As someone who’s been on both sides, searching for jobs and reviewing applicants as a manager, I’ve seen firsthand how a thoughtful message can stand out in a sea of resumes. So, if you’re ready to connect with hiring managers, here’s how to do it like a pro:
1. Do Your Homework
Before you send a message, take a few minutes to learn about the hiring manager. Look at their LinkedIn profile:
- What’s their role?
- What’s their background?
- Do they post about specific topics or company initiatives?
Referencing something specific, like a shared interest or a recent post they made, shows that you’re genuinely interested in them and the role, not just sending a generic message.
💡 Example:
“Hi [Name], I saw your recent post about [topic]. I found it really insightful, especially the part about [specific detail]. It’s great to see leaders sharing such actionable advice.”
2. Keep It Short and Specific
Hiring managers are busy, so your message should get to the point quickly. Avoid long introductions or vague requests. Instead, clearly state why you’re reaching out and what you’re asking for.
💡 Example:
“Hi [Name], I’m really excited about the [Job Title] role at [Company Name]. I’d love to bring my skills in [specific skill] and [specific skill] to your team. If you’re open to it, I’d appreciate a few minutes of your time to share more about the role and what you’re looking for in a candidate.”
3. Personalize Your Pitch
Why are you a great fit for the role? Show that you’ve done your research and tailor your message to highlight the skills or experiences that align with the job.
💡 Example:
“I noticed that the team is working on [specific project or initiative]. In my current role, I worked on something similar and was able to [specific achievement]. I’d be excited to contribute to this work at [Company Name].”
This kind of message shows you’ve thought about how you can add value to the team.
4. Don’t Just Ask for a Job, Build a Connection
One of the biggest mistakes I see is reaching out with nothing more than, “Can you help me get this job?” Instead, focus on building a connection first. Show interest in the company, the team, or the work they’re doing.
💡 Example:
“Hi [Name], I’m inspired by the work your team is doing at [Company Name], especially around [specific project]. I’d love to hear more about your experience leading the [team/project] and any advice you might have for someone looking to contribute to this type of work.”
This approach feels more genuine and less transactional.
5. Follow Up Thoughtfully
If you don’t hear back right away, don’t panic! Hiring managers get a lot of messages, and sometimes it just takes time. A polite follow-up after 7-10 days can help keep the conversation alive.
💡 Example:
“Hi [Name], I just wanted to follow up on my previous message. I’m still really excited about the opportunity to join your team at [Company Name] and would love the chance to connect. Let me know if there’s a good time to chat!”
Remember: persistence is good, but pushiness is not. Keep your follow-ups polite and professional.
What Not to Do
Before you hit “send,” here are a few things to avoid:
❌ Sending a generic message that looks copy-pasted.
❌ Asking for a job outright without showing interest in the company or role.
❌ Writing long, rambling messages (nobody has time for that).
❌ Following up aggressively multiple times in a short span.
A Quick Recap
Here’s how to reach out to hiring managers effectively:
✅ Do your homework, know who they are and what they care about.
✅ Keep your message short, specific, and personalized.
✅ Show how you can add value to the team or role.
✅ Focus on building a genuine connection, not just landing a job.
✅ Follow up politely if you don’t hear back.
The Bottom Line
Reaching out to hiring managers doesn’t have to feel awkward or intimidating. With a little preparation and a thoughtful message, you can stand out as a candidate who truly cares about the role and the company.
So, don’t be afraid to hit “send.” The right message could be the start of an exciting opportunity!
Have you ever reached out to a hiring manager? What’s worked for you? Share your experience in the comments, I’d love to hear about it!
