Is A Letter of Interest And A Cover Letter The Same?
During a job application process, you need to submit some formal documents, letters inclusive. There are different types of letters which include the letter of interest and the cover letter. As a job candidate, you want to make sure that you are doing everything right in order to secure a job but keeping track of all the documents can become confusing. If you feel that way, do not feel disheartened. You are not alone. Many job seekers also find it difficult to tell if a letter of interest and a cover letter are the same or if they are different and so they are asking the question that is the title of this article. Why is it important to know the answer to that question? As a job seeker, the answer to that question can have a great impact on your job search. Our aim is to always make job-seeking efficient and fruitful and that is why we have painstakingly prepared this article to clear any confusion regarding the two documents.
Now to the main issue – is a letter of interest and a cover letter the same? No, they are not.
A cover letter is a letter or written communication like an email, that serves to introduce an accompanying document; especially, a letter that introduces a résumé or curriculum vitae. Recruiters or a company’s hiring manager usually request a cover letter together with your CV and any other required credentials. A cover letter basically reiterates what is in your CV, more like a summary and it is sent as per request. This means that a cover letter should be sent only when you are submitting your CV or resume for a job position that has been made public.
A letter of interest on the other hand, as is indicated by the name, is a direct, letter used to communicate your interest and declare your wish to work for a company. A letter of interest is usually sent by a job seeker to a company before they advertise any job openings. A letter of interest is an opportunity to tell a prospective employer why and where you desire to work with him or her, and why you think you will be a good hire. You can send a letter of interest whenever a company appeals to you or when you suspect that a company could be planning to grow their staff strength probably from activities posted on social media or on their website or through word of mouth. Sending a letter of interest is a way of securing a spot before a company starts recruiting or makes its job openings public. When you send in a letter of interest, you may not receive a reply immediately especially if the company is not hiring at the moment. A fair and considerate hiring manager will, however, contact candidates who have declared interest prior to the recruitment process.
We hope this article has helped you to differentiate between these two documents. To further show the differences between the two, we have added a step-by-step guide that will help you craft your own letter and also show the distinctive features of each letter. That way, you can know how to utilize each document in your job search.
How to Write a Letter of Interest
When writing a letter of interest, simply saying that you are contacting the company for opportunities because the work culture and values interest you, is not enough to convince the reader. Before you start writing, carry out research on the company. Your interest should be deeper than just liking the building the company is housed in, the name of the company, or indicating interest based on an assumption that they offer a generous salary. Gather all the intel you can about the company culture, values, and work style. It is also necessary to know the services the company offers and the skills and qualifications needed to work there. That will help you decide if you can fit in there and further prove to the company that hiring you will be a good decision. When you have all these details, you can start writing.
First, after your address and the company or organization’s address, do a brief introduction of yourself which should include your name and your current work position or education level. Next, state your reason for writing. You could include how you got to know the company and what piqued your interest. The next step is where all your research comes into play. Mention your work experience, ethics and values, your educational qualifications and certifications, and how they are going to make you a good hire. List your skills and achievements in your field. They are proof that you are knowledgeable about what you do. Conclude your letter by thanking the recipient for their time. Also, add that you are available for an interview and would love to be contacted if and when an opportunity opens up. Add your email address or contact number.
Here’s a sample:
25 Margaret Cartwright Avenue,
University of Nigeria, Nsukka Campus,
Enugu,
Nigeria
8th August 2021
The Editor,
Honestly Speaking Magazine,
4 Alden Close, Emene,
Enugu.
Dear Mr. Obi,
My name is Emmanuella Oreoluwa Akanbi, and I am a graduate of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka from the Department of Mass Communication and Journalism. The Honestly Speaking Magazine has been a permanent feature in my life as far as I can remember. I have been a reader since the first volume in 2006 and I must say that I am impressed by the improving quality each day. I have always been intrigued by its ability to feature relatable stories and top-notch visual content. It wouldn’t be far-fetched to say that I fell in love and studied Mass Communication because I wanted to be able to produce likely magazines. My interest led me on a tour of your website a few weeks after my final exams and I was happy to learn that the publishing house is expanding and growing with the commissioning of two branches within the last four years and the plans to open another one this year close to the University of Nigeria. I am hopeful that this growth will provide job opportunities for budding and entry-level graduates like me who are interested in the art of magazine content creation and article writing. I am seeking employment opportunities in the industry and would be willing and pleased to begin a fulfilling career journey in the new branch when it is opened.
As a student, I interned at The Guardian Newspaper for three months. I was also privileged to join the team that published my school’s yearly magazine three consecutive times, with my article on-campus living making it to the university’s website. I am highly skilled in the use of the complete Microsoft suite and other software used in magazine production. I have a strong work ethic and I work well even under pressure. People I have worked with have also commented on my ability to take initiative and be innovative. These qualities resonate with the core values of your company. Honestly Speaking and I am sure that I will be a good fit.
I appreciate your time and consideration. I am available for an informational interview at your convenience and look forward to discussing potential opportunities within the company with you. I can be reached at my email address at ella.akanbi@bing.com or my mobile number, 445589299. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Emmanuella Akanbi.
How to Write a Cover Letter
Like every letter, the cover letter should start off with a brief introduction. For the cover letter, you need to add the role you are applying for. You can also mention how you got to hear of the opening. Just like the letter of interest, you need to research the company you are applying to before writing your letter. Get to know their values and work culture and then explain how they align with yours. This is a way of showing that you are a good fit for the company. Mention your skills and laudable achievements. Finally, direct the reader to your attached CV or resume.
Here’s a Sample:
25 Margaret Cartwright Avenue,
University of Nigeria, Nsukka Campus,
Enugu,
Nigeria
8th August 2021
The Hiring Manager,
Honestly Speaking Magazine,
4 Alden Close, Emene,
Enugu.
Dear Mr. Obi,
My name is Emmanuella Oreoluwa Akanbi and I am writing to apply for the role of Editor in your publishing house advertised on your website and social media pages. After reviewing your job description, it is clear that you are looking for a candidate that is extremely familiar with the responsibilities associated with the role and can perform them confidently. Given these requirements, I am certain that I have the necessary skills to successfully do the job adeptly and perform above expectations.
I am a focused professional who has been consistently praised as proactive by my co-workers and management. Over the course of my career, I have developed a skill set directly relevant to the Editor role you are hiring for, including digital and language skills. Overall, in every aspect of my professional life, I have consistently demonstrated creative thinking, communication skills, and interpersonal skills and I invite you to review my detailed achievements in the attached CV.
After reviewing my CV, I hope you will agree that I am the type of competent candidate you are looking for. I look forward to elaborating on how my specific skills and abilities will benefit Honestly Speaking.
Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Emmanuella Oreoluwa Akanbi
