How to Send Networking Emails With Your Resume (Templates Included)
Jump to a section
Who enjoys sending cold emails? Right, obviously nobody does. But like a lot of stages in the job search process, they’re a necessary evil. Emailing out your resume doesn’t have to be a chore — especially with these handy tips and templates.
How to send your resume via email
Here’s how to craft the perfect email to go along with your resume:
- Find a direct email address for the person you’re trying to contact. Don’t just email a generic contact address for the company — chances are it will never be seen by the intended recipient.
- Address the recruiter or hiring manager by name.
- Use a clear and attention-grabbing subject line. Ideally, this should include your name, the position you’re applying for, and other important information (like a referral or standout qualification).
- Include 1-3 short paragraphs summarizing who you are, why you’re interested in the position, and your key skills and experience.
- End with a simple call to action.
Why send your resume via email?
These days, most job applications go directly through online portals like LinkedIn or Indeed. But these aren’t the be-all and end-all of job applications — there are times when it makes more sense to email your resume directly.
Sending an inquiry letter
Most job openings are never publicly advertised, which means it pays to be proactive. Emailing an inquiry letter to a recruiter is a great way of finding out about any open positions before they’re advertised and giving yourself a significant advantage.
Following up with contacts
Not all networking is cold emails. If you’ve connected with a recruiter or hiring manager at an event or on LinkedIn, it makes sense to follow that up by sending through your resume. Even if they don’t have any open positions that are a good fit, it establishes a relationship and keeps you on their radar for future openings.
Establishing a relationship
If you don’t currently have a relationship with the hiring manager, why not initiate one? Even if you’ve applied to a position online, it can be a good idea to follow that up by emailing the hiring manager directly.
When there’s no online portal
Online job applications are fairly standard these days, but not every company is on board. Some companies — especially smaller businesses — may not have advertised a position on one of the major job sites or have their own online application system. In that case, emailing your email directly to the hiring manager is the best way to apply.
How to write a networking email
Make it personal
Always start with an introduction — this is a professional email, not a sales pitch. Do your research on the company or recruiter first so you can customize it. Your email is essentially a mini cover letter, so treat it like one.
Send it to the right person
It’s worth taking the time to find a direct email address for the recruiter or hiring manager you’re trying to contact. Don’t just email a generic contact address for the company — chances are it will never be seen by the intended recipient.
Polish it up
Ready to begin? Scroll down for some word-for-word email templates you can use to email your resume in any situation.
Continue reading...
