How to Write a Cover Letter for a Cold Application

A cold application is one you make not in response to a specific posting, but directly to a company you're interested in, essentially asking "do you have any open positions?" This kind of application requires a different approach than responding to a standard posting. This article covers how to write your cover letter in this situation.

When Does a Cold Application Make Sense?

• If there's a specific company you want to work for, but you don't currently see a suitable open position.
• If you think the company is in a growth phase and might open relevant positions soon.
• If you can reach someone inside the company through networking (see Networking on LinkedIn: How to Connect With the Right People).

How It Differs From a Standard Cover Letter

Focus on General Value, Not a Specific Posting

A standard cover letter responds to a specific posting's requirements, while in a cold application you explain the general value you could bring to the company.

Your Company Research Becomes More Critical

Since there's no specific posting, you need to use your own research to identify which areas the company might need to grow in (see How to Research a Company for Your Cover Letter).

State a Clear Role or Area

Instead of a completely vague "give me a job" message, clearly state what role or area you could contribute to:

"I've been following your company's growth in [a specific area/product], and I believe my experience in [your area of expertise] could contribute to that growth."

Sample Structure

"Hi [Name],

I've been following [Company]'s progress in [a specific development/product/news item] and I admire this vision.

With [X years] of experience in [field], I believe I could bring particular value to your team in [a specific area of contribution]. [A brief, concrete example of an achievement.]

Regardless of whether there's currently an open position, I'd welcome the chance to have a short conversation about how I might be able to contribute."

Keep Your Expectations Realistic

Cold applications generally have a lower response rate than applying to an open posting. That doesn't mean the strategy is worthless — a small number of well-targeted applications can produce a valuable opportunity over the long run.

Conclusion

A cold application calls for a different cover letter approach — one focused on a general value proposition to the company rather than a specific posting. In-depth company research and clearly stating your area of contribution increase the effectiveness of this kind of application.