How to Reach Out to a Recruiter (2024)

How to Reach Out to a Recruiter (1)

You don’t need to wait for them to come to you.

December 03, 2021

Summary.

Given the current and predicted future growth of job opportunities in the U.S., recruiters can’t hire people fast enough. While we usually think of recruiters as people who reach out to potential candidates, not the other way around, this may be an opportune time to reach out to them proactively if you’re looking for a new job. The author presents three steps to do so in a way that’s targeted and mutually beneficial. First, understand how recruiters work (keeping in mind that they don’t work for you — they work for companies). Second, understand whether you’re approaching an internal or external recruiter. Finally, do your research, and when you’re ready to get in touch, make their jobs easy by letting them know why you would be a good fit for roles in their area of expertise.

Recruiters are your best friends when they see you as a potential fit for a job. They also can be as elusive as a yeti when you’re trying to get their attention because you believe you’re the perfect fit for a job.

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Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Career Management. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.

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How to Reach Out to a Recruiter (6)

Read more on Job search or related topics Career planning and Careers

How to Reach Out to a Recruiter (2024)

FAQs

What should you say when reaching out to a recruiter? ›

Email template

I saw that you were recruiting for the [position] at [company] on [job board or the website where you found their information] and am interested in the position. I've attached my resume and am happy to send over work samples and set up a call to answer any questions you may have about my experience.

How to start a conversation with a recruiter? ›

First impressions count for a lot, so create a rapport with small talk and keep it friendly. A smile on your face is easily conveyed over the phone, recruiters will pick up on the positive energy. As well, using their first name shows you are interested in them.

How to approach a recruiter via email? ›

How to send a recruiter an email
  1. Be direct in your subject line. ...
  2. Greet them by name. ...
  3. Explain how you found their information. ...
  4. Briefly review your experience. ...
  5. Describe your next career goals. ...
  6. Ask to collaborate. ...
  7. Wait for a reply.
Feb 27, 2023

How do you tell a recruiter you are interested in a position? ›

I am particularly interested in [Relevant duty from the job description] and I think I am a great fit for this role. I'd love to chat further about [Company name] and how my skills can contribute to its goals. I've attached my resume, so you can review my experience.

Is it unprofessional to reach out to a recruiter? ›

When done properly, it can be a great way to show your enthusiasm and keep the communication flowing. However, if not done correctly, it can come across as unprofessional or even annoying. Keep these tips in mind when deciding whether or not to text a recruiter.

Is reaching out to recruiters a good idea? ›

“It shows you've done research into them, and likely the role. Plus, it gives a nice, personal touch.” The vast majority of candidates will skip this step, focusing on the role and not the recruiter. However, connecting with a recruiter is as much about building a relationship as it is about applying for a role.

How do you write a short message to a recruiter? ›

How to contact a recruiter through an e-mail
  1. Start with a direct subject line. ...
  2. Address the recruiter by their first name. ...
  3. Explain how you got their e-mail address. ...
  4. Discuss your work experience. ...
  5. Mention your career aspirations. ...
  6. End the e-mail with a call to action (CTA)
Dec 4, 2023

What is the star method when interviewing? ›

“STAR” is an acronym for “Situation-Task-Action-Result.” This method structures your answers to ensure you're highlighting job-relevant skills and showcasing how you used them.

How do you say hello to a recruiter? ›

Note that when addressing a recruiter, “Dear” is the preferred professional greeting, but “Hello” and “Hi” can work too if you're looking to convey a more conversational tone.

What is an example of a message to the recruiter? ›

Hi [Name], I noticed that you're recruiting for [job position], and wanted to inquire to see if you'd had a chance to review my application. I believe my background in [professional experience] and expertise in [skills #1 and #2] make me the perfect candidate for this position.

How do you introduce yourself to a recruiter via email? ›

Introducing yourself in an email
  1. Use an informative subject line. An email subject line is the first thing the recipient will see and will likely affect their decision of whether to open and read the email. ...
  2. Personalize your greeting. ...
  3. Explain why you're reaching out. ...
  4. Include a call to action. ...
  5. Offer thanks and close. ...
  6. Proofread.
Apr 8, 2024

How do you write your first email to a recruiter? ›

Introduction email samples

My name is [your first and last name] and I [include a compliment for the recipient and their company]. I am reaching out to you because [write the reasons for reaching out to them]. I hope to [include your call to action]. Thank you for your time!

How do you politely ask for an opportunity? ›

5 effective ways to ask for a job
  1. Ask for information about the job rather than its availability. ...
  2. Ask for general advice. ...
  3. Focus on building a relationship instead of simply asking about a job. ...
  4. Send or email a letter of interest. ...
  5. Find ways to stand out and be noticed by the hiring manager.
Jul 21, 2022

What to say in an email to a recruiter? ›

I believe that I would be an excellent candidate for the available position, and I'm waiting for the opportunity to meet you in person and discuss how my skills and experience can benefit (name of the company that is offering the position). Thank you for the opportunity.

How do you politely say you are interested in a job? ›

"You all seem like a great team, and I'd be honored to work with you." "I'm very interested in the job, but do you have any concerns as to how well I can perform?" "The work I'd be involved with sounds interesting, I'd love if you could tell me what some next steps are going to be."

How do you reach out to a recruiter after no response? ›

3. Follow-up email after no response
  1. Include the job title you interviewed for in the subject line .
  2. Send this email to the recruiter. ...
  3. Keep your follow-up email to one paragraph, indicating you're still interested in the job and are looking for an update.
  4. Offer to provide additional information if they need it.
Apr 9, 2024

How do you tell your recruiter you want out? ›

Get Specific. If possible, write down everything that isn't working for you about the job — along with what you do like about it — so you can cover all the bases with your recruiter. The more information you can provide, the better equipped they'll be to find you a new job that's a much better fit.

How do you ask a recruiter for an opportunity? ›

Guide to Reaching Out to a Recruiter for Job Opportunities via Email
  1. Subject Line. Choose a clear and specific subject line that conveys your purpose. ...
  2. Greeting. ...
  3. Introduction. ...
  4. Express Interest. ...
  5. Briefly Highlight Qualifications. ...
  6. Request for Information. ...
  7. Express Gratitude. ...
  8. Closing.
Oct 18, 2023

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