For those struggling to land a new job through conventional methods such as applying for advertised openings, perhaps it is time to try something different like sending out job inquiry letters.
What is a Job Inquiry Letter?
A job inquiry letter is sent to a target company to let them know of your interest in working with them. An inquiry letter is a proactive way of asking about working for a company that has not advertised a vacant job opening. It also explores if the company has potential job openings that match your experience and skills set.
A job inquiry letter presents an excellent opportunity to introduce yourself to a potential employer and establish a vital connection. The letter is also an opportunity to schedule a meeting where you can discuss a possible fit in the company even when there is no current or declared vacancy.
Why You Should Write a Letter of Inquiry
Contrary to what many job-seekers assume, most companies don’t always make public a job vacancy as soon as it becomes available. When you write a job inquiry letter before a company has had a chance to begin the search, you are giving yourself a head start against the competition. Being an unsolicited inquiry shows your genuine interest in the company which makes you more desirable to the hiring team.
Who to Contact
Dedicate your time to finding the right person in the target company to whom the letter will be addressed. This not only ensures that your letter lands in the right hands or desk but also displays your research skills and dedication to your advantage.
Essential Elements of an Inquiry Letter
Typically, your letter of inquiry should have the following components:
- Brief introduction
- Explain your interest
- Build credibility by highlighting your skills and experience
- Briefly describe the value you would bring to the company.
- Request for an interview
- Conclusion.
What to Include in a Job Inquiry Letter
Your letter should explain why the particular company interests you and why your experience and skills would be valuable to them. The letter should not be about what you are looking for in an employer but what have to offer.
How to Write a Job Inquiry Letter
When crafting a letter of job inquiry, brevity and politeness should be at the top of your mind. Remember, the goal is to make an impression as quickly as possible by showing that you would be an asset and great addition to the company.
- Begin the first paragraph by introducing yourself and highlighting your interest in the company.
- Include a brief outline of your education, qualifications, and experience in the second paragraph. Only focus on what is important.
- The third paragraph should be used to request a meeting where you can discuss a possible career with the prospective company.
Sample Job Inquiry Letter
Prime Movers Company
123 Brookside Road
Swindon, UK
D11 1AA
16th January 2013
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to inquire about a job opening in your Swindon Office for a Transport Logistics Manager. If the position is still open, then I am very interested as I feel it perfectly fits my skills set.
Currently, I am working for a regional transport company, where I have successfully managed the Logistics Unit for 4 years.
I look forward to meeting you and discussing my academic qualifications, relevant work experience and also explain how I can make a positive contribution to your firm’s continued growth.
Please contact me if you need any further information or require clarification. Thank you for taking your time to read my letter and I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours sincerely,
Mark Twain
430 Racecourse Drive
Birmingham, UK
B18 9NF
Sample Job Inquiry Email
Subject Line: Letter of Job Inquiry – Don Corleone
Dear Davies Brooke,
Thank you for sparing the time to read my job inquiry letter. For several years now, I have been following your company, and have been impressed with the growth and innovative approaches adopted that have led to its great success.
For ten years now, I have been working in the Leather Industry and am interested in applying my experience and skills in a fast-growing company. I believe that my vast experience and unique skill set can bring real value to Darlington Leather Works, and help to fuel the Company’s continued success for many years ahead.
I have been employed as a Tanning Supervisor for more than six years. I have consistently strived to increase productivity, enhance the working environment and promote growth. In my current job at Tranmere Tannery, I have successfully overseen production output growth by over 40% and quality control rise by 70% in just two years. Given the opportunity, I hope to bring those types of achievements to your company as well.
I would be greatly honored to meet with you and discuss career opportunities at Darlington Leather Works and how my skills and experience might benefit the company. I am ready to offer any other information or details that you might require.
I look forward to your response.
Sincerely,
John Doe
Job Inquiry Letter Templates and Examples
How to Send Your Letter
When it comes to how to send your inquiry letter, you have several options. While most companies are now hiring through the online process, a letter sent by ordinary mail stands a better chance of being opened and read than an email job inquiry message. This is especially true when you are not responding to an advertised vacancy.
A letter sent through the mail has the benefit of being both professional and traditional. On the other hand, though email is more modern, some hiring managers may be reluctant to open file attachments coming from unknown addresses. Your email might be ignored.
Tips for Writing a Job Inquiry Letter
- Be professional
- Explain your interest in the company
- Highlight your education, skills, and qualifications
- Request for a meeting
- Include your contact details
- Use the same format for your letter and resume
Final Thoughts
Rather than wait for a company to post an opening, it might be a better option to write an inquiry letter. Besides inquiring about any open positions in a company, an inquiry letter could also land you a vital informational interview with the HR department or the company executives.
