SDSU: Prospecting Letters

The purpose of the prospecting letter is to introduce yourself to an employer for whom you would like to work, to pique their interest in you, and to generate an interview. Mass produced letters, sent to any and every employer in your field, are not effective. Prospecting letters are most effective when targeted toward employers you have identified from your research. Since you are not responding to a specific job vacancy, you must make it easy for the reader to see why their organization cannot survive without you!

Indicate your interest in the employer and identify your source of information.
Discuss your strongest qualifications. Focus on how they will fit in with the work environment and the organizational structure of the employer you are approaching.
Market yourself. Sell the qualities which will benefit the employer, such as motivation, enthusiasm, interpersonal skills, ability and willingness to learn.
Close with the suggestion of an action plan. Express interest in meeting and indicate that you will call to discuss the possibility of an interview. It is very important to then follow through with this step, since it will be an indication of your professionalism.
As always, express appreciation to the reader for their time.

Sample Prospecting Letter

Mr. Morton Selmer
Distribution Manager
Wearaway Jeans, Inc.
Blue Cloth Road
Denim, SD 00034

I have read about your company in publications such as The Wall Street Journal and NACE's Job Choices in Business, and am writing to inquire about employment opportunities in your management training program. My research into numerous companies in the retail industry reveals that your training program is one of the best in the business.

I will graduate in May with a major in Apparel Merchandising. My interest in retail management began in high school as a member of the Youth Achievers in Business, and has further developed through my studies and work experiences in college. As an intern for Megastore, Inc., I focused on gaining exposure to all aspects of retail management. This experience convinced me that this is the career for me. In researching retailers in the Midwest, it quickly became evident that Wearaway Jeans, Inc., is the leader with a strong market position, quality merchandise, and a reputation for excellent customer service. You offer the type of professional environment that I am seeking.

You will see from my enclosed resume that my education and experience fit well with the qualifications you expect in your management trainees. Having earned several commendations for excellent customer assistance, I have demonstrated the strong interpersonal skills and motivation required to build a successful career. I would be excited to bring these assets to Wearaway Jeans.

May I take the opportunity to talk to you about the employment possibilities with your company? I will call you the week of March 4 to discuss this further. If you should wish to reach me before that time, please call 000-000-0000.

Thank you for considering my request. I will look forward to speaking with you.