The Power of Cold Emailing When Job Hunting
Let’s face it: the traditional job hunt can often feel like you’re launching your resume into a black hole. You spend hours filling out applications, submitting your resume and various cover letters, then send them on their way in hopes that you’ll hear back from someone at some point in the near future. The reality though, is that hiring managers and recruiters are frequently inundated with hundreds of resumes per job opening, making the initial step of getting your foot (ahem, your resume) in the door increasingly difficult. That’s where networking and online savvy come into play. Enter the power of cold emailing.
So, what exactly is cold emailing, and why is it advantageous to job seekers? Sending a cold email or message simply means reaching out directly to those in charge of hiring for specific positions to make them aware of your interest in the role. Sometimes, hiring managers will include their contact information or even their LinkedIn profile on job postings online. Use this information to help you! A simple message through LinkedIn or short email with resume attached immediately helps you stand out from the crowd of other applicants. Perhaps you’re interested in working for a specific company, but no positions are currently open. A great email to individuals in talent acquisition can start a conversation and potentially lead to a new job down the line.
Does this seem like an avenue you’d like to explore? Here are some tips to help you craft the perfect message:
Research is Key: Learn about the company, the person you're contacting, and their specific needs. This is easily done by exploring both the company website and the LinkedIn pages of those employed there.
Personalize Your Message: A generic email will get lost. Highlight a specific project, achievement, or shared interest that resonates with the recipient.
Focus on Value: Don't just ask for a job. Explain how your skills and experience can benefit the company.
Keep it Concise and Clear: State your purpose upfront, highlight your qualifications, and include a clear call to action (e.g., informational interview request).
Proofread and Polish: Typos and grammatical errors scream unprofessional. Double-check your email before hitting send.
Remember, a cold email is an introduction, not a sales pitch. By putting in the effort to personalize your message and demonstrate value, you can use cold emailing to break through the noise and land your dream job. So, ditch the black hole of applications and start crafting those emails – it might just be your key to unlocking the next exciting chapter in your career.
