Job search is a stressful process but communication with employers needs to be unemotional and focused. Because there can be hundreds of applicants communicating with an employer, introductory emails and follow up emails need to encourage the hiring manager to take time to read the content without being overwhelming or including unnecessary information.
- Keep it short. Whether you are writing to introduce yourself to a prospective employer or to follow up from a conversation or interview, remember that hiring is probably not the only responsibility the person has in their organization. Time is valuable to everyone and by respecting the amount of time the reader has you will win points.
- Focus on the reader. Write from the viewpoint of ‘what’s in it for the hiring person’ to keep reading.
- Be careful of too much information. Think about your reaction to opening an email with long paragraphs – immediate trash potential. Include the content that will incent the reader to open your resume (for an introduction email) or to have them consider you as a viable professional candidate (for a follow up to an interview).
- Don’t get emotional. Information about how long you have been out of work or how you’ve always wanted to work for the company isn’t going to compel someone to interview you. Be factual and focus on the skills you can bring to the employer.
For more information on how to effectively navigate the job search process, University of Phoenix is providing a free career workshop on August 16th for Phoenix job seekers: http://uopxphxcareerseriesaug.eventbrite.com/
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