Letter of Introduction Examples and Writing Tips

Do you need to write a letter introducing yourself to a prospective employer, a networking contact, or a potential new client? A well-written letter of introduction can result in a valuable relationship, and help you find a new job or acquire a new client. Why and how should you send a letter, email, or LinkedIn message introducing yourself?

Over 80 percent of job seekers say that networking has helped them find a new job. However, this doesn’t mean that every networking success story involves a direct connection. Sometimes, it’s less about who you know, and more about who your friends know. A letter of introduction is one way to forge a connection with someone you would like to know.

There are two types of letters of introduction. In the first type, you introduce a connection to someone else you know. That someone might be a potential candidate for employment, or someone looking for career assistance.

In the other type of letter of introduction, you write to someone you haven’t met. You introduce yourself to ask them for a job referral or request assistance with a job search.

The most important tip to remember when writing a letter of introduction is to keep it short and to the point. The person you are contacting is a busy professional, and you want to get his or her attention right away.

First, include a quick introduction that explains who you are, or a short synopsis of the person you are introducing. Then, briefly describe what you would like to accomplish by sending your letter. Does the other person wish to apply for a job opening? Are you hoping to set up an informational interview for yourself? Be as clear as possible.

Conclude with a description of how the recipient of the letter can either get in touch with you or the third party. Make it as easy as possible for the recipient to respond.

When writing your letter, make sure the tone matches your relationship. If you are close friends, you can write in a slightly less formal style. However, if you are introducing yourself for the first time, make sure your letter is extremely professional.

In many cases, the letter can be sent via email, because that's the quickest and easiest way to connect.

This is a letter of introduction example for introducing two people. Download the letter of introduction template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

This type of letter is typically sent to someone you know well.

People often confuse a letter of introduction with other types of job search letters:

A cover letter is a document sent with your resume and other job application materials. Your cover letter serves as an introduction to your resume. Sometimes, you’ll mention a referral from a mutual acquaintance who told you about the job or passed on the hiring manager’s name. The letter explains why you are qualified for the specific job for which you are applying.

A referral letter is a letter you write to someone you don’t know following a lead by a mutual acquaintance. In the letter, you would begin by mentioning your common contact, and then make your request – perhaps you are applying to a job they have available, or you are looking to conduct an informational interview or learn about career opportunities.

A letter of recommendation is a letter written by someone who is familiar with your academic work or your job skills and can endorse your candidacy for a position. The letter would be addressed to the admission officer, department head or hiring manager, and would include specific skills and experiences that highlight your suitability for the position you’re applying to.