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Sign Up NowSending cold emails to potential employers may feel intimidating at first, but they can also open up valuable opportunities for you in the long run.
So how do you overcome the nerves and write a cold email that works?
We’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll look at:
And a few samples cold emails to give you a head start
If you’re ready to make the most of cold emailing in your job search, keep reading.
A cold email, much like a cold call, is a way to reach out to someone you haven’t spoken to before.
They are often used for networking, career opportunities, or business connections, and serve as the first step toward building a professional relationship.
If you’re seeking a new role, a cold email can be a practical way to let a company know you’re interested in joining their team.
You might use a cold email to:
In today’s digital-first world, cold emails can be one of the most effective ways to approach people about job openings.
Here’s why they work:
Now that you know what cold emails are and why they’re useful, let’s talk about how to write them correctly.
You can do it in a few clear steps:
The first thing to do is figure out who you should send your email to. This step is often skipped, but it makes a big difference.
Even a perfectly written email won’t help if it lands in the wrong inbox.
A good place to start is the “About Us” page on the company’s website.
Often, team roles and job titles will point you to the right person, such as:
If you can’t find anyone, try checking the company’s LinkedIn page or other social media.
The next challenge is getting your email opened.
For that, you’ll need a short and relevant subject line that makes the recipient curious.
Since you’ve already researched the company and person, use that knowledge to make your subject line engaging.
You can include things like:
Just keep it brief and easy to read.
After your subject line, start your email the right way.
A proper salutation may seem small, but it sets the tone for your message.
It’s safest to open with “Dear” followed by “Mr./Ms.” and their last name.
Once you’ve started your email, explain why you’re reaching out and give them a reason to keep reading.
Be specific and include details such as:
This is the perfect place to use a short version of your elevator pitch and highlight your most relevant skills.
When closing your email, make sure you include a clear call to action, as it is one of the most important parts.
Encourage the reader to take the next step after reading your message – whether that’s arranging a meeting, scheduling a phone call, or simply replying to your email.
To finish on a positive note, remember to thank the person for their time and attention.
After that, sign off with a professional closing phrase and your contact information.
Some commonly used closings are:
Now that you understand how to write a cold email for a job search, here are a couple of sample emails to guide you in creating your own.
Sample Cold Email: When Contacting Someone Unfamiliar
Subject: Interest in Communications Coordinator Role
Dear Mr. Khan,
My name is Sara Lee, and I am reaching out regarding the Communications Coordinator opening I noticed on your company’s careers page. One of your colleagues kindly shared your contact details so I could connect with you directly.
I truly value the initiatives your team has led, and I found your recent piece on building authentic workplace culture both practical and inspiring. I would love the opportunity to discuss your perspective further.
I’d be glad to schedule a conversation within the next couple of weeks to explore how my skills and background could support your communications goals. I am flexible with timing and happy to adjust to your availability.
Thank you for considering my email. If I don’t hear from you, I’ll follow up early next week.
Best regards,
Sara Lee
Sample Cold Email: When Requesting an Informational Interview
Dear Ms. Thompson,
My name is Michael Carter, and I completed my degree at Westbrook University in 2019. While exploring your organization’s website, I came across your profile and was impressed by your published work and professional achievements.
If convenient, I would greatly appreciate the chance to meet for about 30 minutes—perhaps over coffee—to learn more about your career journey and gain insight into potential opportunities within your team.
Would you have time for a brief meeting in the near future? I am flexible and can adjust to the time that works best for you.
Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to your reply.
Sincerely,
Michael Carter
That’s it — now you know how to write an effective cold email for job opportunities.
Here’s a quick recap of the steps:
Find the right person to contact – there’s no point in writing a strong email if it never reaches the right inbox
Create a clear subject line – it should catch attention and make the recipient open your message
Start with a proper salutation – small but important in setting the right tone
Explain your purpose – briefly share who you are, how you got their details, and why you’re reaching out
Add a call to action – invite them to respond, meet, or schedule a call
Sign off with your name and contact details – use a professional closing before ending the email
Look back at the examples above and use them as a guide to write your own cold email for your next job search.
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