How To Write a Winning Continued Interest Letter: Your Ultimate Guide
Crafting a compelling “continued interest” letter is crucial when you’re aiming to secure a spot at your dream school or job. This isn’t just a formality; it’s a powerful opportunity to reiterate your enthusiasm, update your application, and subtly remind the recipient of your candidacy. This guide will walk you through every step, ensuring your letter stands out and significantly boosts your chances of success.
Understanding the Purpose of a Continued Interest Letter
Before you even begin writing, understanding the “why” is paramount. A continued interest letter serves several key purposes:
- Reiterating Interest: It explicitly states you are still highly interested in the opportunity.
- Providing Updates: It allows you to share any new accomplishments, experiences, or developments since your initial application.
- Reinforcing Qualifications: It subtly reminds the recipient of your qualifications and why you are a good fit.
- Demonstrating Persistence: It showcases your dedication and proactive approach.
When to Send a Continued Interest Letter
Timing is everything. Sending your letter at the right moment can significantly increase its impact. Generally, you should send a continued interest letter in these scenarios:
- After an Interview: This is a common and appropriate time to send a thank-you note and reiterate your interest.
- Following a Silence Period: If you haven’t heard back from the institution/employer within the expected timeframe, a letter can be appropriate. Research the typical decision timeline.
- After a Rejection (or Waitlist): This is a critical opportunity to express your continued interest and provide an update.
- When You Have New Information: If you’ve gained a new skill, received an award, or completed a project relevant to the opportunity.
The Importance of Researching the Deadline and Recipient
Always research the specific guidelines and deadlines for the position or school. Some institutions provide explicit instructions regarding follow-up communication. Also, identify the individual you should address the letter to. If the original contact person is no longer available, research who is now responsible for the decision-making process. Addressing the letter to the correct person shows diligence and respect.
Crafting a Compelling Subject Line for Your Letter
Your subject line needs to grab attention immediately. It should be clear, concise, and professional. Here are some examples:
- “Following Up: [Your Name] - [Position/Program Name]”
- “Continued Interest: [Your Name] - Application for [Position/Program Name]”
- “Update on Application: [Your Name] - [Position/Program Name]”
- “Expressing Continued Interest - [Your Name]”
Keep it brief and relevant. Avoid generic subject lines that might get lost in a crowded inbox.
The Essential Components of a Strong Continued Interest Letter
Now, let’s break down the structure and content of your letter:
Opening with a Strong Statement of Interest
Start by clearly and enthusiastically restating your interest. Refer to the specific position or program.
- Example: “I am writing to reiterate my strong interest in the [Position/Program Name] at [Institution/Company]. I was very excited to learn more about the opportunity during my interview on [Date of Interview].”
Highlighting Recent Accomplishments and Updates
This is where you showcase your growth and demonstrate why you are an even stronger candidate than before. Be specific and provide concrete examples.
- Example: “Since my interview, I have completed [Project Name], where I [Specific Accomplishment]. This experience has further developed my skills in [Relevant Skill 1] and [Relevant Skill 2], which I believe are directly applicable to the responsibilities of [Position/Program Name].”
- Quantify your achievements whenever possible. Use numbers to showcase the impact of your work. For example, “I increased sales by 15% in Q2.”
Reaffirming Your Qualifications and Fit
Briefly reiterate why you are a good fit for the role or program. Connect your skills and experiences to the specific requirements.
- Example: “My background in [Relevant Field] and my experience with [Relevant Task] align perfectly with the requirements of this role. I am confident that I can quickly contribute to [Company/Institution’s] goals.”
Expressing Gratitude and Closing with Confidence
End your letter with a sincere expression of gratitude and a confident closing.
- Example: “Thank you for your time and consideration. I am very enthusiastic about the prospect of joining [Company/Institution] and am confident I can make a significant contribution. I look forward to hearing from you soon.”
Dos and Don’ts of Writing a Continued Interest Letter
Do:
- Proofread meticulously. Errors can undermine your credibility.
- Tailor your letter to each specific opportunity. Generic letters are ineffective.
- Be professional and enthusiastic.
- Keep it concise and focused. Aim for one page.
- Use a professional tone.
- Follow the specific instructions provided by the institution/company.
Don’t:
- Repeat information verbatim from your application.
- Be overly aggressive or demanding.
- Send multiple letters unnecessarily. One is usually sufficient.
- Use slang or informal language.
- Write a letter that is too long.
Formatting Your Letter for Maximum Impact
Proper formatting ensures your letter is easy to read and professional in appearance.
- Use a standard business letter format. Include your contact information, the recipient’s information, the date, a salutation, the body of the letter, a closing, and your signature.
- Choose a professional font and size. Times New Roman or Arial, size 11 or 12 are generally recommended.
- Use clear and concise paragraphs.
- Proofread carefully for any errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
Example Continued Interest Letter Template
Here’s a basic template you can adapt:
[Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Recipient’s Name] [Recipient’s Title] [Company/Institution Name] [Company/Institution Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
[Opening paragraph - Restate your interest and reference the interview or original application.]
[Body paragraph 1 - Highlight new accomplishments and updates.]
[Body paragraph 2 - Reiterate your qualifications and fit.]
[Closing paragraph - Express gratitude and confidence.]
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Enhancing Your Chances: Beyond the Letter
While a well-written letter is crucial, consider these additional strategies:
- Network: If possible, reach out to people you know within the company or institution.
- Prepare for Follow-Up: Be ready to answer any questions the recipient might have.
- Research the Institution/Company Further: Demonstrate your continued interest by staying informed about their activities and achievements.
Frequently Asked Questions About Continued Interest Letters
What if I don’t have any new updates?
Even without significant updates, you can still send a letter. Focus on reiterating your interest and emphasizing your existing qualifications. You can also briefly mention your ongoing efforts to stay informed about the company/institution.
Should I send a thank-you note after a rejection?
In most cases, it’s not necessary to send a thank-you note after a rejection. However, if the rejection was a close call or you had a particularly positive interaction with the interviewer, you could send a brief note thanking them for their time and reiterating your interest in future opportunities.
How long should I wait to send a continued interest letter?
The timing depends on the situation. If you’ve been interviewed, send it within a week. If you haven’t heard back after the expected decision timeline, send it promptly. If you have a significant update, send it as soon as possible after the update.
Is it okay to send a letter if I’m on a waitlist?
Yes, a continued interest letter is extremely valuable when you’re on a waitlist. It demonstrates your continued enthusiasm and allows you to provide updates that could influence the admissions committee’s decision. Be sure to tailor your letter to the waitlist situation.
What if I don’t know the specific person to address the letter to?
If you are unsure of the specific person, you can address the letter to the hiring manager, admissions committee, or the relevant department head. Research the company or institution’s website for contact information or use LinkedIn to identify the appropriate contact person.
Conclusion: Securing Your Future with a Well-Crafted Letter
Writing a continued interest letter is a strategic move that can significantly enhance your chances of success. By understanding its purpose, following the guidelines outlined in this guide, and tailoring your letter to each specific opportunity, you can effectively reiterate your enthusiasm, update your application, and ultimately, secure your desired outcome. Remember to be professional, enthusiastic, and focused on demonstrating your value to the recipient. With careful planning and execution, your continued interest letter will be a powerful tool in your job search or application process.