An expression of interest, often shortened to EOI, is a short written pitch that tells an employer you want a role and why you would be good at it. It is used when a job is open to anyone who puts their hand up, when a team wants a short list before a formal process, or when you are approaching a company that hasn't advertised. Keep it to one page, name the role or team, give two or three reasons you fit and make it easy for them to say yes.
What is an expression of interest?
It sits between a cold email and a full application. You are saying "I am interested, and here is the short version of why I would be a good fit". Some employers ask for one in place of a cover letter and resume, especially for internal moves, secondments, acting roles and volunteer or committee positions. Others accept one from candidates who want to be considered for future roles.
What should an expression of interest include?
- The role, team or type of work you are interested in
- Who you are in one sentence, such as your current role or course
- Two or three reasons you fit, each backed by something you have done
- What you are asking for, such as a conversation, an interview or being considered for the next opening
- Your contact details and when you are available
If the employer gave selection criteria, answer each one in a sentence or two. If they didn't, use the job ad or the team's public work to decide what matters most to them.
How long should an expression of interest be?
One page at most. Half a page often does the job. The reader has a stack of these, so the first two sentences need to say who you are and what you want.
What does an expression of interest look like?
Here is an example to adapt. Swap every bracket, and swap any example that isn't yours.
Hi [Name],
I'd like to put my name forward for the [role] in [team]. I'm currently a [your role] at [employer], where I [one specific thing you do that relates to the role].
Three reasons I think I'm a good fit. First, I led [project] and delivered it [result]. Second, I work closely with [stakeholders] every week, so I already know how the work flows. Third, I've been studying [relevant skill] and have used it to [outcome].
I'd welcome a short conversation about what the role needs. I'm free [days and times] and can be reached on [phone number].
Thanks for your time,
[Your name]
How is an expression of interest different from a cover letter?
A cover letter goes with a resume for a role that is formally open. An expression of interest can stand on its own, and it is shorter and more direct. If you also need to write a cover letter, our guide to writing an internship cover letter shows the structure.
What mistakes should you avoid?
- Sending the same message to every employer. Change at least the first line and the reasons you fit.
- Listing every skill you have. Pick the two or three that matter for this role.
- Leaving out the ask. If you don't say what you want, they don't know what to do with the message.
- Forgetting to proofread. A wrong name or wrong team in the first line ends the conversation.
What if they offer you the role?
Check the pay against the market before you say yes. The free AusCorp Vault salary check shows where a salary sits against what others in your role earn.
This is general information, not legal or financial advice.
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