How to Write a Letter of Intent (Samples and Pro Tips)

Key Takeaways:

1. An LOI isn’t just for job openings. How to write a letter of intent is your best way to get noticed early on.
   
2. Not all LOIs are created equal. Understand the context. Learn to spot the difference between an LOI from a client (a non-binding offer) and the one you send as a jobseeker.
   
3. Results beat responsibilities every time. Focus your LOI on measurable outcomes and impact, like revenue growth or process improvements. This way hiring managers see what you bring, not just what you’ve done.

If you’re tired of waiting for the right job posting or sending out applications that get no response, a letter of intent (LOI) can put you ahead of the competition. Instead of reacting to job openings, an LOI allows you to introduce yourself to a company and position yourself for future opportunities even when no job is listed yet.

Why an LOI Matters

A well-crafted LOI can help you:

• Stand out in a competitive job market by making an impression before a role becomes available.
• Make a career shift by highlighting transferable skills in a new industry.
• Position yourself for an internal promotion by reinforcing past contributions.
• Target leadership roles by aligning your expertise with company goals.

However, sending a generic LOI won’t get results. To capture attention, your letter must be strategic, personalized, and results-driven.

This guide will show you how to write an LOI that gets noticed, with step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and customizable templates for different career goals.

What are the Requirements for a Letter of Intent?

Here’s a breakdown of the requirements of an LOI and how to make each of them work harder:

1. Header / Contact Information

What it is: Your name, contact details, date, and recipient information.

Why it matters: Even this small section communicates professionalism and attention to detail. A sloppy header can subconsciously signal carelessness.

Checklist:

• Include your full name, email, phone number, and LinkedIn.
• Address the letter to a specific hiring manager whenever possible, not just “To Whom It May Concern.”
• Keep it clean and easy to scan, ensuring HR can quickly identify the sender.

2. Opening Paragraph: Purpose and Context

What it is: The first paragraph states why you’re writing.

Why it matters: This sets the tone. Many LOIs start too vaguely (“I am writing to apply…”), which makes them forgettable.

Checklist:

• Clearly mention the position and company.
• Add a brief hook: a reason why this role excites you or why you’re uniquely suited.
• Avoid generic phrasing. Instead of “I am interested in this role,” try:
  • “I am excited to apply for the Marketing Manager role because my experience in scaling digital campaigns aligns with your recent expansion into e-commerce.”

3. Body Paragraph(s): Key Qualifications and Fit

What it is: Where you highlight your skills, achievements, and experiences relevant to the role.

Why it matters: This is where you demonstrate value, not just list responsibilities from your resume.

How to elevate:

• Focus on 1–2 major accomplishments that solve problems similar to what the company faces.
• Connect past experience directly to the role.
• Include subtle signals of culture fit or strategic thinking, like aligning your approach to the company’s mission.

Example: “At my previous role, I led a team that reduced project turnaround time by 30%, which mirrors your company’s objective of faster product delivery while maintaining quality.”

4. Closing Paragraph: Next Steps and Enthusiasm

What it is: The final paragraph wraps up your LOI, showing interest and prompting action.

Why it matters: Recruiters often skim this part. A weak or generic ending can diminish your impact.

Checklist:

• Reiterate enthusiasm for the role.
• Indicate availability for discussion or interview.
• Optionally, include a subtle nod to company goals or challenges to show engagement.
• Example: “I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my experience in digital marketing can contribute to your upcoming campaigns.”

5. Signature / Sign-Off

What it is: Your professional closing and name.

Why it matters: It’s the final impression—simple professionalism counts.

How to elevate:

• Use a polite, professional sign-off like “Sincerely” or “Best regards.”
• Include your typed name (and digital signature if submitting electronically).
• Make sure formatting is consistent with the rest of the document.

How Do You Begin a Letter of Intent?

Most job seekers worry too much about how to end their letter. In reality, it’s your first sentence that decides whether it’s read at all, especially in remote hiring, where employers skim fast and receive hundreds of applications from across the globe.

To help you stand out, open with clarity, confidence, and context.

What Employers Are Looking for in the First Line:

• Who you are
• What role (or value) you’re pitching
• Why it’s relevant to them
  

Here are strategic opening examples for different applicant types in the Philippines:

1. Fresh Graduate Applying to a Remote Role

“I recently graduated from (school or university here) with a degree in IT and hands-on experience in full-stack web development, and I’m excited to apply my skills in a global team setting.”

2. Career Shifter Looking for Stability

“After five years in the hospitality industry, I’ve pivoted to remote customer success and am eager to bring my people-first mindset to a fast-growing SaaS company like yours.”

3. Freelancer Seeking Full-Time Work

“As a freelance graphic designer for clients in Australia and the U.S., I’ve thrived in remote-first teams and am now seeking a long-term opportunity with structured growth.”

Pro Insight:

Avoid tired lines like “Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to…” It signals a copy-paste application. Instead, lead with intention and context. Mention the company if possible, or refer to the kind of work they do to show initiative.

5 Steps to Writing an Intent Letter

A well-written LOI removes guesswork from your job application, increases your visibility, and ensures that your skills align with what employers actually need. Follow these five steps to fast-track your job search and open new doors.

1. Personalize: Address the Right Decision-Maker

Ditch the generic greeting and find the right person to address. Search LinkedIn, the company website, or job postings to identify the hiring manager. If a name isn’t available, address your letter to a department head or recruiter.

Instead of: “To Whom It May Concern”
Use: “Dear Hiring Manager for [Department/Role]”

Why This Matters: Hiring managers are more likely to engage with applicants who take the time to personalize their communication. A well-researched LOI shows initiative and attention to detail.

2. Craft a Strong Opening: Capture Attention Immediately

Your first sentence should grab attention by instantly connecting your experience with the company’s needs. Avoid generic intros like, “I am writing to express my interest…”

To make an impact:

• Start with a compelling hook.
• Mention a company goal or challenge.
• Tie your expertise to their needs.

Example:

“With over a decade of experience leading high-growth marketing teams, I was intrigued by [Company]’s expansion into digital platforms. My expertise in data-driven campaigns and customer engagement aligns well with this growth.”

Why This Works:

• It connects your expertise to the company’s initiatives.
• It avoids generic expressions.
• It creates curiosity, making the reader want to continue reading.

Expert Tip: Reference a company milestone (e.g., product launch, industry recognition) to demonstrate research and alignment.

3. Highlight Your Value: Show Impact, Not Just Experience

Hiring managers care about results, not just responsibilities. Instead of listing your years of experience, focus on measurable achievements and impact.

How to Make Your Value Stand Out:

• Use metrics: Instead of “Managed a sales team,” say “Led a 10-person sales team that increased revenue by 25%.”
• Showcase leadership & problem-solving: Highlight how you improved processes, reduced costs, or drove innovation.
• Align with company goals: If the company prioritizes customer experience, highlight how you improved retention rates.

Example for a Product Manager:

“At [Company], I led the launch of [Product], increasing customer retention by 30%. Given [Company You’re Applying To]’s focus on user engagement, I’d love to bring my experience in product innovation to your team.”

Why This Works:

• It focuses on measurable impact.
• It directly aligns with the company’s needs.
• It positions you as a problem solver.

Expert Tip: Always ask yourself, “What specific impact did I make?” This will help you write a stronger, more results-driven value proposition.

4. Format for Visibility: ATS & AI Optimization

Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan applications. To ensure your LOI gets seen and read, follow these best practices:

• Use job-specific keywords from the job description.
• Avoid complex formatting (no tables, images, or excessive design elements).
• Submit it as a PDF or Word document (these are ATS-friendly formats).

Example:
If the job description emphasizes “cross-functional collaboration” and “strategic growth,” ensure these terms appear naturally in your letter.

Why This Matters:
A well-optimized LOI increases your chances of passing initial screenings and reaching a human recruiter.

5. Close with Impact: End with a Strong Call to Action

Most job seekers end their LOI passively, hoping for a response. Instead, take control of the next steps.

Checklist for a Strong Closing:

• Express enthusiasm: Reinforce your interest in the company and role.
• Request a conversation: Make it easy for the hiring manager to take action.
• Reinforce your value: Remind them why you would be a strong addition to their team.

Related: How to Follow Up on a Job Interview

Example:

“I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my background in [key skill] and [key achievement] can contribute to [Company]’s success. Would you be available this week for a quick conversation?”

Why This Works:

• It creates urgency.
• It makes it easy for the recruiter to respond.
• It leaves a lasting impression.

If you’re interested in samples that can inspire and fast-track your LOI creation, we’ve put together templates that you can use.

LOI Samples & Customizable Templates

Below are customizable LOI templates tailored for different job search scenarios. Replace the placeholders with your specific details to craft a compelling letter aligned with your career goals.

Templates Included:

• Executives & Leaders LOI
• Career Changers LOI
• Internal Promotions LOI
• General Job Seekers LOI

LOI For Executives & Leaders: Demonstrating Strategic Expertise

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]

[Hiring Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]

Subject: Interest in Leadership Opportunities at [Company Name]

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

With over [X years] of experience in [industry], I have led high-performing teams that have achieved [specific result, e.g., “multimillion-dollar revenue growth” or “operational efficiency improvements”]. I am reaching out to express my interest in contributing my expertise in [specific skill, e.g., “strategic business development” or “scaling operations”] to [Company Name].

Throughout my career, I have successfully [mention a key achievement, e.g., “led a company-wide digital transformation that increased efficiency by 30%”]. My ability to drive [specific impact, e.g., “profitable growth” or “organizational change”] aligns with [Company Name]’s mission and future direction.

I would love the opportunity to discuss how my leadership and expertise can support [Company Name]’s continued success. Please let me know a convenient time to connect.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

LOI For Career Changers: Framing Transferable Skills Effectively

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]

[Hiring Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]

Subject: Interest in Opportunities at [Company Name]

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

As a [current job title] with a strong foundation in [current industry], I am eager to transition into [new industry] and apply my expertise in [transferable skill, e.g., “process improvement” or “data analytics”] to drive meaningful impact. I have followed [Company Name]’s work in [specific area] and admire its commitment to [mention company value or goal].

In my current role at [Company Name], I have successfully [mention a relevant achievement, e.g., “led a cross-functional team that reduced project turnaround time by 25%”]. This experience has honed my ability to [key skill, e.g., “optimize workflows” or “manage large-scale projects”], which I believe aligns well with the needs of [new industry].

I would love the opportunity to explore how my background and skills can contribute to [Company Name]’s success. Please let me know if we can schedule a conversation.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

LOI For Internal Promotions: Reinforcing Past Contributions

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]

[Hiring Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]

Subject: Interest in [New Role] Opportunity

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I have truly valued my time at [Company Name] as a [current job title] and the opportunities I’ve had to contribute to [specific projects or company initiatives]. Given my experience and recent accomplishments, I am eager to take on a larger role within the company as [desired job title].

In my current role, I have successfully [mention key achievement, e.g., “implemented a new client onboarding process that improved retention by 20%”]. I am excited about the possibility of expanding my impact in [new role] and further supporting [Company Name]’s objectives in [specific department or area].

I’d love to discuss how I can bring even more value to the team in this capacity. Please let me know a convenient time to connect.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

For General Job Seekers: Expressing Long-Term Interest

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]

[Hiring Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]

Subject: Interest in Opportunities at [Company Name]

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I’ve long admired [Company Name] for its innovation in [industry] and its commitment to [specific value, e.g., “customer-centric solutions” or “technological advancement”]. With my background in [relevant skill or industry], I would love to explore potential opportunities where my expertise could contribute to your team’s success.

In my role as [current job title] at [Company Name], I have developed a strong track record in [mention a skill or achievement, e.g., “optimizing business operations to increase efficiency by 15%”]. My experience aligns well with [Company Name]’s goals, and I am eager to bring my skills in [specific expertise] to your organization.

I’d love the opportunity to connect and discuss how my background could be a valuable asset to your team. Please let me know if there’s a time that works for you.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

What Mistakes Should I Avoid in LOI?

Many candidates focus on surface-level elements, like tone or formatting, but the mistakes that truly hurt your LOI often fly under the radar. Here’s what to avoid:

1. Being Vague About Your Intentions

Many LOIs fail because they don’t clearly articulate why you’re interested in the role or company. A sentence like “I am applying for this position because it looks interesting” doesn’t demonstrate thoughtfulness. Instead:

• Specify why the company or role resonates with your skills and career goals.
• Highlight how your experience directly addresses the challenges of the position.

This shows that your application isn’t generic, but intentional. This signals that recruiters notice immediately.

2. Overloading Your LOI with Your Resume

Another common mistake is treating the LOI like a summary of your CV. Copying and pasting accomplishments without context can make your letter redundant and forgettable.

• Focus on one or two key achievements that relate directly to the role.
• Explain why these achievements matter and how they position you to add value.

Think of your LOI as a narrative, not a bullet-point list.

3. Ignoring Tone and Alignment with the Company

A professional LOI isn’t just about being polite. It’s about matching the company’s culture and communication style. Many candidates write overly formal or stiff letters that feel disconnected from modern work environments.

• Research the company’s tone in job postings, website, or social media.
• Adjust your LOI to sound professional yet authentic, reflecting how you would communicate on the job.

This often-overlooked step can make your LOI stand out subtly but powerfully.

4. Failing to Address Potential Gaps or Red Flags

Candidates often ignore areas that might raise questions: employment gaps, career shifts, or relocations. Leaving these unaddressed can make hiring teams speculate or assume the worst.

• Briefly contextualize gaps or transitions without over-explaining.
• Focus on how you stayed productive, developed skills, or remained aligned with your career goals.

Transparency here builds trust early in the recruitment process.

5. Neglecting Proofreading and Formatting

Even small errors can make an LOI look sloppy. Typos, inconsistent formatting, or awkward phrasing signal carelessness rather than capability.

• Use clear headings, spacing, and a logical flow.
• Read it aloud or ask someone to review it.
• Keep it concise. Ideally one page or less.

Remember: the LOI reflects attention to detail, a trait hiring managers value highly.

6. Forgetting a Strong Closing

Many LOIs end weakly with generic lines like “Thank you for considering my application.” Instead:

• Reiterate your enthusiasm and alignment with the role.
• Include a call-to-action, such as expressing interest in a conversation or interview.

A confident, thoughtful closing leaves the recruiter with a clear sense of your motivation and professionalism.

What is the Difference between Letter of Intent and Offer Letter?

Here’s a common scenario: A Filipino remote worker receives a message from a client saying,

“We’re sending you a Letter of Intent first. The contract will follow.”

It sounds promising, but what does it really mean?

There are two very different uses of a “Letter of Intent,” and most jobseekers aren’t taught to tell them apart:

Who Sends It?

Sent by	Why It’s Sent	Common in
Applicant	To express interest in joining a company (even without a posted job)	Career pivoters, unsolicited applications
Employer/Client	To express intent to hire or offer a role/project	Freelance hiring, startup teams, pre-contract work

For example:

• A remote client might send an LOI to confirm interest in working with you before onboarding through Upwork or Deel.
  
• A local employer may use it to start the paperwork while awaiting budget approval or final contract from HR.
  

Caution for Filipino Jobseekers:

A letter of intent from a client is not a job contract. It’s non-binding unless it includes clear deliverables or payment terms.

If you’re unsure whether the offer is real or fair, ask:

• “Is this a formal offer or just a preliminary intent?”
• “Will there be a written contract after this?”

What is a Letter of Intent to Make an Offer?

Let’s be honest: A lot of Filipino remote workers don’t get formal contracts. Sometimes, all you receive is a vague “LOI” that doesn’t specify salary, hours, or terms.

Make sure you understand the distinction between a letter of intent and a formal job offer, particularly when applying for remote or overseas roles.

Details/Elements	Letter of Intent	Offer Letter
Meaning	Interest or intention to hire or apply	Formal, detailed offer of employment
Legal Status	Usually non-binding	Often binding or semi-binding once signed
Common Use	Freelance setups, early hiring stages	Final step before joining a company
Red Flags	No job details, vague promises, no timeline	None, if it includes job terms and company info

Ask Yourself:

• Does this letter mention salary, benefits, or working hours?
• Is there a start date or reporting manager named?
• Are they expecting me to work before signing anything?
  

If the answer is no, then you’re still in the exploratory phase—not hired yet.

If You’re an Employer:

Offer letters are your chance to build trust with remote talent. Make your terms clear and compliant from the start. Ambiguity leads to churn, misunderstandings, and even legal risks in cross-border hiring.

Take Action: Send Your Letter of Intent Today

Opportunities don’t always come from job postings. They come from strategic positioning. If you’re not leveraging this approach, you’re leaving potential career advancements on the table.

Be proactive. Craft an LOI and see what difference it can bring to your career path. Start now. Use these proven templates and explore open roles that align with your expertise, just like Devy.