How to express interest in a job [+ examples]

The ways in which you express interest in a role can also differ depending on whether you’re expressing interest in a job that’s already been posted or whether you’re asking a company if they have anything available.  

We’re going to run you through various ways you can show employers, you’re interested in working for them.  

Tips to follow before expressing your interest  

Before getting in touch with a company or applying for a role it’s important to undertake research about the business so that you can make an informed decision on whether you want to express interest in them.  

Furthermore, no matter how you reach out to a company, whether it’s through social media, email or letter it’s important that you introduce yourself, talk about your experience and why you’re the right fit for the job. 

You should also thank those you’ve got in touch with for their time and include your contact information and a portfolio where possible. 

Expressing interest via email  

Emails are a great way to get in touch with companies as it’s a quick contact method. When writing an email, there is a format you should follow so that it’s easy to read and appears professional.  

The first thing you should do is make sure you use a professional and appropriate email address. You don’t want to be using anything like guineapigcoral@hotmail.com as it suggests a lack of maturity, professionalism and seriousness. 

The format of your emails should include: 

• A subject line.
• A formal greeting - this should include the name of the person you are contacting where possible. If you don’t know their name you can opt for phrases like ‘Dear Hiring Manager’ or ‘Hello [insert company name]’.
• An introductory paragraph about who you are.
• A couple of paragraphs talking about your experience and what you’re looking for.
• A closing sentence with a signing off message, for example ‘look forward to hearing from you soon’. 

Example email:  

Dear [Insert Hiring Manager’s name], 

I’m looking for a role in [insert desired role] and was wondering if you have anything available?  

When studying for my GCSEs I gained team working and organisational skills, as I put a study plan in place that included study groups to ensure I met my revision targets and goals.  

I also learnt how to take responsibility for my own goals and actions, helping me communicate, plan and take initiative better within any projects and tasks I work on.  

I am more than happy to get involved with any opportunities but would love to work within content or social media creation if you have anything available. 

I look forward to hearing from you soon. 

Many thanks, 

[Insert your full name] 

Expressing interest via LinkedIn 

LinkedIn is another great way to get in touch with companies and see if any jobs are available. Through creating a LinkedIn account, you can message people directly to enquire about any job vacancies. 

When sending a direct message there are a few things you should consider, including: 

• You want to make sure you’re messaging the right person - look for hiring managers or managers within the team you’re hoping to work for.
• Check to see if you have any existing connections that could help you - if you already have a LinkedIn profile then checking your existing connections could help you find a job or introduce you to someone.
• Always be confident - when you’re writing a direct message to a potential employer you want to come across confidently in the way you write your message. Avoid saying things like ’sorry to bother you’, as it doesn’t showcase confidence and assertiveness.
• Get straight to the point - avoid asking questions like ‘how are you?’ and be direct as to what you’re looking for, as employers tend not to read long messages.  
• Ask for one thing - when writing a message to a potential employer it’s important to ask for one thing as it reduces the risk of an employer missing any information you’re looking for. Once the person you contacted responds you can ask more questions.
• Keep your message short, clear and concise - the shorter the message, the more likely it’s going to be read. Remember employers are extremely busy so keeping your messages short, clear and concise makes it easier for them to read it and get back to you as soon as possible.