Free tool · Runs in your browser
Cold email to a recruiter template
Reaching out to a recruiter you have never met? Fill in their name, the company, the role you want and your strongest result, pick whether a role is open, and copy a short, direct email.
Private. Runs in your browser; nothing you type leaves your device.
Your text
Subject:
How to use it
- Fill in the details. Enter the recruiter's name, the company and the role you want, then write one or two sentences about the result that best shows you can do the job. Nothing you type leaves your browser.
- Pick the right version. Use the specific role version when the company has an opening you want. Use the general interest version to introduce yourself when nothing suitable is posted yet but you would like to be considered later.
- Attach, copy and send. Copy the email, attach your resume tailored to the role, and send it from a professional address. If there is no reply after about a week, one short follow-up in the same thread is enough.
Example
What was entered
- Recruiter's name
- Dana
- Company
- Harbor Supply Co.
- Your name
- Marcus Bell
- Role you want
- Operations Manager
- Your strongest result
- For the past four years I have run warehouse operations for a regional distributor, where a new picking process I introduced cut order errors by a third.
Specific open role
Subject: Interest in the Operations Manager role at Harbor Supply Co.
Hi Dana,
I saw that Harbor Supply Co. is hiring for the Operations Manager role, and I wanted to reach out directly because it lines up closely with my experience.
For the past four years I have run warehouse operations for a regional distributor, where a new picking process I introduced cut order errors by a third.
Would you be open to a quick call to see whether my background fits what the hiring manager is looking for? I have attached my resume, and I am happy to apply through your usual process as well.
Thank you for your time,
Marcus Bell
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Frequently asked questions
Is it okay to cold email a recruiter?
Yes. Recruiters are paid to find good candidates, and a short, relevant message can put you on their radar. Keep it brief, show clearly which role you want and why you fit, and make it easy for them to reply or pass you on.
What should a cold email to a recruiter include?
The role you want, one concrete result that proves you can do it, and a simple ask such as a short call. Attach your resume. Leave out your life story; the recruiter needs to see the fit in a few seconds.
Should I also apply through the careers page?
Usually, yes. Applying through the normal process and emailing the recruiter work well together: the application puts you in their system, and the email draws their attention to it. Say in your email that you are happy to apply however they prefer.
Is my information sent anywhere?
No. This template runs in your browser: the email is filled in on this page as you type, and nothing you enter is sent to Applystead or anyone else. You copy the finished text and send it from your own email account.