How to Format a Letter of Continued Interest
Writing a letter of continued interest is a crucial step for individuals who have previously applied for a job or an educational opportunity but have not yet received a final decision. This letter serves as a means to reiterate your interest in the position or program and to provide any additional information that may have been overlooked in your initial application. Proper formatting is essential to ensure that your letter is professional and stands out to the recipient. In this article, we will discuss how to format a letter of continued interest effectively.
1. Header
Begin your letter with a header that includes your contact information and the date. This should be placed at the top of the page, aligned to the left. Below the date, include the employer’s or institution’s contact information, such as their name, title, company name, and address.
Example:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Employer’s Name]
[Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
2. Salutation
Address the letter to the appropriate recipient using a formal salutation. If you know the recipient’s name, use “Dear [Recipient’s Name].” If not, “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear Admissions Committee” are suitable alternatives.
Example:
Dear Hiring Manager,
Dear Admissions Committee,
3. Opening Paragraph
In the opening paragraph, briefly reintroduce yourself and mention the position or program you are interested in. State that you are writing to express your continued interest and to provide any additional information that may be relevant to your application.
Example:
I am writing to express my continued interest in the [Position/Program Name] at [Company/Institution Name]. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team/program and believe that my skills and experience align well with the requirements of the position.
4. Body Paragraphs
In the body paragraphs, provide any new information or updates that may have occurred since your initial application. This could include additional qualifications, recent achievements, or changes in your circumstances. Be concise and focus on the most relevant information.
Example:
Since my initial application, I have completed [course/workshop/program] that has enhanced my skills in [specific skill]. Additionally, I have taken on [project/task] at [current employer/previous position], which has allowed me to develop [specific skill or knowledge].
5. Closing Paragraph
In the closing paragraph, reiterate your interest in the position or program and express your gratitude for the opportunity to submit this letter of continued interest. Mention that you are looking forward to the possibility of further discussing your application.
Example:
I am eager to discuss how my background and skills make me a strong candidate for the [Position/Program Name]. Thank you for considering my application and for the opportunity to submit this letter of continued interest. I look forward to the possibility of discussing this further with you.
6. Closing Salutation
Conclude your letter with a formal closing salutation, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” followed by your name.
Example:
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
7. Formatting Tips
– Use a professional font, such as Times New Roman or Arial, in 12-point size.
– Leave one-inch margins on all sides of the page.
– Double-space the text, both between paragraphs and within the body of the letter.
– Align the text to the left.
– Use bullet points or numbered lists to make your points clear and easy to read.
By following these guidelines on how to format a letter of continued interest, you can create a professional and compelling document that showcases your enthusiasm and qualifications.
