How to network via email
By Jenesy Gabrielle Burkett Fox
Do you ever feel like you missed a lesson on how to write professional emails? Or like everyone else is somehow ahead of the game and getting opportunities you don’t?
Writing “professionally” and networking are gate-kept skills that are learned by being exposed to experienced professionals. Some people learn this in college or high school from teachers, some learn it from parents, others learn by receiving enough emails and adapting their writing style.
The best way to network through email is to ask for an informational interview, an interview where you get to know someone in the industry you want to work. These connections can later lead to internship and job opportunities. Here is your beginner’s course on how to send emails to get informational interviews or even just put your name on an organization’s radar.
Who should you email?
Contacting the right person is one of the most critical parts of setting up an informational interview. Rather than going high on the food chain, you’ll want to contact someone in the position or a comparable position to what you hope to hold in the organization. This means making a list of organizations you hope to work for and positions within those organizations you hope to be in.
When is it appropriate to email someone you’ve never met?
Emailing people you haven’t connected with can feel awkward, but it’s almost always acceptable for you to email for an informational interview or to ask questions about an organization you want to work in.
Many people turn to informational interviews when they are in college, hoping to gain experience through an internship or inquire about the possibility of a position when they graduate. You can also set up informational interviews if you’re established in your career and considering a career change.
What to do if they don’t email you back?
While it can be disappointing not to hear back, it’s likely to happen. I would make sure to reach out to a handful of companies, three to five, of different sizes to start with and go from there. After a week or so of no response, respond to your initial email to follow up. Also clarify that you’re not looking for much of their time. Even a 15-20 minute coffee will be helpful. Remember that you’re asking for a favor, so you want to be mindful of their time and energy.
How to structure your email
Keep it simple. With a cold email where they don’t know you, less is more. And make sure to 1) be clear about why you’re reaching out and 2) don’t make it seem like you’re asking for a job (even if you are).
Here’s a little example:
Dear (insert name),
My name is (your name) and I’m a recent graduate from (university). I graduated with my master’s in Public Administration in June and am pursuing a career in city planning. As you’ve been a city planner for (city) for a number of years, I’d love to take you to coffee (or hop on the phone/Zoom) and ask you about your perspective working in city planning. I live locally to (city) and would be happy to meet whenever is convenient for you.
Thank you for your time,
[your name]
Header photo by William Fortunato / Pexels
