sample application letter for unspecified position

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Crafting a compelling cover letter for hidden job opportunities

Jan 07, 2020

Writer, editor and digital content specialist

The company is perfect. The team members are experienced and dynamic. You agree with the company mission and can see yourself sitting behind a desk in the office, putting your expertise to terrific use and helping the business to succeed. But there’s no job for you there. At least, not yet.

Unfortunately, this is often the reality of job hunting. But if you feel strongly drawn towards a particular company, and you believe that you could be a great employee there, don’t give up and move on. You can, and should get in touch to express your passion, your experience, and how you believe you can contribute. Submit a spontaneous application. While it’s unlikely to result in a job straight away, a spontaneous application is a strong way to make yourself known, either for positions that may be available but not advertised, or for any future openings.

When you’re sending a spontaneous application, how you present yourself is more important than ever. And that means customizing your cover letter and resume for the occasion. But before we get to that…

Why bother with a spontaneous application?

The odds that a perfect role for you is just an email away are slim but a spontaneous application can be well worth your while.

The number of job vacancies never publicly advertised makes up such a large percentage of openings that there is even a name for this sector: the hidden job market . Certain companies, and even entire industries, are more likely to lean on private networks or referrals to fill available roles quickly, rather than going through a public job posting process. So there’s a high likelihood that the perfect role for you is out there, but not advertised.

More significantly, a spontaneous application is useful for making a positive introduction to a hiring manager for potential roles in the future. It gets your foot in the door, so to speak. It may also be an opportunity for you to sell yourself, your experience, and your knowledge of the company and its vision by suggesting to an employer that they need a role they simply haven’t yet thought of.

When should you send one?

If you’re applying for a position that is unlikely to exist yet, consider sending a spontaneous application in the discovery phase of a job search . This is when you’re interested in a new position but not actively in need of one. This way, you’re not placing too much faith in the application, and have plenty of time to create a long-lead introduction to the company .

It can also be helpful to pay attention to tech and business news , noting startup companies that have recently completed fundraising rounds. This is likely to mean that they will be hiring very soon.

How to write an accompanying cover letter

When you’re writing a cover letter for a spontaneous application, you won’t have a specific job description to guide you. This can be frustrating because it’s more difficult to clearly explain how your experience and skills fit a particular set of requirements without a framework. However, it can also be liberating, allowing you to be broader in your personal pitch.

The main idea, as with any cover letter, is to sell your expertise, your knowledge of the company and your belief that you have what it takes to help their business succeed. While the body of your email should be crisp and digestible, your cover letter is where you can make the most compelling case for your candidacy.

Even though there is no bullet list of job duties that you can reference, you can infer from the company’s products and services what your work there might involve. After, you can elaborate on how you would excel by using specific examples from your past experience as a reference.

Here are a few tips specific to spontaneous cover letters:

Be as concise as possible while still clearly detailing your experience and ambitions. Because your application is spontaneous, a manager’s attention span when reviewing it will probably be even shorter than normal.

Be specific in describing how you could help the company, and what kind of position you would like. The narrower your goal, the more convincing it will be that you are a focused applicant, and not someone fishing for any available job.

Include examples of your past work , if relevant to your industry. Do this either in the form of a link to a professional portfolio website or as a separate attachment that you can reference in your email.

Email a specific person by searching through Welcome to the Jungle, or other recruitment websites and tools such as LinkedIn. This will make sure that your message reaches the right person and is (hopefully) read.

Ask for a recommendation , if you happen to have anyone in your social or professional networks who works, has worked, or knows anyone at the company to which you’re applying. Having a personal introduction can make all the difference, especially if said person is able to vouch for your abilities and your work ethic.

The waiting game

Next comes the hard part: being patient . It’s best not to expect any news, and certainly not straight away. You may not hear back after sending a spontaneous application at all. The company might simply not respond to unsolicited applications. Even if you made a good impression, it may be months before a role is open that fits your experience. In such cases, you can follow up with a friendly email.

Give it at least two weeks before following up on your first email, and then leave any subsequent unsolicited contact to once every few months . Any more than that, and you risk seeming less like an interested and passionate candidate, and more like a nuisance.

Despite the uncertainty, a spontaneous application is still an exercise well worth doing. Jobs, as with life, are uncertain—a unique combination of the right place, the right time, and more than a little bit of luck. Your application may not lead anywhere productive. But whereas the downside is nonexistent, the upside holds huge untold potential. Who knows? It might just end up with you landing your dream job.

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How to Write a Cover Letter Without a Job in Mind

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How to Write a Cover Letter to a Previous Employer

How to write a letter requesting a future job opening, how to write a sample letter accepting an interview opportunity.

• How to Describe Focus & Customer Skills on a Resume
• How to Write a Resume & Cover Letter for a Quality Control Inspector

When you're getting a jump-start on the job-seeking process, crafting a detailed, persuasive resume and cover letter is likely the No. 1 item on your agenda. While it's fine to draft a generic cover letter that doesn't pertain to just one specific job, ideally, you'll eventually want to customize and tailor the letter to the employer you're sending it to.

All-Purpose Introduction

The introductory portion of your cover letter should indicate the type of job you're applying for, where you heard about the company and why you think you'd be a good fit. Example:

I was very excited to learn that COMPANY NAME is hiring for the position of BLANK. I became aware of your opening from BLANK, and I feel I’d be a great fit, as I’ve been working in BLANK industry for five years.

All-Purpose Credentials

The next section of your cover letter should detail your work experience, using care to reference the key elements of the job description, and touch on the main hiring criteria the employer lays out in the listing. These will vary from job to job, but your all-purpose cover letter template should follow this basic format. Here are some things to include:

• Your experience
• Specialized skills
• Significant achievements

I've worked as a department store manager for 15 years. I have experience in merchandising, handling vendors, hiring and training and overall operational functions. In my last role, I oversaw an expansion effort that doubled the size of our company.

Soft Skills

Regardless of the type of job you’re applying for, many of the same soft skills will apply. These include your ability to collaborate, think critically, make decisions and be detail oriented. Use this type of verbiage:

I consider myself to have exceptional time management skills, and I enjoy working both independently and as part of a team. I have a good temperament for management, and I strive to ensure my staff is happy, trained and fulfilled in their roles.

Again, reference individual job listings to tweak this verbiage based on the requirements of the particular position you eventually use it for.

Finish Strong

One of the key ways to customize your all-purpose cover letter to an individual employer is to close with a strong statement that outlines why you want the job and why you’re the right candidate.

I've always held this organization in high regard and would love the chance to be part of such a respected business. I believe you'll find my dedication, work ethic and loyalty is well in line with the high standards you’ve established for your company.

When you're drafting a somewhat generic cover letter to alter and use in different circumstances, use extra care in proofreading it before you send. You don’t want to inadvertently reference Company A in a letter you’re sending to Company B.

• Forbes: I've Read More Than 300 Cover Letters, And This Is How I Decide If They're Good Or Bad Within Three Minutes
• CNN Money: How to Write a Killer Cover Letter
• Use your word processing application's mail merge feature to create letters for several different addressees. Include the name of the company, the recruiter's name if you have access to it, and the street address, city, state and zip for each letter. Don't address letters "to whom it may concern." It's an impersonal greeting that tells the reader right away that it's probably just a form letter. If you cannot access the name of the recruiter or hiring manager, address the letter to "Dear XYZ Corporation Recruiter."

Lisa McQuerrey has been an award-winning writer and author for more than 25 years. She specializes in business, finance, workplace/career and education. Publications she’s written for include Southwest Exchange and InBusiness Las Vegas.

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How to apply for unadvertised jobs: the cover letter that opens doors

Found your perfect company but they are not currently hiring? Apply for unadvertised jobs with this cover letter so you can land your dream role.

When you find that rare company that you really want to work for its a big deal. Whether it is perfect for your first big break or its the ideal organisation to take you up that next rung in your career, the right company can ignite a passion for your future and motivate you to be the best you can be.

But this can all come crashing down when you find that all their positions are filled and there are no current job openings.

So what should you do about this? Sit tight and wait for a position to come available or something else?

In this post we will explore that ‘something else’ you need to do – plus how to make it happen.

Let’s start by tackling the first big question.

Is it worth your time reaching out to an organisation when they don't have any job postings?

The answer to this is a resounding yes and there are three main reasons for this.

Most positions aren’t advertised

It is estimated that 70% of positions are never advertised . This may seem hard to believe at first but when you think a little deeper it becomes obvious why this is the case.

To the outside world it may look like there are no opportunities within a company if their vacancies page is empty but on the inside any or all of these things will actually be happening.

• People are taking retirement or resigning due to factors such as taking a new job elsewhere, moving to another location, or making a career change.
• Some will unfortunately be struggling with their role and are about to lose their job or be deployed elsewhere in the organisation.
• Others will be flying high and are about to be promoted, leaving a gap to be filled behind them.
• Then there is organisational change that will involve recruitment such as new projects and business being won, products ready to be taken to market, services that need developing, or restructuring of departments and or teams.

Can you see how a timely application from a qualified candidate could be warmly welcomed, eliminating the need to advertise or instruct recruitment consultants and pay their high fees? 

There’s far less competition when you apply for unadvertised jobs

Despite the fact that most jobs never get advertised, most people don’t send speculative applications to companies.

Think about that for a minute.

Your application could be the only one or just one of a handful for a particular opening.

You won’t get lost in the crowd and you will have a much better chance of being considered in the absence of high competition.

You can bypass Applicant Tracking Systems

Most advertised positions will involve adding your details to a company’s Applicant Tracking System.

Whilst these are necessary due to the high volume of applications companies receive today, they can cause serious issues for both the jobseeker and the employer.

Jobseekers need to ensure they submit an ATS friendly resume so they don’t get rejected. If they don’t, employers and recruiters can miss out the best talent just because of design issues.

A speculative application bypasses this and gets straight to the decision makers instead.

Before you rush off though and start reaching out to loads of companies directly, I do have a word of caution.

Don’t apply for unadvertised jobs until you have done this

Whilst a timely application from a qualified candidate will be warmly welcomed, the reverse is also true.

Sending out generic approaches with little thought or research will not get the results that you want and will definitely work against  you.

At best you will be ignored but at worst, they may get irritated which will not help you when there is an advertised vacancy in the future.

Remember, you’re being proactive and trying to ‘sell yourself’ to the company.

To do this effectively you will need to have a good understanding of what the company needs now and provide an answer for a problem they might not currently have (or know they have), but are likely to have in the future.

This all comes down to putting in some research.  Check out their company website, their LinkedIn page, and set up Google alerts for their latest press releases. And don’t forget to reach out to your contacts that may have inside knowledge or even better, a name of someone that could be a mutual acquaintance.

Once you have completed your research, you will be ready to put your killer cover letter together.

The 7 sentence cover letter to use when you apply for unadvertised jobs

The trick to getting this right is having a great balance between selling yourself and using the right tone.

This can be achieved if you follow this formula.

Start with why you are writing to them

These are busy people so you need to get straight to the point to enable them to speed read your application.

Tell them why you want to work specifically for their company 

You need to let them know that you are not desperately sending your resume out to ‘anyone that will have you. ’

“The reasons I want to work here are…” This is where your research is crucial because it proves that you are serious about their company.

Explain what you can offer and why you’re a great fit.

"I offer X years of experience in this particular industry/sector, performing these particular jobs which makes me a great fit to support your organisation and the products/services it delivers."

Give a significant relevant achievement

Be careful to keep this relevant. It doesn't matter how impressive an achievement is, it will have little impact if they can’t see how it could benefit their organisation.

“In particular, one of my biggest achievements to date has been ….. [explain] and I would relish the opportunity to deliver the same results for [their company name].

Point them to your resume

“To gain a quick overview of what my contribution could be, please take a look at my profile on my attached resume.”

You are telling them that your resume has a profile they can speed read plus it will make them curious to take a look.

Add a call to action

“I would welcome the opportunity to speak with you about any current or upcoming positions that may be a great fit for my experience.”

Thank them 

“Thank you for your time and consideration and I look forward to talking with you soon.”

Cover letter sample for how to apply to a company when they are not hiring

So what does this look like in practice then?

To help you put yours together, here is an example of what this looks like as a complete cover letter.

This is based on a Project Manager but you can see how easy it is to adapt to any industry or skill set.

Dear [hiring manager/recruiter’s name]  - you will have gleaned this from your research.

I am writing to enquire about any potential opportunities at [company name] that may fit my skills and experience.

The reason for contacting you specifically is that my research showed that you mainly deal with X projects, which is my main area of interest and expertise.

I offer [insert number of years] years of experience within [name your industry/sector] underpinned by [name specific skills or qualifications].

For example, one of my biggest achievements to date has been the X project where I successfully ….. [explain] and I would relish the opportunity to deliver the same results for [their company name].

To gain a quick overview of what my contribution could be, please take a look at the profile on my attached resume.

I would welcome the opportunity to speak with you about any current or upcoming positions that I could make a positive contribution to.

I appreciate how busy you must be so thank you so much for your time and consideration and I look forward to talking with you soon.

Key Takeaways

Companies are constantly recruiting but typically just a few positions actually make it out on to their career pages or get promoted on job sites.

This means that it is a great idea to reach out to potential employers and apply for unadvertised jobs.

However, you must put in the research so that you can explain why you want to work for them and why you would be a great fit, otherwise you may come across as looking desperate.

If you use this cover letter formula, they will want to snap you up before their competition gets the chance to hire you

Mark Daniel

About the Author

A global resume writer and career coach, Mark is known for his honest, direct, and hard-hitting advice, helping people manage job applications and succeed at interviews. Now based on the Sunshine Coast in Australia, he is the co-founder of Real Life Career Advice and a prolific publisher, contributing to several industry magazines and his daily career advice blog to his 45,000 LinkedIn followers.

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Sample Cover Letter for a Job Application

What Is an Application Letter?

What to include in your application letter, tips for writing a cover letter, cover letter sample and template, email cover letter sample.

• How to Send an Email Application

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Alex Dos Diaz / The Balance

What's the best way to write a letter to apply for a job? Your letter should detail your specific qualifications for the position and the skills you would bring to the employer. What’s most important is to show the employer that you’re a perfect match for the job.

Your job application letter is an opportunity to highlight your most relevant qualifications and experience. An effective cover letter will enhance your application, showcase your achievements, and increase your chances of landing an interview.

Review what to include in a job application letter, tips for writing that will get your application noticed, and examples of cover letters and email messages to send when applying for a job.

Key Takeaways

• An application letter accompanies a resume and may be uploaded to a job portal, sent via email, or even sent by postal mail, depending on the employer’s requirements.
• Application letters are an ideal way to show your interest in a job and highlight your most relevant skills.
• It’s important to match your letter to the job description and show the employer you have the qualifications they are seeking.

A   letter of application, also known as a  cover letter , is a document sent with your resume to provide additional information about your skills and experience to an employer. Your letter of application is intended to provide detailed information on why you are an ideal candidate for the job.

Your application letter should let the employer know what position you are applying for, what makes you a strong candidate, why they should select you for an interview, and how you will follow up.

Effective application letters explain the reasons for your interest in the specific organization and identify the most relevant skills that qualify you for the job.

Unless an employer specifically requests a job application letter sent by postal mail, most cover letters today are sent by email or attached as a file in an online application tracking system.

As with all cover letters, a job application letter is divided into sections:

• The heading includes your name and contact information.
• A  greeting  addressed to a specific person, if possible.
• The introduction includes why the applicant is writing.
• The body discusses your relevant qualifications and what you have to offer the employer.
• The close thanks the reader and provides contact information and follow-up details.
• Your  signature to end the letter .

Here’s how to ensure your application supports your resume, highlights your most relevant qualifications, and impresses the hiring manager.

Get off to a direct start.  In your first paragraph, explain why you are writing. Mention the job title, company name, and where you found the job listing. While you can also briefly mention why you are a strong candidate, this section should be short and to the point.

Offer something different than what's in your resume. You can make your language a bit more personal than in your resume bullet points, and you can tell a narrative about your work experience and career.

Application letters typically accompany resumes, so your letter should showcase information that your resume doesn't.

Make a good case.  Your first goal with this letter is to progress to the next step: an interview. Your overarching goal, of course, is to get a job offer. Use your application letter to further both causes. Offer details about your experience and background that show why you are a good candidate. How have other jobs prepared you for the position? What would you bring to the role and the company? Use this space to  emphasize your strengths .

Close with all the important details.  Include a thank you at the end of your letter. You can also share your contact information and mention how you will follow up.

This is a sample cover letter.  Download the cover letter template  (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for an email sample.

The Balance

John Donaldson 8 Sue Circle Smithtown, CA 08067 909-555-5555 john.donaldson@email.com

September 6, 2023

George Gilhooley LTC Company 87 Delaware Road Hatfield, CA 08065

Dear Mr. Gilhooley,

I am writing to apply for the programmer position advertised in the Times Union. As requested, I enclose my certification, resume, and references.

The role is very appealing to me, and I believe that my strong technical experience and education make me a highly competitive candidate for this position. My key strengths that would support my success in this position include:

• I have successfully designed, developed, and supported live-use applications.
• I strive continually for excellence.
• I provide exceptional contributions to customer service for all customers.

With a BS degree in computer programming, I have a comprehensive understanding of the full lifecycle of software development projects. I also have experience in learning and applying new technologies as appropriate. Please see my resume for additional information on my experience.

I can be reached anytime via email at john.donaldson@email.com or by phone at 909-555-5555.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you about this employment opportunity.

Signature  (only if a hard copy letter)

John Donaldson

The following is a sample email cover letter to send as part of a job application.

Email Application Letter Example

Subject: Colleen Warren - Web Content Manager Position

Dear Hiring Manager,

I'm writing to express my interest in the Web Content Manager position listed on Monster.com. I have experience building large, consumer-focused, health-based content sites. While much of my experience has been in the business world, I understand the social value of this sector, and I am confident that my business experience will be an asset to your organization.

My responsibilities have included the development and management of website editorial voice and style, editorial calendars, and the daily content programming and production for various websites.

I have worked closely with health care professionals and medical editors to provide the best possible information to a consumer audience of patients. I have also helped physicians use their medical content to write user-friendly and easily comprehensible text.

Experience has taught me how to build strong relationships with all departments in an organization. I have the ability to work within a team, as well as cross-team. I can work with web engineers to resolve technical issues and implement technical enhancements. 

I am confident working with development departments to implement design and functional enhancements, monitor site statistics, and conduct search engine optimization.

Thank you for your consideration.

Colleen Warren colleen.warren@email.com 555-123-1234 www.linked.com/colleenwarren

How to Send an Email Application Letter

If sending your cover letter via email, list your name and the job title you are applying for in the  subject line  of the email:

Colleen Warren - Web Content Manager Position

Include your contact information in your email signature but don't list the employer's contact information.

Do you have to write a cover letter when you apply for a job?

Some employers require cover letters. If they do, it will be mentioned in the job posting. Otherwise, it’s optional but it can help your chances of securing an interview. A cover letter gives you a chance to sell yourself to the employer, showcase your qualifications, and explain why you are a perfect candidate for the job.

How can you use a cover letter to show you’re a qualified candidate?

One of the easiest ways to show an employer how you’re qualified for a job is to make a list of the requirements listed in the job posting and match them to your resume . Mention your most relevant qualifications in your cover letter, so the hiring manager can see, at a glance, that you have the credentials they are looking for.

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Home » Unsolicited Application Letter: 07 Examples & Ideas

Unsolicited Application Letter: 07 Examples & Ideas

Tired of job applications that go nowhere? Wondering how to make your unsolicited application letter stand out? You’re not alone. A lot of people find the process of applying for jobs frustrating and overwhelming. But don’t give up! There are ways to make yourself stand out from the crowd, and submitting an unsolicited application letter is one of them. So check out these seven examples for inspiration, and see if you can’t put together your own version that will catch the hiring manager’s eye. if you want to learn how to write cover letter continue reading.

In today’s world, competition for jobs is intense. So If you want to make sure your resume lands on the top of the pile, you need to do something that will set you apart from all the rest. One way to do this is by sending an unsolicited application letter. This type of letter is not required, but it can help you stand out from other candidates.

Table of Contents

Unsolicited Cover Letter

Dear Sir/Madam,

I would like to take this opportunity to express my interest in working for your company. Recently read an article about how you were considering hiring new staff and would like the opportunity to be considered for one of the positions.

I am a [insert positive trait] recent high school graduate ([insert GPA]) who has been involved with various extracurricular activities ([insert extracurricular activities that interest you]). Throughout my high school career, I have improved my skills in [insert skills] and also have developed my knowledge in [insert relevant coursework]. So If hired by your company, I would bring these attributes with me to the job.

I am very interested in being a part of your team and am excited to discuss further how my qualifications can contribute to the goals of your company. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an interview, please contact me at [PHONE NUMBER]. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely, Applicant Name, Email, Address, Contact#

Unsolicited Application Letter Sample

Respected Sir/Madam,

Subject: applying for the post of __________.

I wish to apply for the post of __________ in your esteemed company with reference to your advertisement published in leading daily/magazine on _________date. With the experience that I have garnered during my tenure in my last job, I am convinced that my expertise would be a valuable addition to your company. Therefore I have enclosed my resume with this letter, for favorable consideration of my candidature.

In case you require any clarifications from me, I would be glad to answer all your queries promptly. In case you find my application worthy of your requirements, kindly contact me at the number given below or by email/letter. Hoping to hear from you soon.

Yours sincerely, Name and signature here

Unsolicited Cover Letter Sample

Hello Sir/Madam,

I am an undergraduate student in (country name). I was looking through your company’s website and found that you are hiring qualifications like mine. Would like to apply for the advertised position.

My name is ____ and I am 23 years old. As mentioned on my resume, I have studied Business Management at university. I have graduated with ____ marks out of 100, which gives me an average of ____%. And I consider this qualification to be enough for the advertised position.

I have interest in your company’s product/services and would like to learn more about them by working for you. So You can see that my qualifications align perfectly with the requirements of the advertisement.

I would like to discuss your requirements in further detail and am available at (contact number) or via email on (email address). I hope that we will be able meet up soon for a personal interview.

Thank you very much for taking your time to consider my application, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best regards, Name _______ Contact number __________ Email address ___________

Unsolicited Application Example

I am writing to formally submit my application for the Senior Executive Assistant position advertised in today’s newspaper. I believe I would be an asset to your company and also it is my account qualifications which lead me to write this letter. Have extensive knowledge of spreadsheets, databases and administrator tools. My communication skills are demonstrated through previous employment in customer support and administration.

I am confident that my work ethic and detailed-oriented nature will ensure the smooth running of your office day today. Was particularly drawn to this position because of the account responsibilities such as scheduling and creating presentations.

I ask for an opportunity to meet with you in order to discuss whether I would be a suitable candidate for this position. And I can be contacted on your preferred number or via email, which is above.

Thank you for your time and consideration in this matter.

Yours sincerely, Applicant’s Name

Unsolicited Job Application Letter

Respected Sir,

With due respect, I wish to submit that I have done my Masters in Science from XYZ College and now want a job. In the enclosed resume, you will find my credentials. As per your advertisement of hiring a graduate for the position of assistant professor, my candidature is respectfully solicited. I would be most grateful if you could kindly consider my application for this post.

I am enclosing herewith two references also, in case you may require them to check my suitability. Obliged if you will give me an appointment at your convenience so that we may meet and discuss matters further. Would be glad to answer any queries that you might have about me. Hoping to hear from you soon.

Your’s Faithfully, Name, Email, Address, Contact#

Example of Unsolicited Application Letter

I am writing in regards to the open Assistant Accountant position posted on your website. I have enclosed my resume with this application letter. Also I enclose a recent photograph, as per your request.

I have recently obtained an Honors degree in Economics from X University therefore I think that my academic record would make me a suitable candidate for the Assistant Accountant position. A strong team player and I also have excellent communication skills.

I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss my suitability for this role in person and look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely, Name, Signature

Unsolicited Application Cover Letter

I am writing to you to apply for the post of an intern at ____

My reasons for applying are as follows. Firstly, I would like to gain practical work experience so that I am better able to decide what type of work interests me most. My university course is not very well structured and many of my fellow students have found it difficult to pinpoint what they want to do when they leave university. I feel that the experience of working in a real environment is necessary for me.

Secondly, my degree course has given me a good grounding in my subject and I am keen to develop my knowledge and skills further. There are many areas within ____ industry that would allow me to improve on my practical and theoretical knowledge.

Thirdly, I have been a hard-working student with good academic performance throughout my university course. In addition to this, I have shown myself to be an enthusiastic member of staff participating in extra-curricular activities such as sports teams and societies. Finally, I am a good team worker and am able to work effectively both independently and in team settings. These are all skills which I am sure would be useful to you.

I feel that although there are many students applying for internships at ____, my practical experience of university life and a strong sense of commitment make me an ideal candidate. Please find attached a copy of my CV for your reference.

Yours faithfully, Name: Email: Address:

That’s it! We hope you found these unsolicited application letter examples helpful and that they gave you some ideas for your own letters. However Now it’s time to put your new knowledge into practice. What do you think? So Let us now in the comment section. And, if you need more help writing an amazing cover letter , be sure to check out our other resources or contact us today for expert assistance.

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How to Write a Cold Email for an Unadvertised Job

It’s estimated that between 60 and 80 percent of open jobs are never publicly advertised. This means that you could be scouring every job board and following dozens of employers on LinkedIn and never hearing about your dream job. 

The good news is it’s possible to learn about unadvertised positions even if you don’t have an “in” with the company. You can do it by writing a cold email to the hiring manager. 

If you don’t do it correctly, a cold email can backfire. However, if you do your homework and prepare a properly written message, it could help you discover a great position that fits your skills without any competition from public job sites. We’ll explain how to do it. 

What is an unadvertised job?

An unadvertised job is a position that’s not publicly announced via traditional job posting channels like job boards and social media platforms. Unadvertised positions might be jobs that the company intends to fill internally, niche roles that are best filled via a specialized search, or leadership positions where the company doesn’t want to publicize that there’s about to be a vacancy.

What is a cold email?

A cold email is one that’s sent without a prior relationship to the recipient. Cold emails are most often used in a sales setting to pursue new business leads, but they can be useful in any situation where you’re looking to make inroads without a preexisting personal connection. 

Why it’s important to send cold emails when job searching

The average job posting receives anywhere from 100 to 200 applications. If you only apply to publicly posted jobs, you’re up against some stiff competition. 

Even if you’re a very strong candidate, you’re at a disadvantage sheerly from a numbers standpoint. If there are 200 applications on the table, it’s impossible for a hiring manager to give every single one of them equal consideration. 

You open a new range of possibilities by sending cold emails about potential jobs. There’s a chance you’ll hear about an upcoming position and have the opportunity to be considered first before other candidates apply. 

If there aren’t any positions available, you might strike up a relationship with a hiring manager that could lead to an opportunity down the road. There’s even a chance that your especially strong resume will prompt a manager to hire you even if they don’t have a specific job opening because of what you could bring to the table for the company. 

When should you send a cold email about a job

When you’ve received advance notice about an opening.

Your cold email might not be 100% cold. Sometimes, you’ll have a good idea that a position is about to become available because you heard about it from someone in your network. 

Sending a cold email is a great way to get a jump on being considered and potentially even get the company to interview you before posting the job anywhere.

When you’re especially interested in the company

Most people have a few ‘dream employers’–companies where they’d take any job just to be part of the team. If you have a dream employer or two, writing a cold email is a way to get your foot in the door, if even just to begin building rapport and put your name on their radar. 

When you can make a strong case for your skills

Top employers always look for standout talent even when they don’t have a position. It’s not unheard of for a company to create a position specifically for an amazing candidate that they want to pin down. 

For this to happen, you need to be able to sell your skills and make a strong case for how they’d benefit the company. 

What to include in a cold email for an unadvertised job

A concise introduction.

Tell the recipient who you are and why you’re writing to them. If you have a mutual connection with the recipient, mention that person at the top of your letter.

Your elevator pitch

Summarize your skills and where you see yourself fitting in at the company.

Your professional highlights

Share one to two of your top career accomplishments, making them as relevant to this employer as possible.

What’s in it for the company

Give specific examples of the positive impacts you could make.

How to learn more

Help the reader take the next step if they’re interested in getting to know you better, like attaching your resume, linking to your online portfolio, or inviting them to call you.

What you should omit

A long-winded message

You should be appreciative of the fact that the recipient is reading an unsolicited email. Be respectful of their time by keeping your message brief and to-the-point.

Sample cold emails to inquire about a job

Mr. Oxford, 

My name is Beatrice Greene and I’m reaching out because I think my PR skills could be an asset for Hunter College. Marjorie Smith gave me your contact information; she and I know each other through a local young professionals group. 

I’m a seasoned publicist with extensive experience driving positive media coverage for educational organizations. My work for Nassau Community College and Brooklyn Day School has resulted in placements with news outlets like The New York Times, New York Magazine, and Forbes. 

Hunter College has a long history of expanding educational opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds. I believe my professional experience coupled with my personal experience as an alumna of a public city college make me uniquely qualified to highlight the school’s accomplishments on a national stage. 

My resume is attached, and you can view my coverage portfolio here. I’d welcome the opportunity to discuss employment with you further. I can be reached at 212-222-1111

Sincerely, 

Beatrice Greene

If you’re not sure who to direct your email to, LinkedIn is a good starting point–search for ‘[company name] hiring manager.’ You can also direct your email to an internal recruiter or a manager within the department you’re interested in. 

It doesn’t hurt to include a line at the top of your message asking to be forwarded to the correct recipient, i.e. ‘If you’re not the appropriate recipient for this inquiry, would you mind pointing me to the right person?’

As long as the rest of your message is professional and relevant, most people will be happy to pass it along. 

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20 Examples Of How To Address a Cover Letter to an Unknown Recipient

Introduction.

Imagine sending out dozens of job applications, only to realize that you've been addressing your cover letters incorrectly. As it turns out, addressing a cover letter to an unknown recipient can be a tricky task. In this comprehensive guide, we'll provide strategies for finding the right name, using job titles as an alternative, formatting the letter, avoiding common mistakes, leveraging professional networking, and understanding the importance of personalization. By following our advice, you can increase your chances of landing that job interview and making a great first impression.

Finding the Right Name

Before you give up on finding the recipient's name, consider these research strategies:

Check the job post for a specific name. Sometimes, the name of the hiring manager or contact person is listed in the job posting. Read the post carefully to see if a name is mentioned.

Search the company website for a company directory or listing of key personnel. Many organizations have a "Meet Our Team" or "About Us" section that introduces their staff members. Look for someone with a relevant title, such as "Hiring Manager" or "Human Resources Director."

Call the company directly and ask for the appropriate contact person. If you're unable to find the name online, consider calling the company and asking for the name of the person responsible for hiring for the position you're applying for. This approach can be particularly effective for smaller organizations.

Utilize professional networking platforms like LinkedIn to find the recipient. LinkedIn is a powerful tool for job seekers. Try searching for employees at the company with relevant titles, then check their profiles for clues about their role in the hiring process. You can learn more about how to find the name of the hiring manager using LinkedIn in this helpful article.

Personalize your cover letter. Addressing your cover letter to a specific individual shows that you've done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position. This extra effort can make a big difference in how your application is perceived by the recipient.

Using a Job Title

If you're unable to find the recipient's name, consider using a job title or department head as an alternative:

Address the letter to the job title of the reader. For example, you might write "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear Human Resources Director." This approach is more specific and professional than using a generic greeting like "To Whom It May Concern."

Consider addressing the letter to the head of the department where you're applying to work. If you know the department your job falls under, try addressing your cover letter to the department head, such as "Dear Marketing Director" or "Dear IT Manager."

Explain why using a job title or department head can still demonstrate professionalism and personalization. Although it's not as ideal as using a specific name, addressing your letter to a relevant job title shows that you've put some thought into your application and have a clear understanding of the company's structure.

Provide examples of different job titles to use as salutations. You can find a list of different job titles to use as salutations in this resource.

Discuss the potential impact of using job titles on the success of the job application. While using a job title may not guarantee success, it can increase your chances of making a favorable impression. A personalized salutation indicates that you're genuinely interested in the position and have taken the time to research the company.

Formatting the Letter

When addressing a cover letter to an unknown recipient, follow these formatting tips:

Always use "Dear" to start the address. This is a professional and respectful way to begin a cover letter.

Use a gender-neutral title (such as Ms.) if the recipient's gender is unknown. If you're unsure of the recipient's gender, it's better to use a neutral title like "Ms." rather than making assumptions.

For non-gender-specific names, use the recipient's full name. If you can't determine the recipient's gender based on their name, address the letter using their full name, such as "Dear Taylor Smith."

Maintain a professional tone even when the name is unknown. Even if you don't know the recipient's name, it's crucial to keep your language and tone professional throughout your cover letter.

Provide examples of well-formatted cover letter salutations.

While it's always best to try and find the name of the hiring manager or recruiter, there may be times when you just can't find that information. Don't let it deter you. Below are 20 examples of how you can address your cover letter when the recipient is unknown:

1. Dear Hiring Manager, 2. To the Recruitment Team, 3. Dear Human Resources Team, 4. Attention Hiring Committee, 5. Dear [Job Title] Hiring Team, 6. To the [Company Name] Team, 7. Dear [Company Name] Recruiter, 8. To Whom It May Concern, 9. Dear Hiring Authority, 10. Attention [Company Name] Hiring Professionals, 11. Dear Talent Acquisition Team, 12. Hello [Company Name] Selection Panel, 13. Dear Recruitment Advisor, 14. To the [Industry] Professionals at [Company Name], 15. Attention [Company Name] Talent Scouts, 16. Dear Hiring Advocate, 17. To the Selection Committee for [Job Title], 18. Dear [Company Name] Staffing Team, 19. Attention [Job Title] Recruitment Panel, 20. Dear [Company Name] Hiring Panel,

Remember, the goal is to be as respectful and professional as possible in your salutation. Even if you don't know the recipient's name, demonstrating courtesy in your greeting will set a positive tone for the rest of your cover letter.

Also, avoid overly casual greetings like 'Hello' or 'Hi there,' which might seem unprofessional, and stay clear of outdated phrases such as 'Dear Sir or Madam.' Instead, opt for more modern, inclusive alternatives. Be sure to follow your greeting with a comma or a colon, then leave a space before starting the body of your letter.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

When addressing a cover letter to an unknown recipient, it's essential to avoid these common mistakes:

Using generic greetings like "To Whom It May Concern." This phrase is outdated and impersonal, and using it can make your application seem generic and unprofessional. Instead, try to find a specific name or use a job title, as discussed in previous sections.

Using incorrect titles or making assumptions about the recipient's gender. Making assumptions about someone's gender or using an inappropriate title can potentially offend the recipient and hurt your chances of landing an interview. Stick to gender-neutral titles or use the recipient's full name when in doubt.

Addressing the letter to the wrong department or job title. Be sure to double-check that you're addressing your letter to the appropriate person or department. Sending your application to the wrong person can result in your application being overlooked or discarded.

Failing to proofread the cover letter for errors, even in the salutation. Typos and other errors can make a poor impression on the recipient. Be sure to proofread your entire cover letter, including the salutation, before submitting it.

Provide examples of mistakes that could hurt the applicant's chances of landing an interview. Some examples of common errors include misspelling the recipient's name, using an informal greeting (such as "Hey"), or addressing the letter to an unrelated department (e.g., "Dear Accounting Manager" when applying for a marketing position).

Utilizing Professional Networking

Leveraging your professional network can be an effective way to find the name of the recipient for your cover letter:

Use platforms like LinkedIn to research the company and its employees. As mentioned earlier, LinkedIn is a valuable resource for job seekers. You can use the platform to find employees with relevant titles, learn more about the company culture, and even discover mutual connections who might be able to provide an introduction or additional information.

Connect with current employees or alumni of the company. Networking with people who work at the company or have worked there in the past can give you valuable insights into the hiring process and help you identify the appropriate contact person for your cover letter.

Search for the appropriate contact person within your professional network. Use your connections to find people who work at the company you're applying to, and ask if they know who the hiring manager for your desired position is.

Networking can help job seekers get noticed by potential employers. Building relationships with people at the company can increase your chances of getting noticed and potentially even lead to a referral. Learn more about how networking can help job seekers get noticed by potential employers in this article.

Offer examples of successful job seekers who found the recipient's name through networking. For instance, this cover letter that landed a job seeker a role at LinkedIn is a great example of how personalizing your cover letter and leveraging your network can help you stand out.

Importance of Personalization

Personalizing your cover letter can make a significant difference in the success of your job application:

Discuss the impact of personalization on the reader's impression of the applicant. A personalized cover letter demonstrates that you've done your research and are genuinely interested in the position, which can make a positive impression on the recipient.

Provide statistics on the success rate of personalized cover letters compared to generic ones. According to resume statistics , candidates with typos in their cover letters or resumes are 58% more likely to be dismissed, while those who do not include specific employment dates are 27% more likely to be dismissed.

Offer expert opinions on the importance of addressing cover letters to specific individuals. Many career experts agree that addressing cover letters to specific individuals can increase your chances of landing an interview.

Explain how personalization demonstrates research skills and genuine interest in the company. Taking the time to research the recipient and tailor your cover letter to the specific position and company shows that you're not only a thorough and detail-oriented candidate, but also genuinely interested in the opportunity.

Share anecdotes of successful job seekers who personalized their cover letters and landed interviews. For example, one job seeker found the recipient's name through LinkedIn and personalized his cover letter , which helped him land an interview and ultimately secure the position.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In summary, addressing a cover letter to an unknown recipient can be challenging, but by following our tips and strategies, you can make a strong impression on potential employers. Remember to:

• Research the recipient's name or use a relevant job title.
• Personalize your cover letter to demonstrate genuine interest in the position.
• Maintain a professional tone and formatting throughout your cover letter.
• Avoid common mistakes that can hurt your chances of landing an interview.
• Leverage your professional network to find the appropriate contact person.

By applying these tips to your job search, you'll increase your chances of success and make a lasting impression on potential employers. Good luck with your job applications!

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Cover letter for underqualified(4 samples)

As a BetterHelp affiliate, we may receive compensation from BetterHelp if you purchase products or services through the links provided.

The Optimistminds editorial team is made up of psychologists, psychiatrists and mental health professionals. Each article is written by a team member with exposure to and experience in the subject matter.  The article then gets reviewed by a more senior editorial member. This is someone with extensive knowledge of the subject matter and highly cited published material.

This article will list samples of “cover letters for underqualified.”

How to write a cover letter when you are underqualified

The best format for writing a cover letter when you are underqualified is as follows:

• Address the employer with a formal salutation. For example, “Dear/Hello (name of the recipient).” If you do not know the recipient’s name, you can refer to them as the hiring manager.
• The next step is to state the position you are applying for and how you found the opening. 
• Be Honest About Your Chances.
• Talk about the qualifications you have and highlight your achievements.
• Share what makes you unique.
• Conclude your letter with a forward-looking statement. For example, “I look forward to discussing the position with you further.”

Phone Number

Email Address

Dear Mr/Ms./Mrs. (Last name),

I am writing this letter in response to your advertisement, seeking application for the post of XXX (post you are applying for) with your organization.

I understand the position demands XXX, XXX,XXX (a few key skills mentioned in the advertisement) and to address those demands, I will humbly share the following experience of mine that I feel makes me suitable for this position:

(List a  few of your experiences that are relevant to key skills advertised for the job)

Following are few of my achievements that I would like to share with you

(List a few of your professional achievements and rewards that you have been conferred)

As an individual, I always have a passion to learn new things and am constantly driven by new challenges. To me, a successful professional is one who is ready to move out of his/her comfort zone and this attribute perfectly suits my personality.

I have always aspired to take up a profile that you have mentioned in the advertisement and I am excited for being a part of your esteemed organization.

I am attaching my curriculum vitae along with for your kind perusal. I shall look forward for a meeting with you to discuss more about my suitability with your open position.

Thanking You

(Signature)”

Authority name/Position name…

Institute Name…

Institute Address…

Respected Sir,

As a hardworking and keen person, I am writing this letter to apply for a job in your company. It came to my knowledge through an advertisement in the newspaper (Job news source) that you require skilled recruits for this position. I have all skills and required experience for the job. I am able to meet deadlines, perform tasks in the team or as an individual and adapt myself to any given situation.

Unfortunately, despite having a professional suitability for the mentioned job, I do not own a proper qualification as demanded in the advertisement. Therefore, I humbly request for a chance to prove my capability in person. I am sure I can convince you of my skills and change your mind about the required qualifications because I know as much as anyone with that qualification would.

I am looking forward to an interview as that is the only way for me to present you with my talents. I will call soon to inquire about the status of my candidacy.

Yours obediently,

Contact no…

“Dear Mr. Hennessy, 

My name is John Young, and I’m applying for a software engineering position at your company. I’m excited about your organization’s mission to change the world, and I’m passionate about your tech stack that includes Scala, Java, React, and Python, all languages I’ve used in the past. 

Recently, I took a year-long hiatus to aid my friend who launched a startup accelerator. During that time, I learned quite a bit about business strategy and going from zero to one hundred while working on a very limited budget. I’m confident that I can turn those skills into new products for your company. 

I’m prepared to get back into the game and restart my career as a software engineer in your beautiful city. I’m positive that I’m the perfect person to lead your middle-out engineering team. I would love to schedule a meeting and discuss this further.”

“Dear Ms. Garcia,

Blending a formal background in marketing with proven success in retail sales and customer service roles, I am looking to transition into public relations and believe I would make a great fit for the advertised position of Public Relations Specialist at your company.

Having both used and sold your products, I am already well versed in your brand and both present and past years’ offerings. I have followed with excitement as you launched in European and Asian markets and incorporated an international feel into your product line. I would bring both passion and expertise to championing your company with the press and public.

I am already trained in creating buzz and awareness through social media channels including Twitter and Facebook. When my sales team decided to participate in Walk for a Cure three years ago, we used social media to heighten our sponsorship support and raised more than $20K for the event.

Confident my transferable skills make me a solid candidate for this opening, I respectfully submit my resume for your review and request a meeting to discuss the opportunity further. I will make myself available at your convenience and look forward to your call to arrange a time. Thank you for your time and consideration.”

Frequently Asked Questions:

Do you need a cover letter when applying for a job.

Yes. A cover letter showcases how well you communicate and provides more information about who you are as a person.

What should a cover letter contain?

The main purpose of a cover letter is to introduce yourself, mention the job you’re applying for and show that your skills and experience match the needed skills and experience for the job.

If you like this blog post, please leave your comments and questions below.

Here’s How To Write a Cover Letter When You’re Not Fully Qualified

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