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4/12/2020 - This email format will get you noticed by recruiters

by Christy Matino
https://www.theladders.com/career-advice/this-email-format-will-get-you-noticed-by-recruiters 

It’s no secret that standing out from a crowd of job seekers is difficult. Recruiters get hundreds of emails and applications per day. So, how do you craft an email to a potential employer that will get you noticed?

There are some key tactics to include when drafting an email to a recruiter, but the key takeaway is to keep your email professional yet memorable.

Personal and professional
There is a way to stand out immediately within the first sentence of an email – addressing the letter to the person directly. While so many applications begin with “To Whom It May Concern”, try to dig up as much information you can about the person you are emailing (cough cough, LinkedIn.) Doing research can benefit you in a big way.

You may discover, for instance, that you and the recruiter were both in the same fraternity. Establishing connections where you can helps your email to stand out from the pack and makes you as a person more memorable.

However, it is important to keep in mind not to overexpress your eagerness. Over enthusiasm can come across as excessive or desperate in an email. While you can mention you are excited about the company or the position, mention it once and then leave it at that.

List key skills
Companies always want to know what you can do for them. Craft your email so that you mention how your skills will help the corporation succeed. If the job position states they require someone with certain abilities, make sure to point out specific examples of your experience and how you have used them in your previous jobs.

Don’t create a laundry list of skills. Rather, choose three to five to mention that you believe would help you stand out. It may also be beneficial to mention any work that you have done in the past that relates to the current role. For example, if you are applying to a women’s lifestyle publication, it may be worth noting your previous experience as a beauty writer. If any company missions or values stick align with your personal beliefs, mention those in the email as well. This not only shows that you have done your research but also shows that your personality would mesh well with the company and its employees.

Timing is everything
It’s important to know the best times to email the recruiter so that your message actually gets read. According to Flexjobs.com, the best time to write to the hiring manager is between the hours of 8:00-10:00 a.m. and 3:00-4:00 p.m. Have your email drafted out and ready to go so you can send it off during these hours. Keep time zones in mind so that you can send the email to match what their time is.

It’s also more likely your application or email will get viewed if you send it as soon as the job is posted. I personally know people who have reached out expressing interest in a position via email as soon as they saw the job posting and heard back relatively quickly. Check to see if the recruiter’s info is on the job description and send a personal email ASAP.

Ask for a time to talk
Always end your email with a call to action. Directly ask the recruiter to set up a time to meet or for a phone call. This shows your dedication to the position and that you are serious about pursuing the opportunity.

Now, if your request is accepted and you speak to the recruiter…

Send a follow up thank you email
It’s so important to always follow up within 24 hours of speaking to the recruiter. Personally, I always send my thank you emails within a few hours after. It shows your interest and that you are responsive.

There is a way to craft this email to reach the maximum potential for a response back. Referring back to the concept of being memorable, mention something you and the interviewer spoke about. This will jog their memory and help you stick. It could be a personal connection, the company’s values or something about the position itself.

Remember to keep your email concise, memorable, personal and end with a call to action. It will increase your chances of potentially getting a response to your next career opportunity.