How to Write a Cover Letter for an Unadvertised Job

man with laptop and document — Photo:
Shapecharge / E+ / Getty Images

Not all companies advertise job openings. Some companies get plenty of applicants without advertising. Other companies may not be in hiring mode but will consider applications from qualified candidates if they anticipate an opening in the near future.

Sending a resume and cover letter to an employer, even though you aren't sure if there are available jobs, is a way to get your candidacy noticed. It may also get you advance consideration for positions that have just opened up. If you have skills the company is in need of, it may even get you considered for a brand-new position.

When you know an employer has an opening, don't hesitate to apply.

Note

If you have a company you'd love to work for, consider taking the time to reach out and connect regardless of whether the organization is currently hiring.

Tips for Writing a Cover Letter for an Unadvertised Job

What's the best way to apply for unadvertised job openings? It depends on whether you know there is a position available, but the company hasn't listed it, or if there's a company you want to work for and you don't know if there are open jobs.

Cover letter example for an unadvertised job — Kelly Miller / The Balance

When You Know There is a Job Opening

If you know the company is hiring but hasn't advertised the position, write a traditional cover letter expressing your interest in the open position at the company. Be sure to specifically relate your qualifications for the job.

When You Don't Know if the Company is Hiring

Writing a cover letter for an unadvertised opening (also known as a cold contact cover letter or letter of interest) is a little different than writing a cover letter for a job that you know is available.

With this type of letter, you will need to make a strong pitch for yourself and how you can help the company. Below are some tips on how to write a cover letter for an unadvertised opening.

Mention your contacts. If you know someone at the organization, mention this at the beginning of the cover letter. Having a contact at the company is a great way to get your foot in the door, even if the company isn’t actively hiring.
Use paper or email. You can send your letter via paper or email. Sending an old-fashioned paper letter works well for this type of letter, because it may have a better chance of being read than an email, which could be deleted without even being opened.
Include a resume. Whether you send your cover letter via paper or email, be sure to include a copy of your resume. Make sure you tailor your resume to the company and the type of job you are looking for.

What to Include in Your Cover Letter

Below is detailed information on what to include in your cover letter, along with links to example cover letters.

Your Contact Information
Name
Address
City, State Zip Code
Phone Number
Email Address

Date

Cover Letter Contact Section Examples

Greeting
If you can find a contact person at the company, direct your letter or email message to them. Here's how to find contacts at companies.

If you can't locate a contact person, address your letter to "Dear Hiring Manager" or leave out this section and start with the first paragraph of your letter.

Cover Letter Greeting Examples

Body of Cover Letter
The goal of your letter is to get noticed as a prospective employee even if the company isn't hiring immediately. Your letter should explain the reason for your interest in the organization, and identify your most relevant skills or experiences and explain why you would be an asset to the company.

First Paragraph: The first paragraph of your letter should include information on why you are writing. If you know someone at the company, mention it now. Be specific as to why you are interested in this particular company.

Middle Paragraph(s):The next section of your cover letter should describe what you have to offer the employer. Again, be specific as to how you can help the organization.

Final Paragraph: Conclude your cover letter by thanking the employer for considering you for employment.

What to Include in the Body Section of a Cover Letter

Closing
Best Regards, (or choose another closing from the examples below)

Cover Letter Closing Examples

Signature
Handwritten Signature (for a mailed letter)

Typed Signature
When you are sending an email letter, be sure to include all your contact information in your signature.

Signature Examples

Cover Letter Example for a Job That's Not Advertised

You can use this sample as a model to write a cover letter. Download the template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online), or read the text version below.

cover letter sample for unadvertised jobs — ©TheBalance 2018

Download the Word Template

Cover Letter for a Job That's Not Advertised (Text Version)

Your Name
Your Address
City, State Zip Code
Your Phone Number
Your Email Address

Date

Contact Name
Title
Company
Address
City, State Zip Code

Dear Mr./Ms. LastName,

As an Information Technology professional with high-level management experience in the IT industry, I learned that the best way to achieve success was to motivate the resources I had with well-defined objectives and empowerment.

A management belief based on integrity, quality, and service, along with a positive attitude, an aptitude for strategic thought and planning, and the ability to adapt quickly to new ideas and situations allows me to achieve consistent and significant successes in multiple industries.

My personality profile says:

A confident, driven individual who reacts quickly to change.
A self-starter with a strong sense of urgency who responds positively to challenge and pressure.
A fast learner who is a practical and ingenious problem solver.
A fluent and articulate communicator, flexible and responsive. A self-directed, goal-oriented doer.

My former managers' say:

"…The Information Technology Analysis will serve as a guideline for making positive contributions …your management style provided a footprint for younger members of our organization… a very positive impression of the contributions you made to our business and its growth." Gregory Hines, President and CEO, Information Data Technology.

"…the most important source of growth in our data technology business …able to focus the team and manage the product to a successful introduction …due in large part to his own personal commitment ...excellent IT project management and operational management skills." Pauline Hallenback, CTO at Information Systems.

"…your strengths as a manager are many and varied …all issues are confronted in a timely manner …management by objectives comes as a second nature to you…" Jackson Brownell, Director of Operations, Denver Technologies.

ABC Company is a company that would provide me with the opportunity to put my personality, skills, and successes to work. At a personal meeting, I would like to discuss with you how I will contribute to the continued growth of your company.

Best regards,

Your Name

Proofread Your Documents

Carefully proofread both your resume and cover letter before you send them. Here are proofreading tips for job seekers.

How to Send Your Letter

When sending your letter via email, write your letter in the email message and attach your resume to the message. In the subject line, put your name and the reason for writing (Your Name - Introduction).

Email Subject Lines

How to Send Your Resume With Your Cover Letter

Here's how to send your resume with your cover letter:

Key Takeaways

TAKE INITIATIVE: Not all companies immediately advertise opening positions. Taking the initiative to send a cover letter of introduction “on spec” may garner you an interview for either an existing or a newly developed job role.

APPLY TO YOUR DREAM COMPANY: Nothing ventured, nothing gained. If there is a company you’ve always wanted to work for, reach out to their hiring department with a strategic letter that presents your qualifications and interest in their organization.

BUILD UPON YOUR CONTACTS: A good way to get your foot into the door at a company is to begin your letter of introduction by mentioning the contacts you know who work there. Take this to the next level by proactively asking these contacts – before you send your cover letter – if they would be willing to put in a good word on your behalf with their employer.

Was this page helpful?

Thanks for your feedback!

Tell us why!