As a life science professional, it’s common to have your career sights set on specific companies that are known for innovation, growth, and excellence. If you’re seeking out a new life science job, you may want to seize any opportunity to get your foot in the door with these organizations.
While that’s reasonably simple if there’s currently an advertised vacancy that aligns with your skills and experience, you also have options if there aren’t any positions listed as available. With a letter of interest, you can showcase your capabilities, highlight your passion, and potentially get the attention of hiring managers and recruiters, even if there aren’t any vacancies. If you want to create a standout introduction using this approach, here’s how to write a letter of interest for a life science job.
Contact Information, Date, and Greeting
When you write a letter of interest for a life science job, the first information you provide is your contact information. Include your name, current job title, address, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn URL. Follow that up with the date the letter is written.
Next, include contact information for a suitable person at the target company. Ideally, you want to connect with a hiring manager that oversees your target department. If that isn’t readily available, an individual in human resources could also work well.
After that address, include a greeting with the person’s name. A simple “Dear Mr./Ms./Mrs./Dr. [last name]” is usually sufficient.
Write the Opening Paragraph
Your opening paragraph needs to pull double duty. First, it should provide an overview of who you are as a professional. Second, it should explain why you’re reaching out.
Ideally, your first sentence should cover your job title and years of experience in relevant job-related skills or niches. Follow that up with a few key skills in the second sentence. Then, outline that you’re reaching out to see about opportunities that may be a solid fit.
Body Paragraphs
After your opening paragraphs, you can include one or two body paragraphs that go into greater detail about what you bring to the table. The goal is to craft a compelling employee value proposition, so highlight relevant achievements – quantifying the particulars – that show how you can help the company reduce costs, secure higher returns, increase efficiency, or achieve goals.
If possible, include a related tidbit that connects to recent news or achievements at the target organization. That shows you’ve researched the company and are prepared to help the organization continue moving in a positive direction.
Closing Paragraph and Signature
After your body paragraphs, start a new paragraph summarizing your discussed capabilities and highlighting your enthusiasm for the organization. Thank the recipient for their time, and reassert your interest in potential opportunities.
Also, include a call to action. This can consist of a request to set up an informational interview, for example. Then, choose an appropriate closing sentiment – such as “Regards” – followed by your name, job title, phone number, and email address. Review the letter of interest for errors, and if it’s correct, it’s ready to send.
Are you looking for a new life science job and want to expedite your job search? Partner with the Staffing Resource Group to get moving in the right direction. Contact us to learn more about our services today.
