'Cold' Emailing

Question

When is it okay to 'cold' email someone - and is it ever okay? I don't want to overload someone's inbox, but I'm also just starting out and don't have many people in my network.

Anne Knox · Answer

Lots of good advice here, but I would like to add that be specific and narrow with your ask. Most professionals do not have time to meet for coffee with a stranger without an agenda, but they might answer if you ask, what are the 3 most important traits you look for when hiring for position I’m interested in

Elianet Oliva · Answer

I have been attending a lot of professional seminars and follow a couple of career coaches during my current job search and they preach that cold emailing is the way to go. However,  keep in mind, you have to be patient with the response no to burn a bridge before it is formed. Also, don't put all your eggs in one basket, in other words search for more than 1 or 2 people at the company you are targeting. Always remember, people that will help you will do so no matter what, same applies to those that won't help. So don't be shy, try it out and let me know your results.

Tricia Sitemere · Answer

Hello! I think it's fine to do so as long as you do so with some parameters. 1. Understand they may not respond or their response may be delayed. 2.If you are going to do so, remember networking is a 2 way street.  I have a networking guide I created, feel free to shoot me a note if interested! GOOD LUCK!!! :-)

Shelby C · Answer

LinkedIn is the perfect platform. Be careful with your words and don't be generic. You don't want it to seem like an email blast. I'm more likely to read something with my name in it. It's also an annoyance when people send them after 11pm and before 6am.

Laura McCann · Answer

Hi there!  I am completely fine with cold emailing!  I have no problem if anyone reaches out to me on LinkedIn or directly through email.  In fact, I encourage folks to take such action.

SanneRietveld · Answer

Hi there! Completely agree with Tricia - I don't think you should be afraid to reach out, you'll see that there are many people out there glad to help you. There are many ways to write your first message, and I'd say it is always a good idea to find a common ground with the person you're writing and it sounds like Tricia's guide can be a great help! Good luck!

Keila Alvarado · Answer

It is perfectly okay and a good investment to try to network and expand your connections as many opportunities are made in that way.  But you would get more responses by sending personalized sentences and catchy intros. Turn your intention to a small ask when compared to highlighting your skills, what you could bring to the plate of a company, or how you could be of service to the person instead of asking for a recommendation or a favor. Good luck!

Mina Asif · Answer

Hi! I get the apprehension. I feel like I am bothering someone or being a nuisance. However, I have to remind myself to get out there.

Suzanne Taylor · Answer

Totally agree that cold emailing is fine if the person has a publicly listed email address. LinkedIn is also widely used for networking, so you may feel more comfortable starting with messaging professionals on there.

Sara Bruno · Answer

Definitely recommend cold emailing!! That's how I got my most recent job. At the end of the day, I think most people would be willing to help in any way they can because they'd hope someone would do the same for them. Do it! Best of luck!

"Cold" Emailing

You're invited.

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