A job inquiry email, also known as a prospecting or cold outreach email, is sent to a company to express interest in working for them when no specific job is advertised. The purpose is to introduce yourself and explore unadvertised opportunities, allowing you to get on a company’s radar for roles before they become public. Reaching out directly demonstrates initiative and a genuine interest in the organization, which are qualities employers notice.
Preparing to Write Your Inquiry
Before writing, conduct detailed research on your target company. Look beyond the “About Us” page to investigate the company’s mission, recent projects, and news releases to understand their work. Also, familiarize yourself with their company culture by exploring their social media or reading employee reviews to ensure your message aligns with their values.
After your research, find the right person to contact. Avoid sending your email to a generic address like “info@company.com.” Instead, use the company’s online directory or a platform like LinkedIn to identify the head of your desired department or a relevant hiring manager. Targeting your email to a specific person increases the chance it will be read.
Crafting an Effective Subject Line
Your subject line is the first impression and must be professional, concise, and clear about the email’s purpose. It should inform the recipient of the content at a glance, preventing it from being ignored in a busy inbox.
Avoid vague subject lines like “Question” or “Job.” Instead, use an informative and targeted approach. Examples include “Job Inquiry: Experienced Marketing Professional,” “Inquiry Regarding Engineering Opportunities,” or “Referral from Jane Doe: Inquiry about Project Management.”
Writing the Body of the Email
Begin with a professional salutation, such as “Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],” addressing the person you identified in your research. In the first sentence, state your purpose directly. For example, “I am writing to express my interest in potential opportunities within the [Department Name] at [Company Name].”
In the next paragraphs, connect your research to your qualifications. Mention a specific project or company value that impressed you to show genuine interest. Then, briefly highlight two or three relevant skills or accomplishments that align with the company’s goals and demonstrate how you can be an asset.
Conclude with a professional closing and a clear call to action. You can express a desire to learn more about the team or ask if they would be open to a brief informational conversation. Politely requesting they keep your resume on file for future openings is another option. End with “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” followed by your full name and contact information.
What to Include with Your Email
Always attach your resume to the email as a PDF to ensure formatting remains consistent. Name the file clearly, for instance, “FirstName-LastName-Resume.pdf,” to help the hiring manager stay organized.
In your email signature, include links to relevant online profiles. A link to your portfolio is valuable for fields like graphic design or writing, as it provides concrete examples of your work. Including your LinkedIn profile also offers more detailed information about your professional background.
Following Up on Your Inquiry
If you do not receive a response, wait one to two weeks before sending a polite follow-up message. This timing shows persistence without seeming impatient.
Your follow-up email should be brief and sent as a reply to your original message for context. A simple note reminding them of your initial email and reiterating your interest is sufficient. It is best to only send one follow-up to avoid harming your professional reputation.
Job Inquiry Email Template
Subject: Job Inquiry: [Your Field or Area of Expertise]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
I am writing to you today to express my interest in working for [Company Name]. I have been following your work on [Mention a Specific Project, Product, or Company Achievement] and am impressed by your company’s commitment to [Mention a Company Value or Goal].
(This opening immediately states your purpose and demonstrates that you have done your research, showing genuine interest.)
With over [Number] years of experience in [Your Field], I have developed skills in [Your Specific Skill 1] and [Your Specific Skill 2]. In my previous role at [Previous Company], I was responsible for [Briefly Describe a Key Accomplishment], which resulted in [Quantifiable Result]. I am confident that my background in [Your Area of Expertise] would allow me to contribute to your team.
(This section acts as your value proposition, connecting your skills and achievements directly to the potential needs of the company.)
I have attached my resume for your review and would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills could benefit [Company Name]. Thank you for your time and consideration.
(This closing provides a clear call to action and makes it easy for the hiring manager to access more information.)
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Link to your LinkedIn Profile or Portfolio]