Looking for A Job? Write an Email!
The “Write” Way
Whether you’re fresh out of college or looking to change your career, hunting for job opportunities can be a difficult, lengthy and nerve-wracking endeavour. But, rather than waiting for job positions to become vacant, you can try another option: writing emails to companies.
Now, the thought of emailing companies for potential openings may sound scarily on par with phoning them or even showing up at their front desk, but it’s actually less daunting than it seems. All you have to do is pay attention to your tone, be specific about your request and your skillset, ask for information and follow up – all without waffling!
Sending The Right Message
Let’s break down these steps in detail:
Be Formal
When composing an email, it’s important to maintain a formal, professional tone throughout. First, politely introduce yourself, then directly state the purpose of your email is (ie. enquiring about potential job openings).
For example, whether you’re emailing a law firm or a retailer, it’s no good starting off the message like this: “Hi there, I’m looking for work and I wanted to know if you’ve got anything. Let me know ASAP, thanks!” This is far too casual, vague and demanding, and it will make the wrong impression on the potential employer.
Instead, start the email like this: “Dear sir/madam, my name is [your name here]. I am writing this email to inquire if you have any available job opportunities in [company’s name here].”
Be Specific
The body of the email should be direct and to the point. It should pertain to your interest in the company, the type of job position you are looking for, and how your skills and experience makes you suitable for such a position. Be brief when describing the latter (highlight at least three skills) before politely directing the employer to read the accompanying documents (your CV, a cover letter, contact details, etc).
For example: “I am interested in working for your company because [list specific reasons, including a description of the position you are looking for]. The skills that I possess [highlight three] make me qualified for such a position, though I am prepared to commit to any training that might be required. Please see attached my CV, my cover letter and other supporting documents.”
Feel free to beef up the body of the email with other miscellaneous details, such as how you’ve managed to apply your skills during certain experiences, but remember not to ramble on, as you can potentially lose the employer’s interest.
Request Information
Although you want to already make it clear that you’ve done your research on the company, you want to emphasise your interest in the company to the employer. This is a prime opportunity to politely enquire for a detailed job description, as well as to ask if you can speak to a company representative.
Thank Them For Their Time
Finally, end the email with a simple, brief thank-you while also keeping open a line of communication, eg. “Thank you for taking the time to read my email, I look forward to hearing from you.” That way, it shows the employer that you have a professional attitude, and that you are genuinely interested in the position and the company in general.
Follow Up
If you’re feeling confident or you’re tired of waiting for a response, follow up with the company by writing another email. Open the email another polite introduction, refer to your previous interaction and restate your purpose for reaching out.
For example: “Dear sir/madam, I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to follow up on the email I sent last Monday regarding potential job opportunities at your company.”
Again, this shows the employer that you are interested in the company and that you have a professional attitude.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve got the know-how, you’re ready to draft an email to potential employers. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get it the first time – keep honing your email-writing skills and continue reaching out to other employers. In due time, you will find your efforts rewarded. Good luck!