An expression of interest is used to demonstrate to a potential employer that you are interested in working at their place of employment. This is by describing why you wish to work for them and why you are qualified to do so. Writing an expression of interest tells an employer how serious you are and the extent of your interest in working for them. This can help you attain a job by keeping you at the forefront of the employer’s mind when roles open up. This article will provide tips and advice on how and why to write an expression of interest.

What is an expression of interest?

When an employer is not currently recruiting, an expression of interest can be sent to introduce yourself and to demonstrate your interest in working at a place of business. An expression of interest differs from a cover letter as it does not address the selection criteria for a specific role that is currently hiring. Instead, the letter should highlight the interested party’s skills, qualities, and values and how they align with the company in question. It is an excellent tool to begin building connections in your relevant industry and the first step in attaining your dream career. An expression of interest is usually submitted alongside a resume. 

When to write an expression of interest?

You can write an expression of interest at any time. If there are job opportunities that have yet to be publicly advertised, an expression of interest can help you access such roles. When a vacancy opens up, the recruiting company will first consider any expressions of interest they may have received in the interim. An impressive expression of interest may secure you an interview without having to apply through the usual channels. 

How to write an expression of interest?

An expression of interest should be no longer than one page. It should be short, concise, and direct as employers may likely not have time to read a lengthy letter. Ensure that the letter is well-written and free of punctuation or grammar mistakes. This will demonstrate your communication skills. Tone is also incredibly important; you should write in a manner that reflects excitement, enthusiasm, gratitude, and sincerity. Do not be boastful or entitled; be appreciative and keen. 

Here are some tips to help you structure your expression of interest.

Format

The expression of interest should be formatted like a typical business letter. The following contact information should be provided at the top of the letter on the left hand side:

• Name
• Job title
• Phone number
• Email address
• Residential address 
• Employer’s name (this may be the human resources manager or the head of a specific department)
• Employer’s company
• Employer’s street address 
• The subject line should state “Expression of Interest”.

Introduce yourself

The first paragraph of the letter should introduce the employer to who you are and the purpose of the letter. It is important to detail why you would like to work for the company and why it is important to you. Avoid writing a generalised letter; be as specific as possible to the exact aspects of the company that you are attracted to. An unspecified letter may leave the employer with the insincere impression that you have sent the same letter to a list of companies in the hopes that one may hire you. Research into the company can be helpful in personalising the letter and demonstrating the extent of your interest in working for them. 

You can also communicate to the recipient the role or department you are interested in working in. This can flag to the employer that if future job opportunities open up in your chosen department that they can contact you. 

Describe your qualifications

Next, you should outline to the employer why you are qualified to work for the company and what you can bring to them. This can include any relevant education, work experience, skills and knowledge.

Express your thanks

Briefly conclude by reiterating your interest in the company and the most relevant qualifications or skills you possess that may be valuable for the company. You can also direct the employer to a resume or other supporting documentation you may have attached. 

End the letter by thanking the employer for taking the time to read your letter and to keep you in mind for any future roles. This is a professional statement that shows your appreciation and gratitude for the employer. It provides a positive note for ending the letter. 

Example:

Victoria Smith

04 1234 5678

[email protected]

14 Water Lane

Sydney, NSW 2000

12 June 2024

Alex Jones
XYZ Organisation
23 Main Street
Sydney, NSW  2000

Letter of Expression of Interest

Dear Mr Jones,

My name is Victoria Smith and I am currently studying for a Bachelor of Laws at XYZ University. I am excited to be graduating at the end of this year. Throughout my degree, I have closely followed the work of your firm. I have been greatly impressed by the legal advice and representation you provide your clients in the field of family law. Lawyers, and particularly those at your firm, provide such crucial support to clients in their time of need. I am interested in the intersection of family and international law, and was fascinated hearing a recent lecture you delivered on the Hague Convention at my university. I wanted to reach out to express my interest in working at your firm once I have graduated from university. 

I have studied family law, international law, litigation and dispute management, and international dispute resolution at university. I have also worked as a paralegal for a small boutique firm specialising in family law for two years now. This provided me with important work experience in the field, allowing me to develop my practical legal skills and become familiar with the relevant legal documents and procedures. I believe that I have the relevant education and experience to begin my career in family law at your firm. I am very interested in hearing about any future job openings for graduate lawyers. 

Thank you for taking the time to read this expression of interest. I have attached my resume. This provides further information on my education, employment history, and achievements. I hope that you keep me in mind when hiring graduate solicitors at your firm. I look forward to hearing from you in the future.

Yours sincerely,

Victoria Smith