how do you write a speculative cover letter

Speculative cover letter examples

Speculative cover letters can be a proactive way to get your foot in the door and find jobs that haven’t even been advertised yet.

But with so much resting on this application, you need to use the space wisely to explain what type of role you’re looking for and what attracted you to their company.

Find out how to do that successfully with our expert advice and speculative cover letter examples in the guide below.

CV templates 

Speculative cover letter example 1

Build your CV now 

Speculative cover letter example 2

Speculative cover letter example 3

The example cover letters here should give you a good general idea on how your Speculative cover letter should be formatted and written.

The rest of this guide gives more specific guidance on how to create your own cover letter in this format, and even includes some templates you can copy and paste.

How to write a Speculative cover letter

A simple step-by-step guide to writing your very own winning cover letter.

Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message

When you send a cover letter with a job application, you should always write your message into the body of your email – or the body of the messaging system if you are sending via a job website.

Why do this?

Simply because you want to get your message seen as soon as the recruiter opens your application.

If you attach the cover letter as a separate item, this means the recipient will have to open it before they can read it – slowing down the process and potentially causing frustration along the way.

So, write your cover note in the body of your email/message to ensure you make an instant connection with the reader.

Start with a friendly greeting

To build an instant connection with the recruiter reading your cover letter, start with a warm greeting.

It should be friendly but not casual – keeping it professional at all times.

• Hi, hope you’re well
• Hi [insert recruiter name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Avoid overly formal greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very traditional companies.

How to find the contact’s name?

Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try these methods to find it.

• Check out the company website and look at their  About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
• Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.

Identify the role you are applying for

After you have greeted the recruiter, it’s important to state the job you are applying to.

Recruiters are often managing multiple vacancies, so they need to know exactly which job you are referring to.

Be as specific as possible and use a reference number if you can find one.

Here are some examples you can use;

• I am interested in applying for the role of admin assistant with your organisation.
• I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 4057393)
• I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
• I saw your advertisement for a trainee project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.

See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles

Highlight your suitability

The main purpose of your cover letter is to excite recruiters and make them eager to open your CV. And you achieve this by quickly demonstrating your suitability to the job you are applying for.

Take a look at the job adverts you are applying for, and make note of the most important skills being asked for.

Then, when you write your cover letter, make your suitability the focal point.

Explain how you meet the candidate requirements fully, and why you are so well suited to carry out the job.

This will give recruiters all the encouragement they need to open your CV and consider your application.

Keep it short and sharp

It is best to keep your cover letter brief if you want to ensure you hold the attention of busy recruiters and hiring managers. A lengthy cover letter will probably not get read in full, so keep yours to around 3-6 sentences and save the real detail for your CV.

Remember the purpose of your cover letter is to quickly get recruiters to notice you and encourage them to open your CV, so it only needs to include the highlights of your experience.

Sign off professionally

To finish off your cover note, add a professional signature to the bottom, stating your important contact details and information.

This not only provides recruiters with multiple means of contacting you, but it also adds a nice professional appearance to the cover letter, which shows that you know how to conduct yourself in the workplace.

Include the following points;

• A friendly sign off – e.g. “Warm regards”
• Your full name
• Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
• Email address
• Profession title
• Professional social network – e.g. LinkedIn

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Aaron Smith Customer service professional 075557437373 [email protected] LinkedIn

Quick tip : To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate document that you could copy in.

What to include in your Speculative cover letter

Here’s what kind of content you should include in your Speculative cover letter…

The exact info will obviously depend on your industry and experience level, but these are the essentials.

• Your relevant experience – Where have you worked and what type of jobs have you held?
• Your qualifications – Let recruiters know about your highest level of qualification to show them you have the credentials for the job.
• The impact you have made – Show how your actions have made a positive impact on previous employers; perhaps you’ve saved them money or helped them to acquire new customers?
• Your reasons for moving – Hiring managers will want to know why you are leaving your current or previous role, so give them a brief explanation.
• Your availability – When can you start a new job ? Recruiters will want to know how soon they can get you on board.

Don’t forget to tailor these points to the requirements of the job advert for best results.

Speculative cover letter templates

Copy and paste these Speculative cover letter templates to get a head start on your own.

I am writing to express my strong interest in any upcoming data engineering and analytics opportunities available at Intuita. Over the course of my 17 years of experience in IT, I have diligently supervised cross-functional teams and delivered data-driven solutions that have transformed various businesses.

While there may not be a specific job opening advertised at this time, I believe my computer science qualifications align perfectly with your commitment to informed decision-making and technological advancements. In my current role as a Data Specialist at Sphere Digital Ltd, I use tools such as Python, SQL, and Tableau to extract valuable insights from complex datasets, and subsequently translate these into actionable recommendations that positively impact the company’s performance.

Within the last 3 years I have successfully reduced the time spent on analysis by 25% through creating interactive visualisations, and lowered procurement expenses by 15% due to identifying cost-saving opportunities. I also developed automated dashboards that decreased report generation time by 50%.

I welcome the chance to discuss how my skills and qualification align with your organisation and would be keen to attend an interview when a suitable position becomes available.

Kind regards

Felicity Wright

Hello Roger

I read through your website and noticed that WSP is recruiting for a number of transport planning vacancies throughout the UK, and I am keen to offer my CV for any positions that come available in Hull.

As a results-oriented professional with a passion for optimising transportation operations and a strong background in logistics, I am enthusiastic about contributing my skills to your world-renowned organisation. Throughout my 10 years of experience in the industry, I have demonstrated my ability to optimise routes and ensure timely and cost-effective delivery solutions.

In my current role at DPD Group, I have implemented freight consolidation strategies that cut transportation expenses by 15%, coordinated with carriers in increases in on-time delivery performance by 25%, as well as introduced training programmes which boosted driver productivity by 35%. I firmly believe that my qualifications and past achievements align perfectly with your commitment to excellence in transportation services and continuous improvement.

Thank you for considering my application and I look forward to the possibility of joining your dynamic team when a vacancy arises in the future.

Sable Fernandez

Good afternoon, Miles

I am writing to show my interest in your upcoming opportunities as a landscape architect and consultant at Tyler Grange. As a creative and detail-oriented professional with a passion for transforming outdoor spaces into beautiful landscapes, I am eager to contribute my expertise to your organisation.

Over the course of 15 years in landscape architecture, I have demonstrated my ability to conceptualise and execute innovative projects, including urban design, public parks, greenways, and school gardens which align with clients’ visions and environmental sustainability. I believe that my qualifications and skills resonate perfectly with your establishment’s commitment to excellence in landscape design.

Some key achievements I have played a significant role in while at Atkins include, attaining a 98% on-time project completion rate for 7 straight years, as well as incorporating design practices and native plant selections that led to a 20% reduction in landscape maintenance costs. Furthermore, I generated £4M+ annually through client referrals and repeat business.

I am eager to discuss any upcoming landscape architecture vacancies in greater detail. Please feel free to contact me via email or by phone to schedule an interview.

Vincent Cowell

Writing an impressive cover letter is a crucial step in landing a Speculative job, so taking the time to perfect it is well worth while.

By following the tips and examples above you will be able to create an eye-catching cover letter that will wow recruiters and ensure your CV gets read – leading to more job interviews for you.

Good luck with your job search!

How to Write a Speculative Cover Letter

You may have spotted an employer that you’d love to work for, but they’re not currently hiring for any position that fits with your aspirations. Speculative applications can have great results, especially for those wanting to get an internship, work placement, apprenticeship or graduate job. You’ll need to be engaging, expressive and able to confidently discuss your skill to really have an effect.

Why Send a Speculative Cover Letter?

If you’re looking for a job within a competitive industry, you may need to be proactive with your job searches and job application as not all roles are formally advertised. Plus, if there’s a company that you think could provide you with your dream job, why not give it a shot? A speculative CV with an accompanying cover letter is a great way of connecting with recruiters or potential employers when they’re not advertising vacancies.

How to Start a Covering Letter

Before you think about sitting down and writing your covering letter, you’ll need to research the company. Even if you know a lot about the company, you’ll want to brush up on your knowledge in order to create a good cover letter.

Find out everything you can about the organisation, including its staff and also the wider industry they operate within.

Take a look through their website and also look for press releases as well as related news article to really find out what’s happening at their organisation. Make sure you look at their social media profiles and also look on websites such as Glassdoor for staff reviews on working there.

The more knowledge you have to start with, the easier it will be to write your covering letter. It’s this knowledge that will enable you to connect your skills, experience and interests to their company.

What to Include and what not to Include

The general formatting of a speculative letter will be relatively similar to a standard cover letter:

• Start with personal information such as your name, address and contact details. You should never include your national insurance number or bank details on your cover letter.
• Include information to your social media platforms such as Linkedin. There should be crucial information about your work experience on there and it will also enable them to get a better indication of your interests through shared articles and endorsed skills.
• Include the manager’s name if you have it, but if you don’t just use Dear Sir/Madam.
• Within the first paragraph, you should outline what type of role you’re looking for, and why you want to work for that particular company.
• The second paragraph should explain more about the skills you possess and any experience you have that could be of interest to them. There is no job description so you’ll have to be inventive on how your skill set may apply to their business.
• The closing paragraph is the last chance for you to make an impression. You need to tell them exactly why you’d be perfect for the company and what you could potentially contribute. If there isn’t an open job, why should they open one for you? what do you have that is different? this doesn’t always have to be your skills, genuine passion for the company and their values could be enough.
• To close the covering letter, thank them for their time and sign-off the cover letter with ‘Yours faithfully’)

The final thing to mention here is that you must ensure there are no spelling mistakes. This involves specific person names, product names and relations to the company especially. You can use a spell checker or Grammarly for the checking of punctuation and spelling, but they may not pick up branded names so you’ll need to double-check.

Get to the Point, Set your Tone & Don't Apologise

You might think that sending a speculative application and cover letter could come across as pushy or presumptuous by the receiver. In most cases this couldn’t be any further from the truth, HR teams are often impressed by this process as it shows passion, confidence and forthcomingness. It’s also worth mentioning that recruiting can be a timely and expensive process, so someone coming forth is a great way for them to avoid this.

What you absolutely shouldn’t do is open with anything apologetic such as ‘I hope you don’t mind me contacting you’. You need to be confident that you’re offering them something of value and apologising for contacting them doesn’t give that impression. A speculative application is verification that you’re an enthusiastic and proactive individual, rather than arrogant or presumptuous.

The best start to a speculative cover letter is one that gets straight to the point. HR teams and managers are busy people so avoid long-winded introductions and ones that are copied off the internet as they’ll have read it ten times already.

Quickly explain why you’re writing to them. Don’t just explain, demonstrate how you can benefit their company with key highlights from your CV. Keep to a formal layout and ensure all the points in the ‘What to Include and what not to Include’ section are covered. Make a mental note to keep the information condensed.

By now you’re likely wondering, how many words should a cover letter be? There really is no golden number, it’s about how many words it takes to really sell your worth to the company. The general guidelines are to stick to around half a page and definitely no more than one page.

We hope our guide has given you the knowledge you need to go and write an amazing speculative cover letter that lands you the position you desire. Remember the cover letter is the bait to get the HR team to read your CV, so make sure your CV is as good as your covering letter!

Ready to explore opportunities?

Keep reading.

Articles we think will help you ace your job search.

CV Tips for Creative Industries (Professionalism vs Personality)

If you’re hoping to launch a career in a creative industry sector, you’ll need a CV that showcases your creative skills as well as your experience and technical expertise.

How should you frame your work experience on your CV if you’re changing careers?

A concise, persuasive CV is key for landing any job role. But when you’re making a career change, getting it perfect is particularly important.

Preparing for a second stage interview

Going to a second stage interview can feel a little bit like reliving the same day again. You might think: ‘What more does this employer want to know about me that we haven’t already covered?

Our cookies do some cool things behind the scenes. They help us: Provide essential functionality Improve our site's performance Create a personalised experience just for you because you're one of a kind. See our cookie policy .

• Find a company

Crafting a compelling cover letter for hidden job opportunities

Jan 07, 2020 - updated Aug 27, 2024

Writer, editor and digital content specialist

You’ve found the perfect company. The team is experienced and dynamic, and the mission aligns with your values. You can see yourself there, contributing your skills to help the business succeed. But there’s a catch—there’s no open job that fits you. At least, not yet.

This is a common scenario in job hunting, but it doesn’t mean you have to move on. If you’re passionate about a company and believe you’d be a great addition to the team, it’s worth reaching out even if there isn’t a job posted. In the US, this is often done through cold emailing or submitting an unsolicited job application. This means contacting the company directly to express your interest and demonstrate how your experience and skills could benefit them.

Although an unsolicited job application might not lead to an immediate job offer, it’s an excellent way to make yourself known to a company and be considered for future openings. To stand out, how you present yourself is crucial—this involves crafting a strong cover letter and customizing your resume for the specific company and role. But before we dive into how to write that perfect cover letter…

Why bother with a spontaneous application?

The odds that a perfect role for you is just an email away are slim but a spontaneous application can be well worth your while.

The number of job vacancies never publicly advertised makes up such a large percentage of openings that there is even a name for this sector: the hidden job market . Certain companies, and even entire industries, are more likely to lean on private networks or referrals to fill available roles quickly, rather than going through a public job posting process. So there’s a high likelihood that the perfect role for you is out there, but not advertised.

More significantly, an unsolicited job application or a cold email is useful for making a positive introduction to a hiring manager for potential roles in the future. It gets your foot in the door, so to speak. It may also be an opportunity for you to sell yourself, your experience, and your knowledge of the company and its vision by suggesting to an employer that they need a role they simply haven’t yet thought of.

When should you send one?

If you’re applying for a position that is unlikely to exist yet, consider sending a spontaneous application in the discovery phase of a job search. This is when you’re interested in a new position but not actively in need of one. This way, you’re not placing too much faith in the application, and have plenty of time to create a long-lead introduction to the company .

It can also be helpful to pay attention to tech and business news, noting startup companies that have recently completed fundraising rounds. This is likely to mean that they will be hiring very soon.

How to write an accompanying cover letter

When you’re writing a cover letter for a cold email or unsoclicited job applicaiton, you won’t have a specific job description to guide you. This can be frustrating because it’s more difficult to clearly explain how your experience and skills fit a particular set of requirements without a framework. However, it can also be liberating, allowing you to be broader in your personal pitch.

The main idea, as with any cover letter, is to sell your expertise, your knowledge of the company and your belief that you have what it takes to help their business succeed. While the body of your email should be crisp and digestible, your cover letter is where you can make the most compelling case for your candidacy.

Even though there is no bullet list of job duties that you can reference, you can infer from the company’s products and services what your work there might involve. After, you can elaborate on how you would excel by using specific examples from your past experience as a reference.

Here are a few tips specific to unsoclicited cover letters:

Be as concise as possible while still clearly detailing your experience and ambitions. Because your application is spontaneous, a manager’s attention span when reviewing it will probably be even shorter than normal.

Be specific in describing how you could help the company, and what kind of position you would like. The narrower your goal, the more convincing it will be that you are a focused applicant, and not someone fishing for any available job.

Include examples of your past work , if relevant to your industry. Do this either in the form of a link to a professional portfolio website or as a separate attachment that you can reference in your email.

Email a specific person by searching through Welcome to the Jungle, or other recruitment websites and tools such as LinkedIn. This will make sure that your message reaches the right person and is (hopefully) read.

Ask for a recommendation , if you happen to have anyone in your social or professional networks who works, has worked, or knows anyone at the company to which you’re applying. Having a personal introduction can make all the difference, especially if said person is able to vouch for your abilities and your work ethic.

The waiting game

Next comes the hard part: being patient. It’s best not to expect any news, and certainly not straight away. You may not hear back after sending the cold email at all. The company might simply not respond to these types of applications. Even if you made a good impression, it may be months before a role is open that fits your experience. In such cases, you can follow up with a friendly email.

Give it at least two weeks before following up on your first email, and then leave any subsequent unsolicited contact to once every few months. Any more than that, and you risk seeming less like an interested and passionate candidate, and more like a nuisance.

Despite the uncertainty, cold emailing is still an exercise well worth doing. Jobs, as with life, are uncertain—a unique combination of the right place, the right time, and more than a little bit of luck. Your application may not lead anywhere productive. But whereas the downside is nonexistent, the upside holds huge untold potential. Who knows? It might just end up with you landing your dream job.

Photo by Thomas Decamps for Welcome to the Jungle Follow Welcome to the Jungle on Facebook , LinkedIn , and Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter to get our latest articles every week!

More inspiration: Creating a winning job application

Create a winning job application with these tips on resume and cover letter writing, job application strategies, and job application best practices.

Resume writing: 7 details to include before you shoot your shot

You've found the ideal job ad and are ready to apply—that's great! But before you hit "send," make sure you've got these key details on your resume.

Feb 07, 2023

The language of the job hunt: resumes and job applications

It can take some time to master the vocabulary of the job hunt. What do these terms mean and what's the difference between them? Let's find out.

Sep 07, 2022

Writing a cover letter: ditch the dull templates!

How many times have you searched "cover letter templates" on Google? Well, it's time to stop! Use your voice and share your originality.

Jul 12, 2022

The power of words: elevating your resume to promote your experiences

Good words are worth much and cost little. So how can you use them effectively on your resume to catch the attention of the recruiter?

Jun 30, 2022

Maximizing your resume's impact: aligning your skills with job descriptions

By tailoring your resume and cover letter to each job offer, you're more likely to attract the recruiter's attention.

Jun 23, 2022

The newsletter that does the job

Want to keep up with the latest articles? Twice a week you can receive stories, jobs, and tips in your inbox.

Looking for your next job opportunity?

Over 200,000 people have found a job with Welcome to the Jungle.

What Is a Speculative Cover Letter?

Who should i send my speculative cover letter to, what to include in a speculative cover letter, example speculative cover letter, what happens next, tips for writing your speculative cover letter, final thoughts, how to write a speculative cover letter.

Updated October 11, 2023

All products and services featured are independently selected by WikiJob. When you register or purchase through links on this page, we may earn a commission.

A speculative cover letter is sent to apply for or enquire about a job that is not currently being advertised.

You should consider making a speculative job application if you are:

• Actively looking for a new job role
• Trying to find a work experience placement
• Thinking about making a career move

To find out which jobs fit your personality best, visit our partner CareerFitter and take the Career Test for FREE .

Get An Expert Cover Letter

Sending a speculative job application can be an effective way to show you are keen, motivated and committed to your career goals .

Remember, even if the company you send your speculative cover letter to doesn’t have any current job vacancies, opening a dialogue with them could help to ensure you are at the top of the list when a suitable vacancy comes up in the future.

Much like a standard cover letter , a speculative cover letter accompanies your CV when you are applying for a job. However, a speculative cover letter is different from a standard cover letter in a few ways.

Standard cover letters are usually sent when applying for an advertised vacancy and should be tailored to that vacancy. In contrast, a speculative cover letter is sent to apply for a job that has not been advertised.

Standard cover letters need to be highly focused on niche or specialist skills that are outlined in a job description or person specification.

In contrast, a speculative cover letter should:

• Give details of your relevant transferable skills
• Outline your past work experience
• Demonstrate why you would be a good fit for the company

As with any cover letter, a well written speculative cover letter will provide you with the opportunity to engage with the recipient and start building up a positive rapport.

Where possible, try to send your speculative job application to a particular person, rather than a generic department.

If you are not sure of the name of the person you should send your speculative cover letter to, have a look at the employer’s website. Try to find out the name of the manager for the department you are interested in working for.

Alternatively, you could call the HR department to find out the name of the department manager.

Sending your speculative cover letter to a specific person will help to ensure your letter is read by the most appropriate employee or department. It will also show that you have carried out some background research into the company and its current employees.

You can choose to send a speculative cover letter by email or by letter. The advantage of a letter is that it will land on somebody’s desk, making it harder to ignore.

Your speculative cover letter will need to be both engaging and informative.

As you are not writing to apply for one particular job role, you will need to provide an overview of the skills and experience that you have gained so far. A speculative job application aims to show the employer that you are a good all-rounder, not just a specialist in one single area.

Whilst a speculative cover letter is not tailored to a particular job role, it will need to be written specifically for an employer. So, if you are planning to send out more than one speculative job application, you will need to adjust each letter accordingly.

A speculative cover letter will need to include the following information:

A brief outline of the type of job role you would be interested in applying for

Information on your existing skills and experience and how these could be of benefit to the business

An outline of the reasons why you would like to work for the business

A closing summary to reiterate what you would be able to offer to the business

An assertive, confident call to action to end the letter; for example, ‘I look forward to hearing from you soon’, instead of, ‘I hope to hear from you soon’

When writing your speculative cover letter, try not to repeat the information contained within your CV.

Don’t forget to include your name, address and contact details (including your mobile telephone number and email address).

If you are unable to find out the specific manager’s name, start your letter with ‘ Dear Sir/Madam ’ and close it with ‘ Yours faithfully ’.

If you have managed to find a named person to send the letter to, you can start your letter with ‘ Dear [Name] ’ and close the letter with ‘ Yours sincerely ’.

Here is an outline of what your speculative cover letter should look like. This speculative cover letter template is for a person who wants to make an application to a legal firm.

Jane Laws 1 The Street Townford TR17 9NQ 01234 567891 [email protected] Mrs D Judge Legal Practice London W3 2QQ Dear Mrs Judge I would like to enquire whether you have any current administrative vacancies within your firm. Please find enclosed my CV, which outlines the experience I have gained during my career to date. Having worked as a legal secretary for the past five years, I have demonstrated my commitment to providing high-quality legal administration services. I have a sound working knowledge of industry terminology and legal working practices. I am proud that my dedication and commitment to my work has been recognised through a recent nomination for the Institute of Legal Secretaries and PAs ‘Legal PA of the Year Award’. My experience to date has been gained through working for two small legal practices. While this has been both challenging and enjoyable, I would like to develop my skills and experience further in a fast-paced, busy role. I understand your company is one of the largest legal practices in London with continuing plans for growth, making it the ideal place to pursue my future career objectives. As an administrative worker for your firm, I would strive to support your partners with high-quality secretarial support. I am a competent typist with a keen eye for detail and a proven ability to cope under pressure at all times. I would be delighted to have the opportunity to discuss my application with you in further detail. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Yours sincerely Jane Laws

After you post your speculative cover letter, you will need to be patient. You probably won’t hear anything straight away but, hopefully, the recipient of your letter will be in touch to discuss job vacancies you may be suitable for.

If you still haven’t heard anything back within two weeks, it is advisable to follow up with the employer directly, to check that they have received your letter.

If they say that they haven’t received it, ask them whether they would be happy for you to re-send it over to them. At this point, you could find out whether they would be happy for you to send it by email, as they will know to look out for it in their inbox.

Even if the manager says that there are no suitable vacancies available at the moment, you could still ask them to provide you with constructive feedback on your speculative job application. This will help you to improve any speculative applications you make in the future.

Step 1 . Do Your Research

Find out as much as you possibly can about the business you are planning to write to. For example:

• What is their mission statement?
• What are their values?
• What product or service do they provide?
• Who are their customers?
• Who are their main competitors?
• How many people do they employ?
• What are the must-have skills for employees?

The company website is a good place to start. You could also browse through relevant social media pages, press releases and industry-specific content like blogs or newsletters.

Use the information that you find to help you write your speculative job application. For example, if you already have a particular qualification or skill that they want all of their employees to have, make sure this is clearly stated within your application.

Or, if you find out that they are planning to expand or acquire another company, let them know if this is a process you have had experience with in the past.

Step 2 . Keep Your Speculative Cover Letter Short and Professional

It is important to keep your speculative cover letter short and to the point . Keep the content succinct and focused – doing so will help to ensure the recipient reads it and digests the information it contains.

A letter that is too long will probably end up in the waste paper bin before it has even been read.

To ensure your letter makes a good first impression, set it out formally, use an easy-to-read font (such as Calibri or Arial, size 11 or 12) and write a maximum of five short paragraphs.

Step 3 . Proofread

When making speculative job applications, your cover letter is the one opportunity you have to make a good impression. If the text is littered with spelling and grammar errors, this is unlikely to make the manager want to call you to discuss a potential job opening.

Make sure you proofread your letter thoroughly, and ask a friend or family member to check through it too.

If you are looking for ways to progress your career, there is no need for you to wait for the perfect job vacancy to be advertised online.

You have nothing to lose and everything to gain by sending out a speculative job application. After all, your employer of choice could be just waiting for somebody with your skills and experience to make contact with them.

By sending a speculative job application to your preferred employers, you will show them that you are confident, enthusiastic and willing to go the extra mile to achieve your career objectives.

Don’t forget, a speculative cover letter aims to show the employer why you would be a great addition to their existing team. Ensure your application gives an overview of your existing qualifications, skills and experience, and how this could help the business to achieve its goals.

You might also be interested in these other Wikijob articles:

Or explore the Application Advice / Job Applications sections.

• CV writing services
• Accessories
• About PurpleCV
• Meet the team
• PurpleCV Reviews
• Social Impact

How To Write A Speculative Cover Letter With Template

Wondering how to write a speculative cover letter?

A speculative CV with an accompanying cover letter is a way of connecting with employers when they’re not advertising vacancies.

Speculative applications can have great results, and can also be an effective way of  getting internships or work placements .

Lots of positions are filled without ever being advertised, so a speculative letter could be your way in.

Here’s how to write a speculative cover letter that strikes the right tone and helps you get your foot in the door.

We’ve also written a speculative cover letter template to show how to format and write your letter – this can be found at the bottom of the blog.

Start by researching thoroughly

Once you’ve found an organisation you’d like to work for, the first thing to do is  research it thoroughly .

Find out everything you can about the organisation, its staff and the wider industry it operates in.

Most of the information you’ll need will be readily available from online sources, including:

• The organisation’s website
• Press releases published by the organisation
• Its LinkedIn page and social media profiles
• News articles relating to the organisation
• Industry-specific publications, newsletters or blogs
• Review sites like  Glassdoor

The more knowledge you can arm yourself with, the better you’ll be able to work out how your skills, experience and interests could benefit the organisation, and how you’ll be the perfect fit for the company.

And remember, when writing a speculative cover letter, accuracy is key.

Misspelling the name of the organisation, its products or services or the addressee (ultimately the decision maker) could spell disaster for your speculative letter.

Know who you’re talking to

Research the organisation’s staff list carefully to find out who to address your letter to. This may be:

• The managing director, if it’s a smaller firm
• A head of department
• The hiring manager
• A member of the HR department

It’s absolutely crucial that you address the letter to a specific person. ‘Dear Sir or Madam’ or ‘To whom it may concern’ won’t score you any points, especially if they have their name in their email address.

Mention early on or at the end of the letter that you’ve attached your CV to the email, to encourage the reader to look at this after the cover letter.

Strike the right tone

It can be hard to judge how to write a speculative cover letter and what tone to use. In our opinion, it’s best to opt for a formal tone. You don’t know the person, so don’t be over-familiar.

Open with ‘Dear [person’s name]’, and avoid any informal chit-chat like ‘I hope you had a good weekend’. Keep your tone friendly but professional throughout, and close with ‘Yours sincerely’.

SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER HERE

By subscribing to our newsletter, you agree to our Ts and Cs .

Don’t apologise

You might think sending a speculative CV and cover letter will come across as pushy or presumptuous – but hiring managers are unlikely to see it that way.

Don’t be tempted to start with something apologetic like ‘I hope you don’t mind me contacting you unsolicited’.

There’s no need to apologise – a speculative application is evidence that you’re  enthusiastic and proactive , rather than arrogant.

Get straight to the point

If you’re wondering about how to start a speculative cover letter, our top tip would be: get to the point!

Hiring managers are busy – so don’t waste their time. Too many speculative cover letters suffer from long, repetitive introductions,  clichéd language  and wordy explanations that are unlikely to be read.

Cut to the chase straight away. Say why you’re writing, and demonstrate how you can benefit the organisation with a few  key highlights from your CV .

Get that cover letter written by us!

Cover letter, format your cover letter appropriately.

A formally laid out cover letter is likely to have a better chance of succeeding. Put your name, address and the date on the right at the top, and the addressee’s details on the left starting on the line below.

The purpose of a speculative job letter is to get the hiring manager to look at your CV – so give them a reason to read it with three or four solid points straight off the bat.

You could format these as bullet points to make them even easier to read.

Keep paragraphs short and snappy and try to keep your letter to around half a page, and definitely no more than one page.

Focus on the employer

When writing a speculative cover letter, you should say as much (if not more) about the organisation you’re writing to as you do about yourself.

Try not to start every paragraph with ‘I’. You want to communicate what you can do for the organisation and why you want to work there, so try to evidence the knowledge you gained through your research.

What challenges and opportunities is the organisation facing? Try to focus on the person reading the letter and their priorities, and give a few examples from your experience that show how you can meet them.

Avoid the hard sell. Some sources recommend ending with something like ‘I’ll be calling you next week to schedule an interview’, but this pushy approach may backfire.

End simply by expressing that you’d like the opportunity to continue the conversation. Specify how the hiring manager can contact you (by phone or at your email address, for example) followed by ‘I look forward to hearing from you’.

As always, check, check and check again for typos and grammatical errors. Get someone else to proofread it for you if you can.

If you don’t hear anything within a couple of weeks, it’s a good idea to  follow up by email or phone . This will show perseverance and a real desire to work for the organisation.

It’s also an opportunity to ask for constructive feedback if you weren’t successful.

Speculative cover letter template

Below is an annotated speculative cover letter example to give you an idea of how to format and write the letter:

How to write a speculative cover letter: a summary

A speculative application can be a great way to engage with an organisation, and could get you one step closer to your dream job.

Even if the employer doesn’t have your perfect role open immediately, it could put you on their radar as someone to contact in the future.

We hope our guide has given you a better idea of how to write a speculative cover letter.

Remember, a cover letter acts as the bait to get hiring managers to read your CV – so make sure your accompanying CV is as good as it can be!

Need help crafting a kickass CV? Our tailor-made CVs showcase your best bits and set you head and shoulders above the job market competition.  Find out more .

Want to know more about how to write a good standard cover letter? Go back to basics with  these principles.  You can see some  examples of cover letters here , including a speculative cover letter example.

Cover Letter Writing Advice

CV Writing Advice

CV Writing Services

Interview Advice

Job Search Advice

Subscribe to our newsletter!

Related articles, what is a video cv and do you need one.

You may have heard about a growing trend in job hunting – making a video CV. So what is it,... Read more...

Guide To Updating Your LinkedIn Headline

Do you know what your LinkedIn headline is and how to update it? Most importantly, do you know how to... Read more...

How To Write A Management CV

If you’re unsure about how to write a management CV, we’ll explain all you need to know in this guide.... Read more...

Soft Skills: What They Are And How To Highlight Them

One of the most common questions we receive is: “What are soft skills?” And perhaps more importantly: “Can you give... Read more...

What Is Hybrid Working? Our Expert Thoughts

These days when you’re reading through job descriptions, you’ll often see a mention of ‘hybrid working’ - but what does... Read more...

What Are Group Interviews? Our Expert Tips On How To Succeed

Here’s a common scenario - you apply for a job and the employer invites you to a group interview. What... Read more...

Guide To Creating A Great Marketing CV + Example

Wondering what the secret to a great marketing CV is? We’ll share our top tips with you in this guide.... Read more...

Career Change At 40: How To Thrive In Your New Career

A career change at 40 is a life-changing decision.  Whether you have discovered a new passion for teaching, finance, or... Read more...

Working From Home Tax Relief

Want to know if you qualify for working from home tax relief?  So, you’ve got your professionally written CV, nailed... Read more...

12 Highest Paying Jobs In The UK

Job satisfaction, work life balance and salary are key criteria for most employees - and if the latter matters to... Read more...

How To Write A Retail Assistant Cover Letter That Gets Read

Don’t overlook the importance of a well-written cover letter for a retail assistant job. According to CareerBuilder, 45% of job... Read more...

How To Add Certifications To Your LinkedIn Profile

Many specific occupations call for particular certifications and abilities, and one of the ways you can highlight these is by... Read more...

How To Write A Career Change Cover Letter That Gets Read

By Ian Taylor, CV-Library Even if it’s not required according to the job advertisement, a cover letter is always a... Read more...

How To Find The Right Job For You & Kickstart Your New Job Search

By JobLookup When you decide to look for a new job, the temptation is to jump straight in - revamp... Read more...

How To End A Cover Letter: Examples Of The Perfect Cover Letter Ending

Your CV is up to date, tailored to the job spec – and triple proof-read. However, if you’re sending off... Read more...

How To Address A Cover Letter With Real Life Examples

Crafted a tailored job application that shows you’re perfect for the role? There’s one last step to impress employers -... Read more...

How To Write A CV With No Experience

You may be wondering what to write in a CV if you have no experience in the industry you’re applying... Read more...

How To Write A Supporting Statement For A Job Application With Template

Wondering how to write a supporting statement and just what makes one different from a cover letter? The purpose of... Read more...

How To Write a Cover Letter For An Internship

Unsure how to write a cover letter for an internship? We’ve got you covered. It can be tricky knowing how... Read more...

Using LinkedIn For Job Searching: How Social Media Profiles Can Help You Find Employment

Social media sites have soared in popularity over the last decade, with platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn proving... Read more...

9 Common LinkedIn Mistakes You’re Probably Making

LinkedIn can be an invaluable tool for making professional connections and searching for jobs.  Research by Jobvite showed that 87%... Read more...

Test Your Vocabulary With PurpleCV’s New Online Quiz

Wordsmith wannabes, listen up! 2019’s newest additions to the Oxford English Dictionary have been announced and we've got a test... Read more...

How To Write A Cover Letter That Makes You Stand Out

You’ve been trawling jobs boards and LinkedIn – and the job description sounds perfect. You’ve managed to avoid these common CV... Read more...

Networking Tips For Introverts: How To Work A Room Of Strangers

The prospect of networking can be daunting for anyone, not least for introverts. Walking into a room full of strangers... Read more...

How To Use LinkedIn To Find A Job: Seven Top Tips

Why should I use LinkedIn to find a job?  According to recent reports, there are now more than 500 million users... Read more...

Getting Back Into Work After Long Term Unemployment

Getting back into work after long term unemployment (or even a career break) can seem like a daunting task. Whether... Read more...

How to Find A Job Through Networking: 5 Steps To Success

Have you ever wondered how to find a job through networking? We’ve all heard the phrase ‘it’s not what you... Read more...

Beating Job Search Stress: 3 Things You Need To Stop Worrying About

This blog contains affiliate links (marked with a *) – meaning we may receive commission if you get a product... Read more...

7 Job Search Mistakes That Are Hurting Your Chances

Searching for a job can be an arduous process, and it can become demoralising if it goes on for a... Read more...

How To Really Sell Yourself In Your Personal Statement

The personal statement is often considered the most challenging part of a CV to write. The perfect personal statement should... Read more...

How To Use Social Media To Boost Your Job Hunt

Over the last few years social media has become a significant presence in our lives . Most of us use... Read more...

6 Ways To Stay Positive While Job Hunting

We’ve all been there: day after day spent filling in job applications, an inbox full of polite rejections, the odd... Read more...

The Importance Of A Cover Letter

Have you ever heard the expression “Put your best foot forward”? When it comes to potential employment, such a practice... Read more...

A Guide To Online Job Boards

Looking for a job online can be daunting. There appear to be thousands upon thousands of current vacancies in your... Read more...

The Importance Of A LinkedIn Profile

Everyone’s on social media these days, from Facebook to Twitter and Myspace, it’s a great social convenience for those who... Read more...

How To Write A Stand-Out Graduate CV And Cover Letter

Wondering how to make a stand-out graduate CV and cover letter? So you’ve come out of the other side of... Read more...

The Basics Of A Cover Letter

Getting the basics of a cover letter right is essential if you want to ensure you are seriously considered for... Read more...

🍪 Cookie consent

We value your privacy! Please take a moment to customise your cookie preferences. By clicking 'Submit' you agree to the use of cookies as described below:

• Search Jobs

Career Exploration , CV Improvement Tips , How To

How To Write A Speculative Cover Letter With Winning Examples

Photo on  Unsplash

In the current economic climate, being proactive in your job search is more important than ever. Don’t wait for a company to come to you with an offer. It might never happen! We’ll provide tips on writing a speculative cover letter and convince employers that you’re worth their time and consideration.

A speculative cover letter is when you write and send it to an employer before advertising any specific position. This type of cover letter can be used in many different situations, for example:

– Someone who is unemployed but wants to find work may choose to write a speculative cover letter and send it out

– A person who has been laid off may use this type of cover letter while they are looking for new employment

– A recent graduate might also use this type of application as their first job hunt step

The purpose of a speculative cover letter is to show an employer how you might fit into their organisation. In addition, you can use the cover letter to explain why your skills are transferable and what type of work you would be interested in doing for that company. Your goal should be to stand out from other applicants by showing them some unique things about yourself that they may not be able to see from your resume.

The steps for writing a speculative cover letter are as follows:

– Find the name of an employer you want to work with and contact them directly

– Send in your best application materials, such as a CV or resume and any other supporting documents that demonstrate why you would make a great candidate for the company

– Use a cover letter to introduce yourself and show why you are interested in that particular employer

– Include your contact information on both the CV and resume as well as in the cover letter, so they can reach out if necessary

– Be willing to go above and beyond what other applicants may do

– Be enthusiastic about the company or position you are applying for

– Make sure your cover letter is well written with clear sentences that clearly state what type of job you are interested in doing

A typical speculative letter needs to follow the following steps

1. Introduce yourself

2. Explain the position you are applying for

3. Outline your skills and experience that relate to the position

4. State why you would be a good fit for the company

5. Give an example of how you have demonstrated these qualities in previous jobs or volunteer positions

6a) If there is any specific information they want, include it here

6b) If not, end with “I look forward to hearing from you soon.”

7) Thank them for their time and consideration

What is the difference between a cover letter and a speculative letter?

A cover letter is typically written to accompany an application or resume and provides information about the applicant. A speculative letter is a type of cover letter that may be sent before any position has been advertised — this can often help someone who does not have a job find work faster.

How do you start a speculative cover letter?

First, keep your letter concise. Most hiring managers don’t have time to read a lot of content on an unproven candidate. So start with the basics and avoid being too wordy or flowery in your writing. The goal is not to win over a company you know nothing about but to impress them enough so they’ll want to learn more.

Second, you need a strong opening. Many speculative cover letters open with the standard “I am writing in regards to your job posting for X.” This is good but not great. Suppose you are applying to multiple jobs or even one specific organisational role. In that case, it’s better to point out why they should hire you specifically and how your skills and experience will benefit the company.

Third, don’t forget to highlight your enthusiasm for the role. Why are you writing this letter? What do you hope to achieve by sending it? Would you mind demonstrating that you’re excited about their organisation and why? Lastly, make sure it is personalised! This may require research, but having an extensive company profile shouldn’t be too hard. If you don’t know much about the organisation, try to dig on LinkedIn or do a simple Google search.

Of course, other things make up a tremendous speculative cover letter, but these three are good places to start!

Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash

Are speculative job applications worthwhile?

There’s no doubt that they can be a bit of a gamble. You’ve got to put your faith in the company you are applying for and hope that it matches what their needs are at this time. However, I would say that if you have used it before (and haven’t heard back), then why not give it another go? Every company is different, so it’s always worth taking a punt.

Using speculative applications is an excellent way to determine what the company does and how you can fit in. However, it’s also crucial that your CV reflects this because you need to show them why they should be interested in hiring you. So, for example, you could include links to work samples or contact details for people who have worked with you before.

Speculative applications are an excellent way to get your foot in the door and allow you to find out more about what they do. Still, you must ensure your CV reflects this so they know why they should hire you. It might be worth including links to work samples or contact details for people who have worked with you.

An example speculative cover letter:

Dear Mr Smith,

I am writing to introduce myself and tell you about my qualifications as a potential candidate for the Marketing Manager position at Acme Corp. I understand that this is not an advertised opening. Still, I wanted to take the time to apply anyway because your organisation has always been one in which I have taken great interest.

My background includes 11 years of experience in marketing and advertising with a large company and my work on entrepreneurship projects. I am confident that my skill set would be an asset to your organisation given the requirements outlined in this position description, such as:

-Strong understanding of digital media, including social media channels and blogs

-Experience with managing external agencies and creative teams

-Ability to oversee campaigns in various languages

I have attached my resume for your review. I hope you will consider me a candidate, even if this is an unadvertised opening. Thank you very much for taking the time to read this letter.

Some Examples addressed for specific roles

An example speculative cover letter for entry level software engineer:.

Dear Hiring Manager,

My name is _____, and I am currently looking for entry-level opportunities in software engineering. After reading about your company on __________, I was excited to learn more about how my skill set could be a good fit within this environment. In addition to learning more about your open position as a software engineer, I am also interested in learning more about the company itself. Would you be willing to answer a few questions for me?

Are there any other positions within __________ that may be appropriate for someone with my skill set looking for their first position?

What is the company culture like at __________, and how does it support its employees to be successful in a professional environment?

The software engineering positions you are currently hiring for sound very interesting. Is there anything else about these roles that may make them more appealing than other entry-level opportunities I have seen on job boards?

Name ___________

Contact info: email address and phone number. GitHub username if you have one.

The hiring manager will then decide whether or not to respond with an interview opportunity! If they get back to you, go ahead and send them a follow-up thank you an email that is much briefer than this.

An example speculative cover letter for an accountant:

While doing some research, I came across your listing for an accountant on the Careers section of the company’s website. I am very interested in this position because it perfectly fits my background, skillset, and career path. With over three years of experience in finance at another company, I am confident that my skills and qualifications would make me an excellent fit for this job.

I believe the key to success in any position is doing your best at all times, learning as much as possible about your role, and taking pride in everything you do. With strong attention to detail, willingness to learn new things quickly, and ability to multitask, I am confident that my background as an accountant would make me a great candidate for this role.

It would be a pleasure to learn more about this opportunity and demonstrate how my skills make me the best candidate. I have attached my resume for your review as well. Thank you very much in advance, and I look forward to hearing from you soon!

John Smith (123) 456789101

An example speculative cover letter for the mechanical engineer:

Dear Hiring Manager, I’m excited to express my interest in the Mechanical Engineer position at your company. After scanning your website and learning more about IVALA Robotics, it’s clear that you have a very dynamic team that complements my skill set and career goals perfectly. This intersection of interests is precisely why I’m writing to you today.

The skills I’ve acquired as a mechanical engineering student at [university name] will allow me to hit the ground running in my new role. In particular, I have strong technical and communication abilities — an ability your job posting highlights as one of the essential qualities for this position. Additionally, I would prove a solid asset to the Mechanical team at IVALA Robotics if hired.

I would very much appreciate an opportunity for a conversation. Please be assured that you will find me both confident in my abilities and humble enough to learn new skills as needed . Thank you again for reading my application — I hope to hear from you soon!

Sincerely yours_

An example speculative cover letter for a nurse:

Dear Nurse Manager, My name is X, and I am an RN with __________ experience.

My skills in clinical care management combine the most critical aspects of nursing: patient assessment, planning and evaluation for treatment outcomes, implementation of care plan through delegation to healthcare team members, and coordination and communication between various caregivers. Furthermore, my leadership skills were honed by my active participation in _________, and I am a member of the American Nurses Association.

My goal is to work as a nurse manager at your hospital. This position aligns with my career goals, including working for an organisation that shares my commitment to excellence, professional development, collaboration across disciplines, and teamwork — qualities I have developed and demonstrated throughout my career.

I am confident that I can add value to the nurse manager team at your hospital, and I look forward to speaking with you further about this opportunity. Best, X

This is a speculative cover letter for an unadvertised job position in healthcare management. This cover letter example should be customised based on your skills and experiences.

An example speculative cover letter for a chef:

Dear Chef, I would love to work as a sous chef at X. My passion for food and cooking had driven me into this industry since my early teens when I began working in the kitchens of family friends’ restaurants after school. Now that I am graduating from college, I will take things more seriously with a full-time job. I love X’s menu and feel that my experience in the past few years as a sous chef at Y perfectly prepares me to make positive contributions immediately.

An example speculative cover letter for a teacher:

I am a recent graduate from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in education. While I was still working on finishing up my major, I began looking for teaching opportunities. As a result, I landed an internship with extensive classroom experience — it’s been great!

Now that I’m getting ready to enter the job market full-time, I’m eager to explore the possibility of working at your company.

I know from my research that you’re looking for someone enthusiastic about education. I can help students learn by incorporating technology into their learning environment. For example, I found it challenging in school to combine a love of teaching with an understanding of how technology could make those lessons more interactive.

That’s why I chose to pursue my education degree — to gain the knowledge and experience necessary to provide students with an engaging learning environment that incorporates technology in a way they can easily understand while also helping them develop the skills needed for success in future careers.

I’m confident you’ll find me a great candidate for this position because of my education and experience. Still, I’m also excited about the opportunity to learn from veterans in the field.

I look forward to hearing back from you regarding the next steps. Please get in touch with me at [email protected] or (555) 555–5555 if you have any questions.

An example speculative cover letter for an administrative assistant:

Dear Hiring Manager, I recently came across your job listing for a secretary role. Naturally, I am interested in this position and excited to submit my application materials today! While searching online, it appeared that we might have some interests in common — namely, the desire to work with an organisation with outstanding leadership and dedication to making all its employees feel valued and included. I believe this is a mission statement you can stand behind, as it aligns with your organisation’s core values of inclusivity, teamwork, accountability and transparency.

I am an enthusiastic administrative assistant with over five years of experience working across many industries, including finance, retail, travel, and hospitality. I am a skilled communicator who can adapt my language style to suit different audiences; I also have extensive experience managing projects and meeting deadlines for large-scale projects from start to finish. Finally, as an experienced secretary, I know how important it is for your team to rely on each other’s discretion and confidentiality. I take this responsibility very seriously, as it is essential to any business’s success!

In my current role at a large tech company, I have been tasked with coordinating travel plans for our executives across the country. This position has given me extensive experience in time management and multitasking efficiently under tight deadlines. In addition, since my role as the secretary to our CEO is quite demanding, I have also been able to develop new skills in managing multiple projects and prioritising tasks accordingly.

In addition to all of these experiences, I am looking for a career path that satisfies me professionally — something which I believe you will be able to provide! My resume and reference list are attached; please get in touch with me anytime. I look forward to hearing back from you soon!

Sincerely, John Smith

Notes: This is an example of a speculative cover letter for an administrative assistant position in the finance industry. It demonstrates the ability to communicate professionally and experience working on multiple projects.

An example speculative cover letter asking for any administrative job:

Dear Sir, or Madam, I am writing to you as a speculative applicant with no prior experience for the role advertised. My name is [your name], and I would be very interested in any job that suits my skill set of handling paperwork. While searching for jobs online tonight, this position caught my eye because of my skill set.

I can handle paperwork well and would be happy to help you in that work area if given a chance. I also enjoy working with computers and typing documents and emails because it gives me more time for other tasks. If you expect any correspondence from this letter or need anything else done, I would be happy to do that for you.

I look forward to hearing back from you shortly and hope I can start this job soon! Sincerely, [your name]

In conclusion, you can write a speculative cover letter tailored to the company’s needs and strengths. You can present yourself in an honest but confident way. It will also show how much time and effort you put into your application process, which may help land you an interview with this company!

Written by mrafeeq

How To Turn Down A Job Offer (Or Reject A Counter Offer)

How to make a great LinkedIn profile picture in under five minutes

Most Promising Jobs That Will Survive The AI Apocalypse

Leave a reply cancel reply.

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Forgot your password?

Lost your password? Please enter your email address. You will receive mail with link to set new password.

Back to login

• Terms And Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Editorial Policy

11+ Best Speculative Cover Letter Examples

When looking for a job, it’s important to stand out from the crowd. A great way to do this is by sending a speculative cover letter. This type of letter is not attached to any specific job opening, but rather sent to a company with the hopes of getting their attention. To make sure your letter stands out, be creative and use examples from the company’s work or website to show that you’ve done your research. Check out some of our favorite speculative cover letters below!

How To Write a Speculative Cover Letter?

A speculative cover letter is an approach tofinding a job where you get in touch with an employer to enquire about any upcoming vacancies, rather than responding to a specific job advert.

The key with a speculative cover letter is to research the company you’re contacting, so that you can demonstrate why you would be a valuable asset to their team – even if they don’t have any current vacancies.

To write a speculative cover letter:

• Start by doing your research
• Find the name of the contact person
• Write a compelling opening paragraph
• Outline your skills and experience
• Explain why you want to work for this company in particular
• Finish with a call to action.

If you follow these steps, you’ll be sure to write a speculative cover letter that will help you stand out from the crowd and get one step closer to landing your dream job.

Related: How To Write a Cover Letter (And Get Hired in 2022!)

Speculative Cover Letter Example

To Whom Is My Concern,

Writing in regards to any available positions that may be open at your company. I am very interested in obtaining a position and feel that I would be a perfect candidate.

Have experience in customer service, sales, and marketing. I am a people person and enjoy working with the public. I am also proficient in Microsoft Office programs and have basic knowledge of HTML.

It is a hard worker who is always willing to learn new things. I am also a team player and work well with others. I am available to start work immediately and can be reached at 555-555-1212 or by email at [email protected].

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Related: 5+ Attractive Prospects Cover Letter Samples

Speculative Cover Letter Template

I am writing to express my interest in joining your company. Based on what I know and have heard, I believe that your company is an excellent place to work, and I would be proud to be a part of it.

I am enclosing my resume for your review and would appreciate any opportunity to discuss my qualifications with you. I can be reached at ___________. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Related: 9+ Best Mechanic Cover Letter Samples & Templates

Speculative CV Cover Letter

The writing in regards to any upcoming opportunities that may be available your organisation. It keen to utilise my skills and experience in a new role and would welcome the chance to discuss my suitability for any positions that may arise.

Have attached my CV for your perusal and would be available for interview at a time convenient to you. I look forward to hearing from you in the near future.

Yours Sincerely,

Related: Executive Assistant Cover Letter: 05 Samples & Examples

Speculative Cover Letter Sample

To Whom Is My Concern, writing in regards to any possible job openings that might be available your company. I am a recent graduate of ___________ and I am very interested in working in the ___________ field. I have attached my resume for your review and I would appreciate any opportunity to discuss my qualifications further with you.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Related: 7+ Professional Event Planner Cover Letter Samples

Speculative Cover Letter To Recruitment Agency

The writing to you in order to inquire about any job openings that might be available or will be available in the near future. It a recent graduate of ___________ and I have extremely interest in working in the field of ___________. I have enclosed my resume for your review and I would greatly appreciate if you could keep me in mind for any suitable positions. I am eager to start my career and I am confident that I have the skills and qualifications that would make me a valuable asset to your company.

Related: Generic Cover Letter: 09 Samples & Examples

5 Things To Include In a Speculative Cover Letter

When applying for a job, it’s important to stand out from the crowd. One way to do this is to write a speculative cover letter. A speculative cover letter is a letter that you send to an employer in the hope of being considered for a role, even if there isn’t a specific job advertised. Here are five things to include in a speculative cover letter:

• Start by doing your research. Find out as much as you can about the company and what they do. This will help you to customise your letter and show that you’re genuinely interested in working for them.
• In the opening paragraph, explain who you are and why you’re writing. Be sure to mention any shared connections or common interests.
• The next paragraph should detail your skills and experience, and how they could benefit the company. Again, be specific and try to evidence your claims with examples.
• In the final paragraph, thank the employer for their time and say how you can be contacted if they’re interested in learning more about you. You could also include a link to your online portfolio or CV at this point.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your speculative cover letter makes a positive impression on potential employers and increases your chances of securing an interview. Good luck!

Related: What is Cover Letter? Complete Guide To Get any Job.

I hope you found helpful this blog post on speculative cover letters. It can be a great way to introduce yourself to a company and land an interview. If you’re feeling inspired, be sure to check out our other blog posts for more tips on job searching, writing resumes, and interviewing. And as always, good luck!

You may also like

Cover Letter for Ph.D. Application: 5 Template ideas

Customer Service Representative Cover Letter: 09...

Waitress Cover Letter: 07 Template Ideas

Computer Science Cover Letter: 05 Ready Template

9 Best Associate Cover Letter Samples [Free]

Creative Inspiring Cover Letters: 7+ Template

About the author.

Jessica William

Leave a comment x.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Protect your data

This site uses cookies and related technologies for site operation, and analytics as described in our Privacy Policy . You may choose to consent to our use of these technologies, reject non-essential technologies, or further manage your preferences.

• How to write a speculative...

How to write a speculative application for a job that isn't advertised

8 min read · Updated on October 25, 2022

A company may not be hiring, but you could still land yourself a job. Here's how.

The best-kept secret in finding a new role is the hidden job market . This means that while not all jobs are advertised, you can still apply for them by writing a speculative application.

In this article, learn all about the speculative job application - including what it is and how to write one.

What is a speculative application?

A speculative application, also known as a speculative CV, involves reaching out to a company and putting yourself forward for jobs that have not been advertised or do not exist right now. It usually involves sending a CV and cover letter via email or an online portal.

Applying “on spec” is the term used to describe sending a speculative job application. It's common practice for many industries too. If you're solely looking for job adverts to respond to, you could be missing out on opportunities in the charity, design, environmental, and media sectors, where applying on spec is commonplace.

Sending a speculative CV isn't limited to full-time roles either. Applying on spec can pave a direct route into a company that may reveal temporary or permanent work, contract work, internships, and graduate positions. 

Do speculative job applications work?

Speculative applications are worthwhile. They work particularly well for a variety of industries where applying on spec is commonplace, particularly in media, including journalism, broadcasting, publishing, TV, and film. However, they can be advantageous regardless of the field you wish to pursue. 

Sending speculative applications can grant you access to a wider pool of roles that you otherwise wouldn't have discovered. Taking a proactive approach can therefore increase your chances of job-hunt success.

And at the very least, you will have increased your business connections that may inform you of future work opportunities. 

How do you write a speculative application?

Writing a speculative job application takes a healthy pinch of creativity, logic, and determination. It's a little trickier than your usual application, as you have to assume the details of an imaginary job spec. However, it's not impossible. Here are five steps to follow:

1. Identify what your ideal job looks like

Before you start a speculative job application, reflect on what your current employment needs are and the type of job you are looking for. Remember, just because the job isn't advertised, it doesn't mean you can aim for a “dream job” you're not qualified to do. Consider a role that aligns with your experience, skill set, and career goals.

Once you have pulled together a vision of your ideal job, hunt for vacancies online and peruse the requirements. This will help to verify whether your abilities align with the type of job you're looking for.

2. Curate a shortlist of prospective employers

The next step involves drawing up a shortlist of employers to target. Start by considering the companies that interest you the most. This might be based on a bucket list of dream companies to work for, recommendations from friends or old colleagues, or even brand mentions in industry-related publications that have sparked your interest.

Then move on to look for companies based on their sector and location, to whittle down a shortlist of potential targets. While a simple Google search should reveal “marketing agencies in Bristol” and the like, you can also take to job boards, employer review sites, and professional bodies, which host company profiles to peruse with ease. 

3. Conduct background research

Once you've found the companies that meet your sector and location requirements, the next step is background research. This is to ensure that you're well informed about the company and get a feel for the type of work they do.

Start with the company's website. Look through the “About Us” pages, which will highlight the organisation's aims, employees, and values. Also, review the product and services pages and the blog to get a deeper understanding of how they make money, who their customers are, and the topics they care about. 

Most importantly, review the careers section of the website which should reveal details about life at the company and the current vacancies. This section should signal the areas where they are currently investing in headcount and at what level. Don't let it deter you if you can't find a vacancy for yourself. Instead, use them for inspiration. 

By reading through live job adverts, you'll pick up on keywords that are used in the company's recruitment drive, in addition to desirable traits they are looking for in applicants.

4. Find and establish a suitable contact at the company

It's essential that you find a personal contact at the company before making a speculative application. While an organisation may advertise on their website that they will welcome speculative applications, the email address will probably be related to a group inbox rather than a personal inbox, meaning it may be deprioritised. 

LinkedIn will likely be your best friend in this instance. Find out who the hiring manager is, or even the head of the relevant department. Browse their profile to gain an insight into their professional interests and position at work. If their work email isn't listed on their profile, send a short message to say you're looking to reach out and discuss potential work opportunities at the company and ask for the best email address.

Failing that, call the company to find out the name of the person in charge of recruiting and the best email address to reach them on.

5. Tailor your CV and cover letter to an assumed job spec

A tailored CV is a job-search essential. Even though you do not have a job description to reference, this shouldn't stop you from writing a bespoke CV. By using your research about the company, the sought-after traits listed in their live vacancies, and job specs from your earlier research related to your ideal job, you can craft a customised CV.

Pull out organisational values to subtly reference throughout your personal statement . Then, identify industry- and role-relevant keywords to add throughout your CV to highlight where your skill set lies and your relevant achievements. This will make it clear to the employer what you can do, the value you can bring to the company, and that you know what type of job you want.

Mirror the same level of personalisation and detail throughout your cover letter. The first paragraph of a speculative cover letter is slightly different to the standard cover letter for an advertised vacancy . In your introduction, instead of stating the role you're applying for, reference why you're approaching the employer. This is especially pertinent if you have an existing relationship with someone there. 

In addition, make it clear what type of role you're looking for by providing a concise and snappy description. If the employer believes you don't know what you're looking for, you may come across as disingenuous.

How do you send and follow up on a speculative job application?

When emailing your speculative application, use your cover letter as the body of the email and attach your CV. This is rather than writing a short email and attaching the cover letter and CV. Be sure to name the file of your CV with something descriptive, so that they can tie the file back to you. Your full name and ideal job title, followed by “speculative CV application” or similar should do the trick. 

Follow the same logic with the subject line, but note that you don't need to include your name as the recipient will see it in your email address.

Depending on the size of the company, it could take anywhere from a few days to a few months to respond. Some may not respond at all. As a rule of thumb, send a follow-up email no sooner than a week later to check in and see if they've had a chance to review your speculative application. Keep it light and friendly - after all, this could be your future employer. 

Speculative applications are tricky in comparison to applying to live vacancies, but you may hit the jackpot of jobs if it pays off. Be patient, open-minded, and proactive, and remember that, even if there isn't a role available right now, keep all doors open so you'll be in the front of their mind when there is.

Submit your CV for a free review to check that you've portrayed your abilities and achievements in the right way for a particular employer as part of your speculative application.

Recommended reading

Are a CV and cover letter the same?

How to use LinkedIn for your job search

How to sell yourself on a CV without sounding arrogant

Related Articles:

What FTC means in your job search – and for your career

Writing a 16-year-old's CV: tips & examples

Ultimate job reference letter template & example for 2024

See how your CV stacks up.

Career Advice Newsletter

Our experts gather the best career & CV tips weekly. Delivered weekly, always free.

Thanks! Career advice is on its way.

Share this article:

Let's stay in touch.

Subscribe today to get job tips and career advice that will come in handy.

Your information is secure. Please read our privacy policy for more information.

• Log in
• Site search

Speculative cover letter

Not all roles are formally advertised, and this is where speculative cover letters come in useful. With the help of our speculative cover letter example, you can create your own opportunities

Speculative approaches can be a great way of getting your foot in the door in competitive industries. They demonstrate dedication and a proactive nature and can give you an early start on your competition.

In the opening paragraph of a speculative cover letter explain what sort of role you're looking for. Then move on to show you've done your research by explaining why you're attracted to the company.

Next you need to talk about the skills and experience you have gained that are relevant to the company and the type of role you're looking for. It's best to show that you're an all-rounder so don't restrict yourself by focusing on one skill or area.

Finally, end on a positive note. Thank them for taking the time to read your application and that you look forward to hearing from them soon.

Please be aware that this is an example. Use this cover letter template to help generate ideas and structure your own document but avoid copying and pasting. Your cover letter needs to be original and tailored to the job you're applying for.

Anika Nawar 42 The Grove Grovetown CQ55 1WX [email protected] 07788123123

Julia Corning Graduate manager Media Company Business Shed Enterprise Street London SE1 J99

5th May 2023

Dear Ms Corning

I am a second-year media design student who is looking to gain some industry experience. I would like to do a summer placement/internship with Media Company and am writing to you to see what opportunities there are.

I know Media Company has a strong reputation in the industry. I was particularly attracted by the work you did for X Communications, which I came across during research for a university project. Your designs caught my eye and your understanding of the UX made our project flow well - and helped us achieve top marks for our year.

My website www.anikanawar.co.uk shows the range of my work, including a project for sportXperience.

As you can see from my CV I have attended industry events including:

• New Designers (Part 2) at the Business Design Centre, London, June 2022
• Young Designers Workshop Series, Manchester, 2020-2022
• Web Design Industry Masterclass, London 2021

These were a great opportunity to network with peers and meet industry experts.

Along with a group of other students, I have been instrumental in setting up a blog www.webX.com . We have run two online student events and are currently crowdfunding a live event.

I can offer Media Company my flexibility, excellent time management skills, entrepreneurial spirit and a willingness to work hard and learn quickly.

I look forward to having the opportunity to work with you.

Yours sincerely

(Sign your name here)

Anika Nawar

Find out more

• Get more information on cover letters .
• Learn more about the 5 things to avoid when writing a cover letter .
• To start your research on recruiters and what they offer visit our employer profiles .

How would you rate this page?

On a scale where 1 is dislike and 5 is like

• Dislike 1 unhappy-very
• Like 5 happy-very

Thank you for rating the page

• Student Discount
• Credit Card
• Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT)

• Six Month Certificate Programs
• Highest paying agriculture jobs
• Best paying jobs in industrial machinery/components
• Jobs that don’t require college
• Behavioral questions and answers for interviews
• Technical Interview
• Sample thank you email after interview
• You were fired on an application
• Kohl’s Job Application
• Baskin Robbins Hiring Age
• Subway Hiring Age
• Target Hiring Age
• Apply to hobby lobby
• Physiologist
• Environmental Consultant
• Maurices Credit Card Payment
• How can I pay my Verizon bill? Find the easiest ways!
• How to Pay my TJ Maxx Credit Card?
• How To Apply For Dicks Sporting Goods Credit Card?
• How Suddenlink bill can be paid?
• How to make Furniture Row credit card payment?
• Bed Bath & Beyond’s Credit Card Payment Process
• Netspend Atm
• Trial deposit Amazon Creditbuilder
• Transfer Money From EDD Card to a Bank Account
• Credit online shopping
• Transfer funds with Routing and Account Number
• Increase Total Loan Balance
• Bad Credit Loans Urban BCL
• Reduce Total Loan Cost
• Canceling Student Loan Debt
• Unsubsidized Student Loan
• Borrow money from a millionaire
• H&R block Emerald Advance
• Chevy offer 0 Financing
• Days Mortgage Approval
• Mortgage on 1 million
• Subscriber Id Insurance Card
• United American Insurance Provider Portal
• Unregistered Vehicle with Insurance
• Home Insurance Claim Adjuster Secret Tactics
• Agi renters condo insurance
• Walgreens accepted insurance
• Dentist that take caresource
• Redpoint county mutual insurance company
• Insurance walgreens accepts
• Cricket wireless insurance claim
• Stop paying child support
• Home depot health check
• Beat contempt of court for child support
• Medical Schools that don’t require mcat
• Social security Recipients Stimulus check
• Find 401k Social Security Number free
• Cash Advance Unemployment Benefits
• Laminate Social Security Card
• Ice Skating
• Tattoo Shops
• Verizon Store

Speculative Cover Letter

A cover letter is a bit like your personal statement on a UCAS application, but for a job. A speculative cover letter is the same, apart from it’s sent as part of a speculative application, along with your CV.

It’s a real chance to show yourself off to potential employers and demonstrate how your skill set fits their company.

This is therefore an opportunity to show yourself off in the best way possible and as open-endedly as possible – because you’re not applying for a particular job, you need to show how versatile you are as a candidate and highlight your key skills so that the company can look for places where you could add to their organisation. Tricky, huh?!

‘We never go out of style…’

There are some style rules that are pretty important when doing this. Because this is a speculative application, you need to make sure that your application is not going to be thrown out straight away.

What it therefore has to be is concise and interesting, well laid out and containing no spelling or grammar errors. Check, check and check again. You don’t want to lose out on the job of your dreams because you forgot to capitalise the name of the company you’re applying for.

Three or four paragraphs should be more than enough to show how great you are without boring your reader!

Keep good company…

Because you’re not applying for a specific role, you need to be extra keen on showing why the company appeals to you and how you’d be a good fit. Do your research! What is it in particular that attracts you to the company?

You need to also make sure that the tone of your letter is matched to that of the company – if it’s a formal, traditional organisation then match the phrasing of your cover letter to suit that – don’t go using colloquialisms and smiley faces!

Be content…

So what goes into the actual letter? First off, if it’s possible, find out the name of the person who this letter will go to – using someone’s name is far more likely to endear you to him or her than the standard Dear Sir/Madam.

It’s a simple trick, but one which you should always employ. Make sure the first paragraph outlines what you’re currently doing (University, School, etc.) and what you’re looking to do.

The next two paragraphs should highlight your key skills and back these up with relevant examples and references. Making sure that each skill has examples and experiences is a good way of proving that you’re not just making up what you’re good at and also offers you the opportunity to show a diverse range of things you’ve been involved in that might not have quite made the cut for your CV.

‘I open at the close…’

You need to finish off in style as well – saying something like ‘I look forward to your reply’ or ‘Looking forward to hearing from you’ is a good way of making a statement that you are expecting some sort of consideration and shows you are confident in your own abilities.

Your signature should also reflect the way you began your correspondence – if you found out the name of your recipient, then ‘Yours Sincerely’ is the correct way of closing out the letter, whereas if you didn’t, a ‘Yours Faithfully’ should do the trick!

Putting in your contacts…

Make sure you sign off your name and leave a variety of ways to contact you – the company may prefer to do business over the phone or by email, so don’t sell yourself short at the end. Make your signature look professional and you’ll be well on your way to a reply!

Related Posts:

• Top 30 Graduate Employers
• What Jobs can you Get at 14 Years Old? + 20 Companies hiring
• Banks that let you Overdraft right away!
• What is the SAT?
• 9 Best Free Resume Builder Sites in 2022
• FAQ Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)?

+ Categories

• COMPARATIVE

Recent Posts

• Guide to CFA Exam Prep and Study Materials
• Guidelines to Keep Your Children Safe on the Internet
• How a VPN Can Help in Finding the Ideal Job
• Climbing the Corporate Ladder: A Guide to Leadership Roles
• What to Know About Getting Started in Remote Work
• Bank cash app on plaid
• Apps that pay instantly to cash app
• Cash app bank name
• Hack cash app with your name
• Random person sent me money on cash app
• Send money on cash app without debit card
• Transfer money from gift card to cash app
• Cash app payment completed but not received
• how to add money to cash app card at walgreens
• Need a debit card for cash app
• Doordash background check take
• Free food on doordash
• Make $500 a week with doordash
• Doordash close
• How old do you have to be to doordash
• Chick fil a pickup
• Convert amazon gift card to paypal
• Transfer visa gift card balance to paypal
• Make $1000 per day
• Split payment on paypal
• Paypal pay in 4 refund
• How old do you have to be to have a paypal
• Buy money order online with paypal
• Increase paypal credit limit
• Chime have zelle
• Use zelle without a bank account
• Ally zelle limit
• Zelle with a credit card
• Huntington bank have zelle
• Varo work with zelle
• Tjmaxx credit card payment synchrony
• Kay jewelers credit card login
• How much does facebook pay for views
• Free atm for netspend
• Afterpay declined
• Does quiktrip have money orders?
• Bank of america atm check deposit limit
• APPRENTICESHIPS
• CAREER INDUSTRY
• CAREER PATH
• COVER LETTER
• INTERNSHIPS
• POSTGRADUATE
• SCHOLARSHIPS
• SELF EMPLOYMENT
• STUDENT DISCOUNT
• WORK EXPERIENCE
• TERMS & CONDITIONS
• PRIVACY POLICY & GDPR
• COOKIE POLICY

Contact us: [email protected]

• Careers & Employability
• Support for students and graduates
• Services and support

Writing a covering letter

A covering letter highlights your relevant strengths and motivation for the job and organisation you are applying to, and markets you effectively by complementing your CV.

While there isn’t one way to write a covering letter there are some key things to consider to ensure you follow a logical structure and engage the employer in reading your letter. 

Top tips for success

Make sure that your letter is clear, informative and professional-looking, so that the recruiter will want to go on and read your CV.

• Keep to  one page
• If possible, address it to a  named person : just call the organisation and ask, if it's not clear elsewhere
• Set it out like a business letter, with  addresses and date at the top
• Check your  spelling and grammar
• Use the  same font  as your CV so that they look consistent
• Consider addressing gaps in your CV or other areas you think might need explaining, for example, a retaken year or a health problem. Try to be brief and positive and if in doubt book an appointment with a careers consultant
• Tailor your letter  to each application and try to highlight skills and experience that are relevant to that specific job and employer (it’s obvious it’s a generic letter if you just change the organisation name!)
• Give evidence for claims you make
• Try not to start every sentence with ‘I’
• Keep it  concise and focused  to encourage further reading of your letter and CV
• Be  professional  rather than overly humorous or informal 
• Sell yourself : don’t underplay your skills or make negative comments about yourself
• If you are sending your application by  email , attach the CV and covering letter rather than typing it into the email body. The format of an email can change drastically depending on the system used by the employer.

Write in clear, concise English with a professional yet conversational tone. While you will need to support your claims with evidence, try not to drown the reader with details and avoid jargon they may not understand.

The exact content will depend on you and the job or course but it should include the content outlined below. Remember, you can vary the order of information to suit your style of writing, but make sure it reads logically.

Introduction

Introduce yourself (subject, year and where are you are studying) and explain why you are writing. If you are making a speculative enquiry about the possibility of a job, be clear about the type of work or opportunity you are asking for. If you are responding to an advert, say where you saw it.

Why this role, why this employer

The covering letter is where you should explain your interest and enthusiasm for an organisation and role. Say what attracts you to the kind of work involved, based on your knowledge of the duties and likely satisfactions. This will demonstrate your understanding of the opportunity and your motivation.

Show you’ve done your research into the organisation. Mention what you have done to find out more, e.g. online research or speaking with their staff at careers events, and explain how your skills and interests match the organisation’s values and culture. If possible, back this up by referring to relevant activities where you have demonstrated these interests.

When describing what attracts you to the organisation, make it specific and original, rather than repeating facts stated on their website.  Note: If you could say the exact same things about a different organisation, then you have not been specific enough, and the employer will spot this.

Sometimes you won’t know who the employer is, e.g. if you are applying via a recruitment agency. In this case concentrate on the attractions of the role.

Why you are perfect for the job

Using the job description or person specification, describe your most relevant experiences as evidence of the employer’s requirements. This will help convince the employer you are the ideal candidate for this job. If there is no detailed job description, use careers information/job profiles which describe typical features of the work.

You can also use this careers information for a speculative application, as you can describe abilities and experience that you would expect them to be looking for given the nature of the opportunity that you are seeking.

While the CV is a brief summary of facts and your selling points, the covering letter is where you show exactly how and why you fit the opportunity and organisation you are applying to. So when describing your key examples don't repeat the information already in your CV. Instead, add more detail to make a stronger and compelling case.

Reiterate your enthusiasm to join the organisation and end with ‘I look forward to hearing from you’ or a similar statement. If appropriate, say when you are/are not available for interview. Ensure you sign off ‘Yours sincerely’ if writing to a named individual, and ‘Yours faithfully’ if you have not been able to find a named contact. Type your name, but also sign the letter if you are printing it out.

Dealing with 'difficult' issues / disclosing a disability

Covering letters also give you the chance to say more about any ‘difficult’ issues, for example weaker grades, lack of relevant experience, time gaps and health issues/disability. Use the letter to explain how you have coped with any setbacks and be sure to emphasise positive qualities that you have developed as a result, such as determination and persistence. Write positively about the experience, for example what you learnt from it, and what you have done to address the issue since then, if applicable.

If you have health-related issues or a disability, it is your decision whether to disclose this when writing your covering letter and there is  further advice on this topic . You may wish to discuss this with an adviser.

Sample covering letters and resources

We have a number of templates to help you write a covering letter and CV, but DO NOT just copy these. You need to use your judgment and create your own application, targeting it to the needs of the the job and employer. Make it personal so that it stands out from the crowd.

• CV with skills section and letter
• CV and letter
• CV with profile and letter
• CV and letter for mature student
• CV and letter for part-time work
• CV and letter for part-time work (two sides)
• CV and letter applying for science PhD

Active words for CVs and covering letters

Experience all t he benefits and services that come from being a Sheffield graduate.