Letter of intent (LOI) Format, Outline, Sample, Example and Template

If you’re not sure what a Letter of Intent exactly is, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will define for you what this letter is when you can use it, show you some examples, & give you some tips on how to perfectly structure this type of letter. 

The Definition of Letter of intent:

Beginning with a definition, a letter of intent communicates the writer’s purpose of sending it to the reader. It is a lot like a cover letter. 

The objective of writing this letter is to jot down your interest in or in connection with a bursary or university admission in the sense of your work. The objective of writing this letter is to outline your interests in the context of seeking work, university scholarship or regular admission. A letter of intent is often used to confirm a company contract as well. 

You can look at it this, a letter of intent is like you giving an introduction to a company or organization you have wanted to work with. In general, a letter of intent will be sent to recruiters or potential employers in an organization that has not advertised positions that are appropriate to your background. Even though it is close to a cover letter, a letter of intent offers brief information about a certain job. Alternatively, a letter of intent communicates your desire to work for a company, why you are showing interest, & what expertise & practical knowledge the recruiter will think is precious for their company. 

Here’s when to use the Letter of Intent

The difference between a cover letter & a letter of intent is that a cover letter is attached with your resume to apply for a post that the company has advertised. Whereas, a letter of intent can be sent to any company you are interested to work for even though no job opening was mentioned. 

It is suitable to use an intent letter in the following situations: 

• • When you’re giving your CV to recruiters at a job fair. 
  • When someone you know mentioned that a company needs to recruit regardless of no positions being advertised. 
  • When a company is advertising positions needed to be filled but still hires staff with the same field of specialization or competence as you.
  • When you’ve been looking for work & find a company that perfectly matches your needs & job ambitions.

A letter of intent allows you to apply with your CV for a company or organization regardless of the fact that there’s no vacancy in your area of skill. The letter helps the employer to determine your importance to the business & can motivate the employer to consider if the business has a requirement or a position you can serve.

Five Steps of Writing a Letter of Intent

While your letter of intent has to be one of a kind to your own arrangement of aptitudes, encounters and characteristics, there are five fundamental components you ought to mention in your letter.

Let’s investigate these five components further, & determine which information you should incorporate unquestionably.

#1 The Salutation

Professional, proficient & formal greeting format must be followed within the Company.

For instance, the typical greeting can be utilized, for example, “To Whom It May Concern”, or you can point the letter to a specific entity in an organization. Although the letters will be sent to the Human Resource Department who will then handle them electronically, you may select a relatively common greeting such as “Dear Sir or Ma’am,” or “Hello,” in circumstances where you seem to be unsure.

You must also likewise abstain from being excessively comfortable or casual with greetings, for example, “Hey,” or by including just the recipient’s first name. The letter of intent is to be written in a way to convey a more favorable & a more first impression profound that may prompt employing openings.

#2 Introduction

The beginning sentences of the first paragraph of your letter are often used to give a formal introduction. This area must incorporate your name, a short clarification of your present experience level & your intent for writing the letter.

For instance, in the event that you’ve graduated freshly, incorporate data about your degree & your majors. In case you’re at present employed & are looking for work at another organization, incorporate your job designation/title & why you are keen on working in the organization you’re writing to.

It’s ideal to abstain from placing any negative data in your letter. You would prefer not to clarify that you’re keen on changing employers due to awful encounters with your present manager. Rather, basically explain why you are keen on working in the organization or other positive reasons, for example, professional success or the chance to seek an alternate job.

#3 Body

Utilize the body of your letter to expand on your skills, aptitudes & experiences. The body gives you a decent chance to mention in a paragraph more insights, with regards to your presence in the organization being a treasured inclusion.

Incorporate explicit instances of any moment you accomplished an objective or added to an organization’s achievement in one way or another. Evaluate your accomplishments with figures whenever the situation allows. When communicating your interests in the organization, you should give accentuation on how your abilities & encounters line up with the business’ vision & necessities.

#4 Call to Action (CTA) 

CTA or Call to Action is the concluding portion in which you clarify whatever you expect the recipient to do. You may utilize this part by thanking the recipient for making time to go through your letter. You can also add that you want them to reach out to you if there are any job openings. It’s also a good idea to write down information about where to reach you such as your email.

#5 Concluding  

The closure will be signed by a regular professional note. You could only close, for instance, by “Thank you,” “Sincerely.” Just like your introduction, it is better to not be casual here as well & refrain from using sign-offs like “Cheers” or “Yours Truly.”

Further Tips on Writing an intent Letter (LOI)

It is necessary to know that there is not a single specific way to write a letter of intent. Having said that, we will share with you some tips on how to structure your letter to be well written. 

• If you’re sending a physical letter then it is necessary for you to adopt a traditional & professional layout. This bounds you to add your name, residential address, e-mail address, & the title of your job. 
• In case you’re sending it via e-mail you must add your contact information under the signing area. 
• Refrain from bad-mouthing your present or previous company, employer, or fellow employees as it gives a bad first impression. You must be positive & keep it about yourself. 
• Be specific about which position you’re interested in for example, “General Manager” or “Operations Manager” etc. This is necessary even in the case of you pursuing job advancements from previous employment. 
• Refrain from mentioning the pay you would like to work at. This is something you are supposed to discuss at an interview if the employer has agreed to hire you. 
• If you have a family member or a friend currently working at the organization it is good to mention them in your letter. However, the consent of your friend or family is important. 
• While explaining your expertise like use active words. For example, “analytic” or “strong communicator” or “effective problem solver.” 
• Remember to only talk about your expertise that is relative to the company or the skills that go with the position you desire. Talk about similar internships or freelancing you’ve done. 
• Keep in mind that the letter needs to be brief. You don’t want your potential employer to be bored with your letter. 
• Finally, always proofread & check on the grammar and format of the letter.

Here’s an example of a sample letter of intent to guide you to write an effective letter. 

Letter of Intent (LOI) Template Sample for Guidance

To whom it may concern, 

My name is David Mason. I am a fresh graduate from New York University with a Bachelors in Journalism. Dreamers Press holds a profoundly outstanding collection of work with a righteous goal to write for every individual regardless of one’s background. I would like for you to take my request to work in your writing department into consideration. 

Throughout my time at the university, I learned various facets of journalism & copy-writing, consisting of APA format, article writing, reviews, news, column & feature writing. I chose elective content marketing so I could learn about search engine optimization & search engine marketing. I finished my degree with a GPA of 3.78. While I was doing my degree, I was part of the student newspaper writing team & I worked part-time for a few newspapers as a copywriter. During spring & summer breaks, I worked online as a paid article writer. 

As Dreamers Pressworks specifically on generating fine quality of content, I trust that my expertise will make me an integral member of your company. If there is an entry-level vacancy available please do take my letter into consideration. I am attaching my CV so you can go through my personal details, education, & other skills. 

Thank you for your time,
David Mason.