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How to Write a Contact Letter

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If you are interested in working for a company but they did not advertise any position, you can still contact them. A contact letter is similar to a cover letter, which is usually sent out with a resume. If no one has advertised the job, you may need to send the letter to the manager of a specific department, such as a personnel or human resources manager. Your contact letter should demonstrate how your skills fulfill the requirements of the position for which you are applying.

Type your name and address at the top right of the page. Divide each set of information into lines. For example, use a line for your name, one for your address and one for the postal zip code and town.

Leave a space and include the name of the person to whom you are addressing the letter. Write their position on the next line, followed by the name and address of the company.

Start the letter with "Dear" if you know the name of the person to whom you are referring. Otherwise, begin with "To whom it may concern."

State why you are writing in the first paragraph. Use a brief sentence such as, "I would like to be considered for the position of Marketing Manager."

Describe your career and academic history in the second paragraph. In the third paragraph, name positions relevant to the job for which you are applying. Leave a space, and write how your skills will be useful to the company. Research into the company's standard can disclose what profile they might prefer.

Close the letter indicating that you are available for an interview, and mention specific dates you are not available. Conclude with an enclosure such as "Sincerely," and sign the letter.

Tip

Try to find a name to whom you should address the letter. Keep the letter no more than one page long. Carry out some research about the company you are interested in. Use "Ms." instead of "Mrs." if you are not sure about the marital status of a female recipient. Proofread your contact letter. Do not write your address if you are sending an email.

Resources
Tips
  • Try to find a name to whom you should address the letter.
  • Keep the letter no more than one page long.
  • Carry out some research about the company you are interested in.
  • Use "Ms." instead of "Mrs." if you are not sure about the marital status of a female recipient.
  • Proofread your contact letter.
  • Do not write your address if you are sending an email.
Writer

Ngalula Kabutakapua started writing in 2007 for the website Rockshock while working as a press officer for Ribes, writing articles for papers in Rome. She writes for "Fumo di China," "Guardian Cardiff" and "La voce degli Italiani." Kabutakapua holds a Bachelor of Arts in literature from University of Rome and a Master of Arts in international journalism from Cardiff University.

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