Follow up emails
Informational interviews
Thank you emails
LinkedIn Messages
Other
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Your LinkedIn and alumni networks can be a jackpot when it comes to professional networking. You’ve got an instant connection, one that can open the door to seasoned insider advice on your career plan and industry insight or, if things go super well, a job lead.
A ‘cold email’ introduction or LinkedIn message is usually the best way to get the conversation rolling. A good place to start is your alumni, including those you don’t know well.
LinkedIn is also your go-to search tool. Universities and colleges have an alumni page on LinkedIn where you can find out who’s working in your industry. This makes it easy to find
Your alumni network isn't just for recent grads either - you can leverage your university and college connections at any career stage.
A few quick tips when sending a cold email or LinkedIn request:
- Keep your introduction email or message short
- Be mindful about their time
- Be authentic with a simple request - ask for advice and not a favor
Don’t feel stalkerish dropping someone you’ve never met an email or message. It’s a common practice and many of your successful peers did exactly the same thing.
Some alumni connections may be brief but others could last for years. Nurture your alumni relationships - they could play a key role in taking your career to the next level!
How to reach out to people about a job (+ LinkedIn and email template included)
Subject: NYU senior - would appreciate your insight
Hi Tim,
My name is Rohan and I'm a senior at NYU. I came across your name on your alumni database. I hope you're doing great!
I am reaching out because I am interested in a job in software engineering, and I want to learn more about the industry. I saw from your LinkedIn profile that you have a lot of unique experiences, both at large enterprises and technology startups.
A bit about me: I'm majoring in Computer Science and last year I did a software engineering internship at Resume Worded, where I implemented a caching algorithm using Java and Python.
I'd be so grateful if I could ask you a few questions about your experiences and any recommendations you might have about navigating the job search. Do you have 10-15 minutes for a quick coffee next week? I can come to your office (I also live in NY) or wherever is most convenient for you. I'd really appreciate it.
Thank you!
- Rohan
Insight
Note how we ask for advice, not a job. You don't want to be emailing someone that doesn't know you for a job or an interview right off the bat. Build a relationship first! Highlight specific questions in your email ("is consulting a good fit for me?") and specific experiences you've had that are relevant to the industry (in this case, software engineering) - you're more likely to get a response this way.
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How to reach out to someone on Linkedin about a job [Email template]
Subject: Interested in Resume Worded
Hi Stefi,
I hope this message finds you well! I've been with ABC Co. for a few years now as a Software Engineer, and I've just started looking for a new opportunity. I've been following Resume Worded for some time and there are a few roles I've come across that seem like a great fit.
I'd love to meet to get a better idea of Resume Worded and learn about the kind of work you're doing at the moment. Are you free this week for a quick phone call?
Thanks!
Katie
Insight
If you know someone who works at a company you want to work for, consider using some variation of this template. Avoid asking for a job referral directly - instead, ask for advice or feedback on your resume. More often than not, someone will eventually say "I could refer you if you want?".
You can send this template to a hiring manager or recruiter.
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Asking a LinkedIn contact for advice
Subject: Congrats on the move!
Hi Jack,
I see from LinkedIn that you're currently working in product management, and transitioned into the industry from a marketing role!
I've actually been contemplating a similar move (I feel like I'm in the exact same position you were in!) and would love to hear what the transition was like for you. It'd also be great to hear about what the hiring processes are like at ABC Co.
Thanks,
Rohan
Insight
This could either be sent via email or LinkedIn, depending on your relationship. The email is succinct and to the point, and is a good one to use to maintain your relationships with your network.
Note how in this email, we do not ask for a job. It's important to build a relationship first.
Found this template useful? Bookmark it and you'll never get stuck on an email again. Also, please share it with your network! It helps us keep these templates free.
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