Landing a job can sometimes feel too hectic—you’re putting yourself out there, hoping for a call. But instead of swiping right, you’re sending a cold email job inquiry that says, “Hey, I’m awesome, and here’s why you should notice me!”
Done right, this bold move can skip the crowded application portals and land you directly in front of decision-makers. So, how do you craft an email that doesn’t end up in the dreaded trash folder? Let’s dive in!
What Are Cold Emails?
Imagine you want to join a cool club but don’t know anyone there. A cold email is like writing a polite, friendly note to the club leader, even though you’ve never talked to them.
In job hunting, cold emailing for a job is when you send a message to a recruiter, boss, or someone who works in a job you like to ask if they have any spots open for you to join their “club.” It’s a brave way to introduce yourself and see if they’ll let you in!
Cold emails are entirely different from traditional applications; they’re all personal and direct, and it’s the best way to get the attention of a potential employer. This is particularly useful when applying to unlisted positions or when you’re applying to less advertised positions.
Benefits of Sending Cold Emails
A well-crafted cold email job inquiry can be a way to open the door to exciting opportunities. Here’s why it works:
- Access hidden job markets: There are many jobs you will never see on the internet looking for. Such roles can be uncovered by taking a direct approach.
- Show initiative: Candidates who make an effort to connect are valued by employers.
- Build a personal connection: Cold email allows you to just get right to the decision maker.
- Stand out: Most candidates only rely on job boards. A specialized job inquiry email subject and message in your job inquiry email separates you from others.
With the right cold email software and structure, you will prove you’re a good researcher, good at persistence, and enthusiastic.
How to Write a Job Application Email
An effective cold email is much more than just asking for a job. To leave a lasting impression, do these.
Identify the Right Person to Contact
- You can find the hiring manager, recruiter, or relevant department head by conducting proper research on the company website or LinkedIn.
- Say goodbye to generic emails like “info@company.com. “Instead, personalize your emails and show that you did the work to blast out an email.
- For someone who isn’t sure, he/she should search for people in roles like ‘Talent Acquisition Specialist’ or ‘HR Manager’ to learn more on LinkedIn.
- You wouldn’t want your email to end up in the unread list or be ignored. The time you send your email matters more than you think. Cold emails sent on Monday see the highest email open rate of 22%.
Tell Them Exactly Why You Are Contacting Them
- Start by introducing why you’re getting in touch with someone.
- Specific about a role, project, or value, you recommend that someone learn about the company.
- Example: “What I like about [specific project] and wanted to also see if there are some related opportunities on your team.”
Start with a Small Request
- Before asking for a job, show patience—don’t ask for a job immediately. Instead, request a short call, informational interview, or advice.
- Example: “Wouldn’t you meet with me for 10 minutes to hear your thoughts on [topic]?”
Personalize Your Message
- Every email should be tailored to the recipient. Talk about their achievements, the company’s latest achievements, or material-related news within the industry.
- Don’t use templates that don’t feel personal. Gone are the days when the response rate was low. Cold emails with advanced personalization, such as including a recipient’s name or company, have a response rate of 17%, compared to 7% for non-personalized emails.
Follow Up if Necessary
- If you don’t hear from them, send another polite follow-up 5–7 days later.
- Say you are interested, but do not seem pushy.
Cold Email Examples
Below are a few templates for cold emailing for a job:
Example 1: General Job Inquiry
Subject: Job Inquiry
Dear Ms. Johnson,
I have sent this email to you with the hope that you are alright. It’s Alex Carter, and I’ve been doing digital advertising for 5 years. I like your company with its social media marketing campaigns, and I would like to know if your team has any potential there.
I would like to share a little bit about my skills in a campaign strategy, in content creation, and analytics to help you build a strong team. If you had a moment free to chat I would love to know what time would work for you.
Best regards,
Alex Carter
Example 2: Following Up on a Job Lead
Subject: Following Up on Job Inquiry
Hi Mr. Davis,
I got an email last week about marketing opportunities at BrightWave, and I wanted to follow up on the email I sent. I know you are busy, but I would love to know more about the role of social media strategy within your marketing department.
Please let me know if a short call would be okay. Feel free to message me with any hiring questions again!
Best regards,
Alex Carter
Example 3: Requesting Advice
Subject: Seeking Advice on [Industry or Role]
Dear Ms. Taylor,
I hope you’re doing well. Hi, I am Sarah Brown, an aspiring UX Designer. I respect and admire your work at Creative Solutions and appreciate your recent achievement in designing the award-winning mobile app interface.
What do you think of a quick 15-minute call to get your input on building a strong design portfolio? I would be grateful for your advice.
Thank you in advance,
Sarah Brown
Tips for Sending Cold Email Job Inquiries
Here are some tips to improve your chances of success:
- Craft a compelling subject line: A good job application email subject line attracts attention. Make it concise and relevant.
- Keep it brief: Concise emails are preferred when you are busy. Your message should be 3–4 short paragraphs.
- Proofread: Bad spelling and grammar make a bad first impression.
- Add a LinkedIn link: Write your credentials on your profile so it’s easy for you to access.
- Be patient: Persistence will pay off for some of the emails, but not all.
Conclusion
Taking control of your career by sending a cold email job inquiry is proactive. In a competitive job market, you’ll have an edge if you can identify the right person, personalize your message, and follow up.
To get started with writing a cold email, you can use cold email software to compose a well-structured and convincing email.
Don’t forget, success is often about preparation, and persistence. Therefore, write your emails carefully and do not hesitate in making the first move!
