Kokoon Hotline 📞 How do I write an engaging email to a prospective employer?

Welcome to the Kokoon Hotline for all your burning questions 🔥

From what you’re too scared to ask your manager, the ones you didn’t even think to ask, to everything in between.

Each week, we'll answer a question and give you helpful tools to solve problems.

We are kicking off with one of the most popular question we received:

How do I write an engaging email (one that gets me noticed) to a prospective employer or hiring manager? 💡

Basics first.
To create an email that stands out, focus on two critical components: the subject line and the body. The body should consist of an introduction, main content, call to action, and a signature. Start with the WHY – clearly state your purpose for reaching out.
If there is one thing to remember is be succint. Your email should not be longer than a phone screen (as most people will read on the go), sentences should be a one line max, and your email should be readable in under a minute. Recruiters get inundated with emails so brevity is key!

Now let’s talk about the content. When speaking with a prospective employer, the key is to be yourself. Showcase why you loved the role and why you'd be a perfect fit. Keep it concise by highlighting one or two relevant strengths from the job description. A recommended structure for your email would be:

• Introduce the reason for your email
• Provide a brief introduction to yourself, this can include your education, any notable experience, or a fun fact (have you been a customer of this company for example)
• Explain why you are interested in the role and how you’d be a good fit using one or two key words from the job description
• Close the email with an open invitation, such as "I hope you'll consider my application" or "I'm available for a call anytime next week to discuss further.” If you are emailing before applying for a role you could ask for a quick call to discuss.

Pro tips
📢 Use active voice and keep sentences to a maximum of one line.
👌 Eliminate unnecessary words and repetition to keep your email concise.
📩 Craft a clear and specific subject line, such as "Follow up from interview - [Your Name]" or "Application for [Role] from [Your Name]."
📄 Add a link to your LinkedIn and attach your CV to make it easier for them to find information about you. You can also get creative and use a Loom recording to grab their attention.
🧐 Double-check your email for accuracy, recipients, and any attachments. Spelling mistakes are a big turn-off, so proofread thoroughly.

HOT TIP
An email that got me noticed from the a Head of People 👇

Hi [Name of the head of people]
I hope you don't mind me reaching out. I have applied to your position for [position] at [company], and wanted to send a note to reiterate my interest in the role.

A little bit about myself; I have spent the past 5 years working for large organisations  (WeWork, Amazon) helping them create and scale new programs to support entrepreneurs.

This meant stakeholder alignment, pitching ideas and strategies, creating operational planning, OKRs and making sure teams were aligned.

I am now looking to move to a mission driven startup and take all my learnings to help them scale and prepare for future growth. I've used [the product] back in 2017 when it was just starting and loved the concept.

I hope you consider my application!
Wishing you all the best,
[Your name]