Quick way to spot the difference? Check this table:
| Type | Definition | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Solicited | Sent in response to a published job opening | Apply for a specific advertised position |
| Unsolicited | Sent without a formal job posting | Express interest in potential future openings |
What’s the actual difference?
Solicited and unsolicited application letters serve completely different purposes.
When you send a solicited application letter, you’re responding to a job posting the company has already published. It’s a direct answer to an open position. An unsolicited letter? That’s a cold outreach—no job posting exists, so you’re pitching yourself preemptively to stay on their radar. The real difference isn’t about how well you write; it’s about whether the company has already announced they need someone.
How do you write each one?
Write solicited letters to match the job posting exactly; craft unsolicited letters to showcase potential value.
For solicited applications (when a job is advertised):
- First, verify the posting is real. Note the job ID, deadline, and required skills.
- Open your word processor and set standard margins (1 inch) and a clean font (11–12 pt Arial or Calibri).
- Build three tight paragraphs:
- Header: Your contact details, today’s date, the hiring manager’s name, and the company address.
- Opening: Name the exact job title and say where you found the posting.
- Body: Pick 3–4 achievements that line up with the job description.
- Closing: Ask for an interview and include your phone number and email.
- Save the file as “LastName_JobTitle_Solicited_YYYYMMDD.pdf”.
- Upload it to the application portal or email it exactly as the posting instructs.
For unsolicited applications (no posting):
- Dig into the company’s “Careers” page. Note their current hiring focus.
- Address the letter to the hiring manager or department head. If you can’t find a name, use “Dear Hiring Committee.”
- Keep it to four short paragraphs:
- Hook: One sentence on why you respect the company.
- Value: Highlight 2–3 transferable skills with numbers.
- Fit: Match two of your strengths to their culture or goals.
- Call to action: Ask for a 10-minute chat about future needs. Include your phone and LinkedIn.
- Save the file as “LastName_Unsolicited_CompanyName_YYYYMMDD.pdf”.
- Email it with a subject line like “Speculative Application – [Your Name], [Your Discipline].”
What if nothing happens after I send it?
Follow up politely after 10 business days to check on your unsolicited application.
- Send a quick email: “I wanted to confirm you received my unsolicited application. I’d love any advice on timing for future openings.”
- Drop a LinkedIn message: Keep it under 90 characters. Reference your original email subject and attach the same PDF.
- Adjust your tone to the company type: Start-ups like short messages; corporates prefer facts and figures.
How can I make sure my letters stand out?
Keep a reusable template, update your contact details twice a year, and check career pages monthly.
- Store a “master” cover-letter template on your computer. Swap only the first paragraph for each new job—always include the job title or company name.
- Every January, update your contact info and LinkedIn URL. Outdated details kill applications faster than typos ever could.
- Set a monthly reminder (first Monday of every month) to scan three target companies’ career pages. Apply within 48 hours of any new posting to beat the rush.
Need more help? Check The Balance Careers for tailored application tips and LinkedIn Help for messaging best practices.
