Emailing a hiring manager directly тАФ outside of a formal application тАФ can set you apart. This guide shows how to write a concise, compelling cold email that gets a response.
How to Email a Hiring Manager
1. Find the right person
Use LinkedIn to identify the hiring manager for the role тАФ not HR. Look for the person who would be your direct manager. Search '[company] [role] manager site:linkedin.com' to narrow it down.
2. Find and verify their email address
Use an email finder to locate their professional address. Always verify it with BillionVerify before sending тАФ an email to a non-existent address wastes the attempt and can mark you as spam if it bounces.
3. Write a clear subject line
Keep it specific and role-relevant. 'Experienced product designer тАФ open to a conversation about [Company] role' tells them exactly why you're writing without being clickbait.
4. Lead with your value
The first sentence should explain who you are and why it matters to them. Mention a specific skill, achievement, or shared context. "I led the redesign of [X]'s checkout flow, increasing conversions by 18%" is stronger than a vague intro.
5. Keep it short and end with one ask
4тАУ6 sentences is ideal. End with a single, low-friction ask: "Would you be open to a 15-minute call next week?" Make it easy to say yes.
Tips
- Always verify the email address before sending тАФ bouncing to a hiring manager is a bad first impression.
- Follow up once after 5 business days if you hear nothing.
- Do not attach your CV in the first email тАФ offer to send it if they are interested.