How to Write a Proper Letter of Intent for a Job

Your letter of intent should convey to the employer the reasons why you are the perfect match for the job.

A cover letter, or the letter of intent you include with your resume when applying for a job, forms the first impression your potential employer will have of you. Therefore, it is important to write a proper letter of intent in the correct format. While it is tempting to simply summarize the qualities and achievements you highlight on your resume in the letter, a truly impressive cover letter will focus more on the job, and what makes you the ideal candidate.

Instructions

1. Open a blank document and create a header at the top of the page, centered. Type your name, phone number, address and a professional email address.

2. Double space and left-justify the text. Type the date on which you are sending the letter and double space again. Type the name of the recipient, the company, and the company's contact information.

3. Double space and open with a formal salutation that addresses the recipient by name, such as "Dear Mrs. Reid." Type the first paragraph, which should be two to three sentences. Explain who you are, which position you are applying for, and (if applicable) a personal reference you have for the job.

4. Type the middle paragraph, also known as "the argument" according to Purdue's Online Writing Lab. The argument should convince the recipient that you are the most qualified person for the position by making direct correlations between your skills and previous experience and the company's specific demands for the worker who takes the job. Use formal but positive language; convey your enthusiasm for the job through your word choice.

5. Type the closing paragraph, beginning with a sentence that explains why you are a match for the employee they seek. Indicate the next step in the process, be it how you can be contacted for an interview or how you will be contacting the company to follow up, and thank the recipient for his time and consideration.

Tips & Warnings

• Your letter of intent should be single spaced, with a double space between paragraphs. Sign your name with black ink in between the complementary close ("Sincerely") and your typed name.

References

• Purdue Online Writing Lab: What is a Cover Letter?

Resources

• Virginia Tech: Cover Letters