Emailing a hiring manager directly — outside of a formal application — 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 — 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 — 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 — 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
4–6 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 — 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 — offer to send it if they are interested.