What is a cold outreach message and how can it help in job searching?
A cold outreach message is a document sent along with your resume to companies that haven’t advertised job openings. Sending a cold outreach message gives you a chance to be considered by the company for hiring. Since writing this type of message can be time-consuming, it’s best to send cold outreach messages only to the companies you are very eager to work for.
Example of a cold outreach message
Below is an example of a cold outreach message sent to an employer who has not advertised job openings. You can download a cold outreach message template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see more examples below.
Sending a cold outreach message via email
When sending your short message via email, include your name and job title in the subject line:
Subject: Inquiry from Susan Sharp
Clarify your contact information in your signature instead of placing it in the body of the message:
Sincerely,
Susan Sharp
123 Main Street
XYZ City, New York 11111
Email: susan.sharp@email.com
Mobile: 555-555-5555
Information to include in the message
Just like in a regular cover letter, your goal is to grab the company’s attention and show that you are a great candidate. However, writing a cold outreach message is tougher as you can’t rely on information provided in a job description.
In your message, convey your interest in the organization, identify the most relevant skills and experiences you have, and explain what you can offer the organization. Especially when sending unsolicited correspondence, you should have a strong pitch or key phrase that explains why you deserve consideration.
For example, you could say:
From the awards your company has received, it’s clear that you make the best Widget X product. However, the instructions on how to assemble Widget X are not highly praised. This is where I can help: As an award-winning technical writer, I excel at explaining complex things in clear and simple language.
Here are the key elements you want to include in your cold outreach message:
1. An engaging subject line: Start with a strong subject line – this will help ensure the recipient opens the email, even if they don’t recognize the sender. You can use phrases like “Why you need a better event coordinator” or “Increase your sales by 10%.” Alternatively, you can take a more subtle approach, like “Quick Request – Marketing Jobs” or “Experienced marketer interested in Company X.”
Note: If you know someone at the company, include that person’s name in the subject line.
2. What you will provide: Be clear about why you are a value add. This is where research comes in: you want to connect the company’s needs and goals to your skills and capabilities. Show how you can help achieve the company’s mission, whether that means increasing product sales or delivering on time.
3. If you have a connection, mention it: If you have a connection you can mention, make sure to include that information in the opening sentences of the message. (Always check first to ensure the connected person is comfortable with their name mentioned and is willing to recommend you.)
4. Provide evidence: It’s great to say that you have a proven track record of launching PR campaigns, but it’s better to send a link to an article or press release about the campaign’s success. Include a link or attachments to your portfolio, or samples of your writing, and any other relevant evidence of your work.
5. Include next steps: Conclude your message by suggesting next steps, such as a potential time for a follow-up call or a request for a meeting or conversation. While your ultimate goal may be a job interview, smaller requests, like an informational interview, a tour of the company, or asking for information about the next job fair, may be more easily granted.
Before
Sending a Cold Contact Message
Is it worth sending cold contact messages? This is a difficult question to answer. As you can see, writing a strong cold contact message takes longer – or even more – than writing a cover letter in response to a job advertisement. Even with a strong and targeted message, there is no guarantee that the company will be ready to welcome you.
However, that doesn’t mean cold messages and emails never yield results. If you send compelling emails and clearly demonstrate why the company needs someone like you, it could be more appealing than many cover letters responding to a job ad.
The great success of a cold contact message depends on timing, your understanding of the company, and the quality of your message. This technique is likely to be more successful when you are truly excited about working for a company and believe you would be a valuable addition.
Before sending a cold contact message, do the necessary research. In addition to knowing the company, you will want to send your message to the most appropriate person. Use LinkedIn to find the names of managers or employees in the department you wish to work in.
More Examples of Cold Contact Messages
Inquiry Messages
Interest Messages
Personal Value Messages
Was this information helpful?
Thank you for your feedback!
Let us know why!
Other
Send
Sources
The Balance uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts presented in our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we verify facts and maintain the accuracy, reliability, and quality of our content.
CareerOneStop. “Inquiry Messages.” Accessed August 17, 2020.
Related Articles
Examples of Cover Letters and Tips for Writing Them
Cover Letter Templates for Recent College Graduates
Examples and Tips for Personal Introduction Messages
Top 10 Tips for Writing a Cover Letter
Inquiry Message Templates and Tips for Writing Them
How to Write a Cover Letter for an Unannounced Job
Interest Message Templates and Tips for Writing Them
Examples of Cover Letters for Internships and Tips for Writing Them
Examples of Cover Letters for Management Positions
How to Write a Letter of Intent for a Job with Examples
Cover Letter Template for Job Application
How to Write a Cover Letter for a Job
Cover Letter Template for Business Administration Job and Tips for Writing Them
Cover Letter Template for Career Change and Tips for Writing Them
About Us
The Balance is part of the Dotdash Meredith publishing family.
Please review our updated Terms of Service.
Subscribe to the Newsletter
Subscribe to the newsletter
Source: https://www.thebalancemoney.com/what-is-a-cold-contact-cover-letter-2061946
Leave a Reply