Crafting an Effective Continued Interest Letter

Crafting a continued interest letter can be the difference between staying in the race for your dream school or job and falling off the radar. When institutions or employers put you on a waitlist, a continued interest letter is your chance to reaffirm your enthusiasm and qualifications. In this article, we’ll explore how to craft an effective continued interest letter, what to include, and provide some tips to increase your chances of success.

What is a Continued Interest Letter?

A continued interest letter is a formal communication sent to an institution or employer to express ongoing interest after being waitlisted or deferred. It’s an opportunity to reiterate your enthusiasm, highlight any new achievements, and reinforce why you are a perfect fit for the position or program.

Why Writing a Continued Interest Letter Matters

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When you’re waitlisted, you’re not out of the game yet. A well-written continued interest letter can tip the scales in your favor by showing that you’re committed and proactive. It demonstrates your eagerness and determination to be part of the organization or school.

Key Elements of a Continued Interest Letter

To maximize the effectiveness of your continued interest letter, ensure it includes the following elements:

1. Address and Greetings: Use the recipient’s name if possible. A personalized greeting shows you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested.
2. Statement of Continued Interest: Clearly state your ongoing interest in the program or position. Be sincere and enthusiastic.
3. Update on Achievements: Share any new accomplishments or activities since your initial application. This could be a new project, an award, or a relevant skill you’ve developed.
4. Reaffirmation of Fit: Reiterate why you are a great fit for the position or program. Highlight specific aspects of the organization or school that excite you.
5. Thank You and Closing: Express gratitude for the opportunity to be considered and for their time in reviewing your letter.

How to Structure Your Continued Interest Letter

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Opening

Start your letter with a polite greeting. If possible, address the letter to a specific person. For example, “Dear Admissions Officer’s Name” or “Dear Hiring Manager’s Name.”

Express Your Continued Interest

In the first paragraph, clearly express your ongoing interest in the program or position. Mention the specific program or job title to avoid any confusion. Be concise but enthusiastic about why you want to be part of their institution or company.

Highlight New Achievements

In the following paragraph, provide updates on any new achievements or experiences that strengthen your application. This could include academic accomplishments, work experiences, volunteer activities, or personal projects. Be specific and relate these achievements to the skills or qualities that the institution or employer values.

Reaffirm Your Fit

In the next paragraph, reaffirm why you are an excellent fit for the position or program. Use specific examples to demonstrate how your skills and experiences align with their needs. Reference any interactions or visits you had with the organization that inspired you. This personal touch can make your letter more impactful.

Closing

Conclude your letter with a thank you. Express gratitude for the opportunity to be considered and for their time in reading your letter. Use a polite and professional closing such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” followed by your full name.

Tips for Writing an Effective Continued Interest Letter

1. Keep It Concise: Aim for one page. Be clear and to the point.
2. Use Professional Language: Maintain a formal tone throughout the letter. Avoid slang or overly casual language.
3. Proofread: Spelling and grammatical errors can undermine your professionalism. Proofread your letter carefully, or have someone else review it.
4. Be Honest: Don’t exaggerate or fabricate achievements. Authenticity is crucial.
5. Follow Up: If you haven’t heard back within a few weeks, a polite follow-up email can reaffirm your interest and inquire about any updates.

Sample Continued Interest Letter

Here’s a sample continued interest letter to guide you:

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

Date

Recipient’s Name Institution/Company Name Department Address City, State, ZIP Code

Dear Recipient’s Name,

I am writing to express my continued interest in the specific program/job title at Institution/Company Name. I remain enthusiastic about the opportunity to join specific program/department and contribute to its ongoing success.

Since submitting my application, I have briefly describe any new achievements or experiences. These experiences have further developed my skills in relevant skills and have reinforced my passion for relevant field or interest.

I am particularly drawn to specific aspect of the institution or company, and I am confident that my background in your field aligns well with your needs. Optional: Mention any interactions or visits that inspired you.

Thank you for considering my application. I appreciate your time and am hopeful for the opportunity to contribute to your esteemed institution/company.

Sincerely,

Your Name

Conclusion

A continued interest letter is a valuable tool in your application arsenal. When crafted thoughtfully, it can showcase your dedication and make you stand out from the crowd. Remember to be sincere, update your achievements, and reinforce your fit for the position or program. With these strategies, you can enhance your chances of success and keep your application at the forefront of the decision-makers’ minds.

Good luck with your continued interest letter, and remember, persistence pays off!