure you want to work there. The best way to uncover this information is by speaking with current and former employees. Ask them what they like about working there and what they don’t like. 

As a last resort, you could look at the company’s reviews on Glassdoor. But that often doesn’t provide the same quality of information. 

In your conversations you may also learn about technology they use, goals for growth or plans for change. All of this could be useful when writing your letter of interest.

Address The Letter To The Right Decision Maker

The right decision maker is the person inside the company with the authority to hire you. That’s not Human Resources or a recruiter, unless you want to work in those departments. It could be the person who heads up the department you want to work in or it could be a senior officer in the company. Use LinkedIn or the company website to identify the name and title of the person you would report into. 

When writing your letter of interest, you must address it to a specific person so it reaches the right person and shows you’ve done your research.  

Finding the name of the right person is also important because you will probably email your letter of interest. 

Write A Great Subject Line 

Sending your letter of interest as an email is the fastest and most efficient way to deliver it. When sending any email, it’s critical to use a subject line that gets the manager’s attention. Imagine how many emails someone gets at work during the day – hundreds, if not thousands. It’s the subject line that will compel the reader to open your message. 

Be Concise And Professional

People are busy and don’t read every email. That’s why it’s important that your interest letter be short, professional and to the point. You want it to catch their attention, not necessarily answer every question they may have. Here are some reminders:

• Use formal business language.
• Write shorter paragraphs and consider using bullets instead of sentences. 
• Always double and triple check your work for spelling and grammatical errors.

Ask For A Conversation

At the end of your letter, you will ask the reader to accept your invitation for a phone call. Just to be clear, this call is an information gathering conversation, not a job interview. The purpose of your call is to learn more about the inner workings of the department, to ask about the skills and knowledge they value, and to ask what their future hiring plans are. 

The decision maker inside the company is also interested in learning more about your background and skills to assess whether there is a potential fit within his or her team.

Always Follow Up

In order for that conversation to happen, you must ask for one. You will also want to follow up at least a couple of times after you send the letter to see if they had a chance to read it and ask if they would be available for a brief conversation.

Don’t Include A Resume

Instead of attaching your resume, a better option is to include a link to your LinkedIn profile which provides a thorough overview of your experience and all your achievements. Since there isn’t a job available, it would be difficult for you to customize your resume to address the unique requirements of the job. 

If you attach a link to your LinkedIn profile, you can see if the hiring manager or someone from the company has looked at your profile. 

Now that you understand some of the basics of the letter, let’s look at how to format your letter of interest.

Your letter of interest is considered business correspondence, it’s not a casual text message. You want to use appropriate formatting and wording to get the reader’s attention fast and show your professionalism.

While we call this a letter, it’s more likely that you would send it as an email. The content of your letter becomes the body of the email. 

Of course you could still mail your letter and due to the low volume of mail, your letter may have a greater chance of getting noticed than your email message. 

People are too busy to open attachments. Don’t include your letter of interest as an attachment to your email. Instead, include your letter in the body of your email. 

Use this format to address your letter of interest.

When Writing A Physical Letter

If you were actually to mail a letter, then use a formal business letter format. Here’s what the top of the letter would look like:

Header (formatted like the header of your resume):

Your Name Your Address City, ST Zip Phone number Email  LinkedIn URL

Mr./Ms. First Name Last Name of recipient Job Title Company Name Company Mailing Address City, ST Zip

If you are emailing your letter, you do not need to include all this information. However, you will need the person’s email address.

You can use one of these free tools to look up an email address with a high degree of certainty. 

When Writing An Email 

When emailing the hiring decision maker, craft an interesting subject line. Something other than “I want to work for your company.”

Here are some examples of subject lines you can adapt:

• Subject: Do you need your next project manager to use Agile methodology?
• Subject: Is analyzing customer data something you need help with?
• Subject: Why wait to streamline your operations?

Then start your email using a formal introduction:  

Dear Mr./Ms Last Name:

Opening Paragraph – Hook Them

In your first paragraph, you have seconds to capture the reader’s attention. There are several ways to do this. You could:

• Include the reason you are interested in the company and want to work there
• Mention a fact about the company and why that’s important to you
• Highlight an accomplishment you know would benefit them

If you choose to explain why you are interested in working for the company, make it specific. You could mention that you’ve seen news about their growth, that they won an award for being a desirable place to work, you are a fan of their product or service, or you have friends who love working there.  

Another option is to align your personal interests or values with those of the company you are writing. Mission-based companies appreciate people whose values align with their own. So if you have a passion for social justice, rescuing animals or something that aligns with the company, be sure to mention that. 

The third option is to address how you will benefit the company. List one of your accomplishments in one of these areas that aligns with what the company may need:

• Save or make more money
• Expand the business
• Increase the customer base
• Solve a problem
• Improve processes, systems or operations (or the way things are being done)
• Respond to a problem in the community
• Capitalize on, or respond to, a trend

Next, since there isn’t a job available, you want to let the reader know what roles you are best suited for. You need to provide some area of focus so they can initially categorize you. Don’t expect the reader to be a career match-maker. 

Qualifications Paragraph

Once you entice the reader by explaining why you are interested in their company, your next paragraph explains how your experience, education and skills will make you a strong potential match, help fill gaps or in some other way benefit the company. This paragraph can be a bulleted list or short sentences. 

Since this is a short letter, you only have time to mention qualifications that are directly relevant and important to the company. 

Use accomplishments that spell out what you did and the quantifiable outcomes. For example:

• By analyzing customer data, improved ROI by 25%
• Reduced collection period from 65 days to 34 days
• Developed new industry relationships and closed 110% of sales quota

Remember, your ultimate goal is to convince the reader to agree to a conversation with you, or perhaps even pick up the phone and call you. 

Closing Paragraph

In this final paragraph, you want to let the reader know what to do or what will happen next. If you are determined to get a response, then the best course of action is to state that you will be following up with them. But always include your contact information at the bottom of your email, just in case.  

Starting from scratch can be difficult, so the letter of interest samples below will give you some ideas on how to structure your own letter. 

Dear Mr. Jones:

I read an article recently in Marketing Magazine Online about Acme’s innovative approach to digital marketing. You were quoted as saying “We are dedicated to building relationships with our customers, not just taking their money.” This is so refreshing to hear and compelled me to reach out. 

I am a Content Planner and Analyst and have over five years of experience analyzing the ROI of our digital marketing efforts. Through my analysis, we were able to improve ROI by 25%, a notable achievement in this area. A key component of my analysis involved looking at the long-term and recurring engagements of customers. My deep understanding in this area is something I think you and Acme would be interested in as it’s the core of building relationships.

If you think my expertise in analyzing engagement, customer relationship building and ROI would be a benefit to Acme, I’d be open to having a conversation. My contact information is below, however, I’ll follow up next week to see if there’s interest. 

Sally McIntosh 585.555.1212 [email protected] https://www.linkedin.com/in/sallymcintosh/

Dear Ms. Smith:

My former co-worker, Sam Peterson, suggested that I write to you to discuss your accounting department needs and priorities. He speaks highly of ABC Company and your recent industry recognition in Accounting Today, backs this up. 

In my most recent role as junior accountant, I oversaw the month-end reporting, accounts payable team and receivables team. I have worked within several different SAP systems and regularly use advanced Excel functionality. Many of the procedural changes I helped implement resulted in a reduced collection period from 65 days to 34 days and overall improved the ease of use and access to reporting.

I’d welcome the opportunity to talk with you about your accounting department needs and will follow up next week to see if you have time for a brief call. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely, 

James Duncan (585) 555-1212 [email protected] https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesduncancpa/

Dear Ms. Bowers:

I’ve been using XYZ’s software since it launched in 2010. As an avid user, I can think of nothing better than to be on the inside of a company I so strongly believe in. I’ve scoured your site and follow your company on social media in hopes of finding an opening in data analysis. Since I haven’t seen anything recently, I wanted to reach out and introduce myself.

As a data analyst with BB Bank, I’ve been focused on building their customer dashboard and translating the millions of data points into information that is easy to monitor. I’ve used tools like R, SQL and Tableau to manage and present data.  I also worked with the project team that launched our new online banking app to ensure the data remained secure.  

I’d love to discuss XYZ’s data analysis needs and how I may be able to help. Would you be open to meeting with me at your convenience? I’ll follow up next week to see if there’s time in your schedule. Thank you in advance.  

Marshall Bennett (585) 555-1212 [email protected] https://www.linkedin.com/in/mbennett/

This is technically something called an employment proposal, which is very similar to a letter of interest. However, here you are pitching yourself for a role inside a company where there aren’t any openings. It may be a role they do not have yet, but based on your research, you think they need. The purpose of this employment proposal is to supply justification for the role, based on your research, and provide clear expectations of what you will do. 

Here’s an example of an employment proposal written for a customer relations advocate.  

Dear Dr. Jones:

RATIONALE:   Increase your profits by improving the rate of customers who keep their appointments by having a staff person who will primarily serve the following functions:

• Create a customer information database and maintain updated records;
• Contact customers prior to scheduled appointments;
• Keep customers informed of special sales and events and keep an up-to-date file on each customer and
• Serve as a customer advocate by inviting feedback about ways to improve and/or expand services.

WHO:   I am a self-starter who recently completed a certificate program in clerical administration at XYZ School. I offer strong organizational skills, marketing and customer service experience with a highly cooperative and upbeat attitude.

HOW:  I am available 20-30 hours per week, afternoons or evenings, depending on the needs of your business. To perform these duties I’ll require access to your data-entry system and if you need me to be onsite, a designated space and phone.  

CONDITIONS:   I will provide these services for $20.00 an hour for the first three months. If after this period of time you find my work to be as profitable as expected, I will continue as a regular employee for $22.00 an hour.

Thank you in advance for your time and consideration. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss this proposal. I will contact you again early next week to schedule an appointment at your convenience.  

Jane Plain 555-222-1212 [email protected] https://www.linkedin.com/in/janeplain/

Writing a letter of interest is a way to proactively pursue or create opportunities that are not publicly posted. While it takes effort to craft an enticing letter, by doing so, you demonstrate your interest.

There will be those job seekers who merely post their resume and hope for a response, but that’s not you. You’re determined and a go-getter.

What do you have to lose?

Hannah Morgan speaks and writes about job search and career strategies. She founded CareerSherpa.net to educate professionals on how to maneuver through today’s job search process. Hannah was nominated as a LinkedIn Top Voice in Job Search and Careers and is a regular contributor to US News & World Report. She has been quoted by media outlets, including  Forbes, USA Today, Money Magazine, Huffington Post, as well as many other publications. She is also author of The Infographic Resume and co-author of Social Networking for Business Success .

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