What is the goal of a letter of intent for jobs?

Applying for jobs soon and I'm not sure what a letter of intent is supposed to accomplish. Is it more like a cover letter or something different? How can I make mine stand out?

A letter of intent for a job, often similar to a cover letter, serves the purpose of explaining your interest in a particular job position and why you believe you would be a strong fit for the role. It provides you the opportunity to share more about your experience, skills, and aspirations that might not be fully conveyed just through your resume.

You should tailor your letter of intent to the specific job you're applying for—avoid generic content. Analyze the job description and directly link your skills and experiences to the requirements mentioned. For instance, if the job description mentions teamwork skills, you could provide examples of successful team projects you've contributed to in a previous role.

At the same time, express clearly why you're interested in the position, why you're keen to join their organization, and how you align with the company's mission and values. This shows that you've done your research about the company and know what you're signing up for.

Ending on a proactive note is a good idea, such as stating you look forward to the potential of discussing your qualifications further in an interview. This displays enthusiasm and confidence about your application.

Remember, the letter is an opportunity to showcase your writing skills, so make sure there are no typos or grammatical errors. Lastly, maintain a professional tone throughout while imparting a sense of your personality.

The goal of standing out in a stack of application letters is achievable if your letter of intent is specific, personally engaging, effectively expresses your enthusiasm and fitness for the role, and is well-thought-out and error-free.