There’s one free tool that provides the boost that every job seeker needs: email.
Getting into the inboxes of the right people can help you stand out in a sea of talented applicants. The best ones have certain key features that grab the reader’s attention. Taking a strategic approach to your emails can ensure that they’re getting opened.
The most successful leaders have proven that the right emails can yield positive results. Before you send emails, set yourself up for success.
Setting up your email
- Set up a job search email account so you can easily keep track of your correspondence. Ideally, it will be something simple like firstname.lastname@gmail.com
- Don’t include anything decorative or ornate like colored fonts and emojis. There may be exceptions if you’re in a design-related field; however, you can always include a personalized signature to avoid clutter.
- Always have a clear subject line, that concisely conveys your purpose. Example: ” Saying hello + a quick question about [TOPIC]” or “Looking to learn more about [TOPIC]”
- Include a signature with your contact information so that the contact can stay in touch. Example format:
- FirstName LastName
- Email Address
- Phone
- LinkedIn Profile URL
- All emails should have a greeting and a closing. Unless you know the person, call them by their title. Sign off with a brief “Thank you,” Sincerely,” or “Best,” before inserting your signature.
Once you’re ready to structure your email, you must decide the best template to follow.
Sending a cold email to a company you want to work for:
According to Dev Aujla, the CEO of Catalog, this email structure is the “magic bullet” for landing a new job.
For these steps to be successful, you’ll need to have done the work to support your claims. You’ll also need the structure it to be as authentic as possible.
- Prove that you have three skills that the company needs.
- Show three tangible ways you are mission-aligned.
- Explain that you came across their company after researching and you can create more impact by working together.
- Request a meeting.
Sending a networking email:
When you’re messaging someone in your network, you want to avoid immediately asking for help finding a job. Instead, say that you’re reaching out because you’d love to learn more about their company and/or career. You want to be as concise as possible while eliminating any confusion concerning the purpose of your interaction. Depending on your seniority, you also may be able to provide something beneficial to them in return.
- A statement that provides context to why you’re contacting them.
- Request to meet.
Sending a follow-up email:
According to mailshake, 80% of prospects say ‘no’ four times before saying ‘yes’. If you haven’t heard back, give them a couple weeks before following up again. It’s likely that they forgot about it or missed it in their inbox. This email needs to be written as if you’re participating in a discussion. Most people don’t follow up twice, so doing so makes you stand out.
- Short statement that mentions something you both may be interested in and/or involved in. (e.g. I enjoyed our conversation about [TOPIC] the [LOCATION])
- Repeat your request.
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