How To Write a Compelling Continued Letter of Interest
If you’re in the job market, you’ve likely encountered the “letter of interest.” But what about a continued letter of interest? This less-common but equally important document comes into play after your initial outreach. It’s a follow-up, a reminder, and a testament to your unwavering enthusiasm. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to craft a continued letter of interest that grabs attention and keeps you top-of-mind.
Why Send a Continued Letter of Interest? The Power of Persistence
You might be wondering, “Why bother sending another letter?” The answer lies in the competitive nature of today’s job market. Sending a continued letter of interest demonstrates your genuine interest in the opportunity and your commitment to the company. It shows initiative and a willingness to go the extra mile. It’s a subtle but powerful way to stand out.
Timing is Everything: When to Send Your Follow-Up
Knowing when to send your continued letter of interest is crucial. Don’t bombard a potential employer with emails. A good rule of thumb is to send your follow-up 2-3 weeks after your initial letter of interest, unless the hiring manager has provided a specific timeframe for their review process. If they’ve indicated a review timeline, adjust your follow-up accordingly, perhaps waiting a week after their stated deadline.
Structuring Your Continued Letter of Interest: A Step-by-Step Guide
Your continued letter of interest needs a clear and concise structure. Here’s a breakdown:
1. The Header: Professionalism is Key
Start with a professional header, just as you would with any formal correspondence. Include your name, contact information, the date, and the hiring manager’s name and title (if you know it) and the company name.
2. The Salutation: Personalize Your Greeting
Address the hiring manager by name. If you can’t find a specific contact, use a general greeting like “Dear Hiring Manager” is acceptable, but personalizing your message is always preferable.
3. Reiterate Your Interest: Remind Them Who You Are
Begin by reiterating your interest in the company and the role (or the possibility of a role). Briefly remind them of your initial contact, referencing the date you sent your first letter. This helps jog their memory.
4. Briefly Recap Your Qualifications: Highlight Your Value
In a concise paragraph, reiterate your key qualifications and how they align with the company’s needs. Don’t simply repeat what you said in your initial letter. Expand upon it. Mention any new skills, accomplishments, or experiences you’ve gained since your last communication. This shows you’re actively developing and growing.
5. Show Your Research: Demonstrate Your Understanding
Mention something specific about the company or the industry that has captured your attention. This demonstrates you’ve been keeping up with their activities and are genuinely interested. It could be a recent news article, a product launch, or a company initiative.
6. Express Your Availability: Make it Easy to Connect
Clearly state your availability for an interview or further discussion. Make it easy for them to contact you. Provide your phone number and email address.
7. The Closing: A Professional Sign-Off
End with a professional closing, such as “Sincerely,” “Best regards,” or “Respectfully,” followed by your typed name.
Crafting Compelling Content: What to Include
The content of your continued letter of interest should be strategic and impactful.
Highlighting New Achievements and Skills
If you’ve acquired new skills or achievements since your initial contact, this is the place to showcase them. Did you complete a relevant course? Did you contribute to a successful project? Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible. Use metrics to demonstrate your impact. For example, instead of saying “Improved customer satisfaction,” say “Improved customer satisfaction by 15% within three months.”
Tailoring Your Message to the Company
Research the company’s recent news, initiatives, and values. Tailor your message to demonstrate how your skills and experience align with their specific needs and goals. Show that you understand their challenges and how you can contribute to their success.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls: What to Avoid
Steer clear of these common mistakes:
- Repeating your resume verbatim: Your letter should complement your resume, not duplicate it.
- Being overly aggressive or demanding: Maintain a professional and respectful tone.
- Using generic language: Avoid clichés and generic phrases. Personalize your message.
- Sending multiple follow-ups in rapid succession: Be patient and respect the hiring manager’s time.
- Focusing solely on yourself: While you need to highlight your value, also show your understanding of the company’s needs.
The Importance of Proofreading: Ensuring Flawless Communication
Before sending your letter, proofread it meticulously. Errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation can undermine your credibility. Read the letter aloud to catch any awkward phrasing. Ask a friend or family member to review it as well. A fresh pair of eyes can often spot mistakes you might miss.
Formatting and Presentation: Making a Positive Impression
The format of your continued letter of interest is important.
Choosing the Right Font and Formatting
Use a professional font, such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri, in a readable size (11 or 12 points). Use standard margins (1 inch on all sides). Ensure your letter is well-spaced and easy to read.
Sending Your Letter: Email vs. Traditional Mail
In most cases, email is the preferred method of sending your continued letter of interest. It’s fast, efficient, and allows for easy tracking. If the company has specified a preferred method of communication, follow their instructions. If you are sending via email, ensure your subject line is clear and professional, such as “Following Up: [Your Name] - [Position of Interest].”
Leveraging LinkedIn and Other Networking Opportunities
LinkedIn can be a valuable tool in your job search.
Connecting with the Hiring Manager
If the hiring manager is on LinkedIn, connect with them (but only if you feel comfortable doing so). You can view their profile to gain further insights into their background and interests. You can also send a personalized message with your connection request, referencing your continued interest.
Participating in Industry Conversations
Engage in relevant LinkedIn groups and discussions. Share insightful articles and comment on industry trends. This demonstrates your knowledge and expertise and helps you build your network.
Continued Letter of Interest: A Path to Opportunity
Sending a continued letter of interest, when done correctly, can significantly increase your chances of landing an interview and ultimately, the job. By following these guidelines, you can craft a compelling letter that showcases your interest, highlights your qualifications, and demonstrates your commitment to the company.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I haven’t heard back after sending my continued letter of interest?
Don’t take it personally. Hiring processes can be lengthy. It’s acceptable to send one more brief follow-up a few weeks later, but avoid becoming a nuisance. If you still don’t hear back, it’s probably best to move on.
Should I include attachments with my continued letter of interest?
Only include attachments if specifically requested by the hiring manager or if the attachment is directly relevant to the position (e.g., a portfolio). Otherwise, keep your letter concise and focused.
Can I send a continued letter of interest if I’ve already interviewed?
Yes! You can send a “thank you” note after your interview, reiterating your interest and highlighting key takeaways from your conversation. This is different from a continued letter of interest sent after submitting your initial application.
How long should my continued letter of interest be?
Keep it concise and focused. Aim for a single page, ideally. Hiring managers are busy, so respect their time.
Is it okay to reference previous conversations in my continued letter of interest?
Absolutely! If you’ve spoken with anyone at the company, reference those conversations in your letter. This shows that you’ve been actively engaged in the process and are building relationships.
Conclusion: Sealing the Deal with Persistence and Precision
Writing a continued letter of interest is a powerful tool in your job search arsenal. It’s a testament to your dedication and a chance to reinforce your value. By understanding the timing, structure, and content considerations outlined in this guide – including the importance of showcasing new achievements, demonstrating your research, and avoiding common pitfalls – you can create a compelling letter that captures attention and sets you apart. Remember to personalize your message, proofread meticulously, and follow up professionally. Your persistence, combined with the right approach, can turn a simple application into a career opportunity.