We’re all social media savvy and sliding into people’s DMs is a no-brainer. However, when it comes to more formal communication, many of us have no clue how to go about things. For example, do you know the right way to introduce yourself via an email? If you’re part of the corporate setup, it’s time you learned.
At HiCounselor, we prepare our candidates for the corporate world by providing resume and interview preparation while we hunt the best jobs for them. We understand the importance of making a good impression from the start. That’s why we’ve created this guide on how to introduce yourself via an email (with example).
Have a good subject line
In their professional lives, people usually receive dozens of emails daily. Most of these aren’t very important and some are just outright spam. This means many emails remain unopened or are sent straight to the trash. If you’re going to introduce yourself via email, make sure the subject line is both clear and catchy. Keep it simple so the recipient knows what it’s about immediately.
Email people, not departments
We now live in a highly connected world where it is very easy to get information from sites like LinkedIn. Ideally, you’ll want to introduce yourself via email to specific people, rather than use a generic HR email ID. If you can build a personal connection with someone, your odds of success increase dramatically. When in doubt, visit the company page on LinkedIn and get information from there.
Use your contacts
It isn’t always possible to create a direct connection with someone already working at the company. You can try an indirect approach and see if you know anyone who knows anyone… Establishing a connection through a common acquaintance is more likely to help you get positive results. If you know someone in common, you can mention them when you introduce yourself via an email.
Be polite
Keep in mind that the way you phrase your need is very important, especially when the other person doesn’t know you from Adam. When you introduce yourself via email, make sure you state your request politely. For example, say “I’d appreciate your assistance” rather than “I need this done fast”. Choosing to stay courteous and polite will get you farther than making demands.
Make it short, clear, & simple
There’s no need to take up more of the recipient’s time than necessary. People like those who get to the point quickly better than those who waste time on small talk. When you introduce yourself via an email, try not to exceed three paragraphs. Keep the paragraphs short; no more than three or four sentences long. A simple introduction followed by your request and then a thanks is enough.
Use a simple style
When you’re introducing yourself via an email, don’t use the font to express your creativity. Use a simple font and don’t use any colors. Usually Arial, Times New Roman, and Calibri are used for professional emails. Keep the point size from 10 to 12 for proper readability. Use a professional greeting, closing, and signature (the last should include all your contact information).
Proofread & edit
When you introduce yourself via email, you want to take the time to double check the text. Grammatical mistakes and typos are common in the first draft. If the recipient sees your email filled with errors, they might think you’re not very professional. It only takes a few minutes to reread the text and make corrections. So, make the effort to make a good first impression on the reader.
Example of an introductory email
There are all kinds of ways you can introduce yourself via an email. Just make sure you stay to-the-point, professional, and polite. Here’s a sample email to help you get started:
Subject Line: Jimmy Shoe Seeking Professional Assistance
Dear Mr Driver,
My name is Jimmy Shoe and I’m reaching out to you for some help. I work for So & So, Inc. and we’re conducting an online survey of employees working from home. The findings will be submitted to This & That agency and will be used to implement better laws and acts.
I’d greatly appreciate it if you could forward the survey to your employees. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to me via email or phone.
Thank you so much for your time.
Best wishes,
Jimmy Shoe
Manager, So & So, Inc.
Phone: 0123456789
Email ID: jimmyshoe@so&so.com
HiCounselor has forged technical advances to transform the hiring landscape for job seekers and recruiters alike. Our career accelerator program provides job seekers with coaching and mentorship from industry leaders employed at FAANG companies while recruiters ally with HiCounselor to empower their hiring strategy and hone in on the best candidates. Learn more about HiCounselor here and reach out to us on LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.
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