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Nov 16, 2022

How to inquire about a job with 12 samples and a template

Here we show you process of sending a job inquiry email, including a list of the essentials you must include

Lawrie Jones

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Need to send a job inquiry?

You’re in the right place, because next we unpack the process of sending a job inquiry email, including a list of the essentials you must include.

Whatever industry you’re in, by following our advice and using our templates, you’ll sound clear and confident when sending your email regarding a job opportunity. 

How to write an email asking about a job

Job opportunities don’t just appear; you’ll have to go searching – and for that, you’ll need to email. We know it can be tough to get the structure, tone, and timing right, which is why we’ve created the internet’s best guide on writing an email asking about a job.

In this guide, we unpack the process of sending a job inquiry email, including a list of the essentials you must include. By following our advice and using our templates, whatever industry you're in, you’ll sound clear and confident when sending your email regarding a job opportunity. 

What to say when emailing about a job

Before we break down what to include when emailing about a job, let’s look at some reasons why you’ll need to send a job inquiry email:

• You’ve seen a job advertised and want more information
• You want to check if applications are still open
• You want to clarify details (such as salary)
• You’re cold-calling to ask if there are any current or future job opportunities
• You know a company is recruiting and want to register your interest
• You’re following up with a recruiter or company after an interview

This isn’t a complete list but does illustrate some of the reasons for sending a job inquiry email. (You can find an additional seven reasons in our job inquiry email samples and templates below.) Now you understand some of the reasons why you might want to send a job inquiry email, here are 5 things you have to do or say when emailing about a job.

1. Job inquiry email checklist

Let’s start with a simple checklist. This list breaks down the essential parts of every job inquiry email. Tick them off as you’re working your way through!

• Short introduction of yourself
• State which job you’re inquiring about (to avoid misunderstanding!)
• Relevant personal information (more on this on the next point)
• Contact details (including preference)
• Offer to answer any questions or provide additional information
• You can attach your cover letter and resume
• Links to relevant social media pages (LinkedIn, Twitter) or portfolio pages

2. Include all relevant contact information

A job inquiry email is about creating a connection, but that won’t be useful unless you include all contact information. You should provide several options, including an email address, phone number, and (if relevant) a LinkedIn profile.

3. Show how you can provide value for the company

It’s important to show that you have relevant skills and experience, but that means nothing if you’re unable to deliver value for the client. When we talk about value, we mean explaining the positive contribution you can have to a business.

If you’re a seller, explain how you’ll sell more. If you’re a customer service expert, explain how you can improve interactions, etc.

The basic principle is that you should use every job inquiry email as an opportunity to highlight quickly why you would be an excellent fit for the role. (But don’t go too far into the details or overload them with information, or you could lose their interest!)

4. Provide a reference (if possible)

Do you have a friend or colleague who could introduce you to someone in the company you’re contacting?

A personal recommendation is a powerful tool in the world of recruitment. It automatically creates a connection and validates you in the eyes of the recruiter.

A recommendation won’t guarantee a job, and you’ll still need to provide a captivating CV and ace the interview, but it can provide a welcome boost.

5. Remember to follow up

Sending a job inquiry email is the start of the process. If you don’t receive a response in a few weeks, then be sure to send a follow-up. This shows you’re enthusiastic and excited about the position. 

When to send a job inquiry follow-up email? We recommend giving the recipient at least a week to respond to your message (and potentially a little longer). Email too soon, and you could appear pushy; too late could make your email perfunctory.

Job inquiry email format

Before we get into our job inquiry samples and template, let’s explain the email formatting process. There are three core parts to your job inquiry emails, the subject, body, and sign-off. You’ll need to get them 100% correct before sending your inquiry.

Here’s our breakdown of the best job inquiry email format.

1. Job inquiry email subject

The subject line is the start of your email and the first thing the recipient will read. Get it wrong, and your email could end up in junk before they’ve even read it.

We’re not going to provide an email subject line masterclass, but our simple tip is to make your email subject line personal, professional, and to the point. It’s something we do in the examples below:

• (Your name) – follow up on interview for (job name) position
• I’ve some questions about the (job name)
• Can you provide some extra information on (job name)?
• I’m (your name), and I’m interested in job roles at (company name)

2. Email body of job inquiry email

We provide more details in our samples, but each job inquiry email should always contain the following information, delivered in (roughly) this order:

• Explain who you are and why you’re emailing (“My name is (your name). I’m emailing you to ask whether you were searching for software developers to join your team?”)
• Be positive and offer value (I’m an experienced software developer with 10+ years’ experience. I excel at helping customers overcome difficulties, and I would love to work with you and some of the amazing businesses you have relationships with…)
• List what supporting information you have (I’ve attached a copy of my CV with this message and a link to my online portfolio and LinkedIn profile so you can learn a little more about me)

3. How to end a job inquiry email

There are two options on how to end a job inquiry email, the right way and the wrong way. You should end each email by setting out the next steps and providing a sign-off. Keep your emails short, but always provide the next steps in the process. 

When building emails, bullet points are much easier to follow. Here is how to end a job inquiry email (in two bullet points).

• Outline next steps (I’m finishing my current contract in the next few months and am looking for opportunities. If you have any, can we schedule a call or Zoom to discuss this? I’ll follow up next week if I don’t receive a reply to this message) 
• Sign-off (I look forward to hearing from you! Thanks, (your name)

How to email someone about a job samples and template

OK, so we’ve come to show you how to put this learning into practice.

Here are 12 email job inquiry example templates that you can read, review and learn from. These templates should cover the major reasons why you’ll want to send an email inquiry. 

If you don’t see the example email about job inquiry that you need, use the tips above and templates below to create your own. In the end, you should always use these templates as a guide to help you craft your own messages and inquiry emails.

12 job inquiry email examples

1. job inquiry email sample.

This is our standard job inquiry email template that embodies all the principles we set out above. It’s simple, clear, and consistent. OK, it’s not the most exciting inquiry email in the world, but it will get the job done (and hopefully take you one step closer to getting the job you want!).

2. How to email about a job opening sample

A typical reason for sending a job inquiry email is to request details on an opening. You’re not sure you want to apply and need some information before you do.

If that’s the case, then this template covering how to email about a job opening is for you.

3. Email a company about a job opportunity sample

This template is similar to the email above but goes to the company. What's the difference, and why does it matter?

You’re dealing with an anonymous email address that multiple people can open and read, so we strip this email back to the basics.

4. Cold email job inquiry sample

Cold job inquiry emails are sent to someone who may not be actively recruiting. They’re a common way to get an early insight into new opportunities and create connections with recruiters.

Here’s a formal cold email job inquiry sample that doesn't try too hard to be familiar or funny (as nobody really likes that).

5. Sample email about job interest

Some recruiters ask you to register interest in a job before they accept applications. Why? This may be a way to strip out those who aren’t suitable from applying, or a way to increase applications.

Either way, this sample email about job interest is the one to send.

6. Job inquiry introduction email sample

A job email inquiry is, as we’ve explained above, a great way to gain an advantage over the competition.

This job inquiry introduction email sample is a request to a connection you already have to recommend you for a role. 

7. Sample follow-up email about job

Sometimes, you need to take the initiative and send a follow-up email about a job inquiry. As you’ll see in this sample email follow-up about a job, we’re brief and get straight to business but also provide some space to add a compliment.

8. Sample email inquiry about a job after interview

You’ll likely have to go through several interview stages before you secure a position, during which you may have several questions about the job, salary, benefits, and more.

This sample email inquiry about a job after an interview is an effective way to ask them while boosting your profile.

9. How to ask for more information about a job email sample

You may have some questions about a position before investing time in creating an application. This job inquiry sample covers how to ask for more information.

10. How to ask questions about a job offer email sample

Hooray, you’ve been offered the job – but you still have questions. So, what do you do?

Here’s how to ask questions about a job offer email template. We’ve provided gaps you’ll need to fill, so make sure you do them before sending!

11. Job-status inquiry email sample

The recruitment process has several stages and can be very slow. This job-status inquiry sample is a positive way of giving the recruiter a gentle push forward. Again, it’s important to adapt this template to fit your circumstances and personality.

12. How to write an email asking about a job vacancy

Another common email inquiry is to ask for information on a vacancy. You may want to know about pay, conditions, benefits, or flexible working options.

Whatever the reason, here’s how to write an email asking about a job vacancy. 

Job inquiry email template

We hope you’ve found the job inquiry email samples above useful. If you’re looking for a basic job inquiry email template to base your messages on, this one is for you. Copy, paste, edit, and update. Fill in the gaps, and be sure to proofread before sending!

Flowrite email template for job inquiry

There is no 100% right or wrong way to send a job inquiry, but having an effective email template, using proper grammar, and email format will help, as you need to most likely send many, many emails to land your dream job.

This is where Flowrite comes in. Flowrite's AI-powered smart templates can help you craft better emails, ensure top notch grammar and nail the correct format, every single email .

Our tool turns your words into ready-to-send emails using artificial intelligence, like this:

Final words on job inquiries

Learning how to write job inquiry emails is an integral part of searching for a job and securing one!

We hope our guide has helped answer your questions and provided some useful insights. The core of a great job inquiry email is to show enthusiasm and excitement while ensuring you’ve included all the essential elements.

Don’t try to be too creative; just be clear and get to the point. If you get stuck, follow our templates or (even better) use Flowrite!

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How to Write a Job Inquiry

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What is a job inquiry?

• Why write a job inquiry?

How to write a job inquiry

Job inquiry example.

A properly written job inquiry can give your career a boost. There are many essential items that need to be included in this type of inquiry. Learning to write this letter of interest effectively can provide several professional advantages. This article discusses the key features of a job inquiry and shows you how to write an effective one.  

A job inquiry, which is also called a letter of interest or a prospecting letter, is communication that you send to an employer about an employment opportunity before a job opening is advertised. This query expresses your genuine interest in working for a company, summarizes your professional profile and makes a polite request for information about any future vacancies.

Why write a job inquiry? 

There are several reasons why writing a job inquiry is important, such as: 

• It can get hiring managers to notice you.  Although the position you are inquiring about is unavailable, a job inquiry communicates your interest in working for the company. Making a good impression through an inquiry can capture the attention of the hiring manager, which can lead to a job opportunity in the future.
• It can develop your professional network. Making a job inquiry can give you opportunities to make new contacts with decision-makers in the company. For example, you can use the response you receive to your inquiry to start building a relationship with an influential decision-maker by continuing the conversation or keeping your contact updated with your progress.
• It can help you to get an informational interview. A company that is not currently hiring could invite you for an informational interview to learn about the opportunities it offers. This type of interview can give you a great opportunity to gain an insider’s view of the company. 
• It can help you to access the hidden job market. There are many great job openings that are not advertised by employers for many reasons, such as the need to reduce the costs of the recruitment process and the need to keep the hiring process private. Writing a job inquiry is one of the ways in which you can access these hidden jobs.

To write an effective job inquiry, consider using the following steps:

1. First, research the companies you are interested in

While a job inquiry does not require an advertised job opening, you should address it to a company in which you can realistically expect a job opening in the immediate future, so avoid sending it to companies that are unlikely to have vacancies such as firms that are affected by serious financial setbacks or those that are downsizing in your career field. 

2. Next, find the right contact person

Once you have identified your preferred company or companies, you need to find the right contact person for each of your job inquiries. Keep in mind that your inquiry is likely to be more successful if you have already begun to build a relationship with your contact before you send it. Consider the following practical tips to find the right contact: 

• Read industry news. You can use the local and international news about your industry to identify the companies that interest you. Make a list of your preferred companies and their key decision-makers.
• Use professional networking. You can use the online professional networking platforms to learn about the influential employees, such as department heads, in the companies you want to work in. Consider using a news alert service to find out about these professionals and their progress.
• Make contact. Once you have some background information about potential contacts, seek opportunities to meet them in person. For example, if you see an interview of a decision-maker in your preferred company, send a note expressing your interest in that person’s ideas with an invitation to meet to discuss them further.
• Visit industry events. Go to industry events, such as job fairs and conferences, and use your background research to make a good impression on hiring managers. Develop a personalized strategy to approach each contact before you attend an industry event. 

3. Third, develop an outline

Write an outline for your job inquiry before writing it. Your outline should contain the following essential items: 

• A salutation with the name of your contact, such as, ‘Dear Mr. Talley’
• An expression of interest in the career achievements of your contact
• A statement of why working in the company interests you
• A summary of your skill set and experience 
• A statement of how your abilities could complement the company
• A request for an interview
• A formal closing

4. Then, write the inquiry

Use your outline to write your job inquiry. Be sure to include all the relevant details and the essential items, yet keep your communication brief.

5. Finally, check your work

In order for you to benefit from writing a job inquiry, it should be well-written. Proofread your inquiry the day after you write it to benefit from a fresh perspective and correct any errors. Double-check the address and send it to your contact.

Consider using the following job inquiry sample as a guide to writing an effective query:

Dear Ms. Talbot, 

I have followed your career in the advertising industry through your contributions to the success of Creatives Inc. and Richfield Marketing. Meeting you in person at the Insight convention in July was the realization of a long-term goal. Due to its socially-aware and innovative work, I am an ardent follower of Richfield, and its Instagram. I am writing to inquire whether you are planning on hiring a new designer for your team at Richfield.

Having honed my design skills in Adobe Creative Suite and HTML5 at SmartMinds and Web Traffic Inc., where I am a Senior Graphic Designer, I am eager to find an employment opportunity in which I can leverage my communication, customer service and time management skills as well as my expertise in developing campaigns that trigger social change. I believe that I can put my skills and experience to work at Richfield.

I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to meet with you and get your insights on where my abilities could be utilized in your department, and I hope to hear from you soon.

Best regards,  Fred O’Malley

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How To Write A Letter Of Inquiry (With Examples)

• Introduce Yourself In An Email
• How To End An Email
• Email Etiquette
• Emailing A Resume
• How To Cold Email
• Warm Regards
• How To Write A Letter Of Inquiry

Find a Job You Really Want In

If you’re job searching for the career of your dreams , writing a letter of inquiry, also often called an LOI or a job inquiry letter, can be a great way to stand out, network with professionals in your field, find qualifying open positions, and, eventually, get hired to do work you love.

A letter of inquiry is especially important if you’re looking to work at a specific company or in a specific role. Being proactive and notifying an employer, hiring manager , or corporation of your interest through a job inquiry letter can greatly benefit you during your job search and throughout the onboarding and hiring processes .

The letter of inquiry template and tips outlined in this article can prove instrumental in writing a professional job inquiry letter and landing a top-paying and rewarding career for job-seekers searching for occupations in specific fields or at a specified business or corporation.

Key Takeaways:

Writing a letter of inquiry tends to be a more proactive way for job seekers to establish a positive professional relationship with individuals , teams, and companies they’re interested in working with.

Instead of waiting for job advertisements to be posted online or on public job boards, a letter of inquiry goes right to the source and can be a great method of finding your next career job before the competition.

It’s usually best to send your letter of inquiry a few weeks before that hiring season or before your graduation if you are a high school or college graduate.

What Is a Letter of Inquiry?

How to write a letter of inquiry, example of a letter of inquiry, when to send a letter of inquiry, letter of inquiry tips, final thoughts.

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A letter of inquiry refers to a professional document sent by a job seeker to an employer or hiring manager which references an individual’s professional skills and qualifications and explicitly asks if there are any job openings within the company.

A job inquiry letter is a great platform for both highlighting your professional expertise and explaining how you could benefit the company you’re inquiring with. Similar to a cover letter , in a letter of inquiry, job seekers should aim to tell hiring managers why they’re the best-suited candidate for any potential job openings.

Unlike a cover letter, which is typically sent to an employer along with a formal job application for a position that is already posted on their website or a public job site, a letter of inquiry is sent before a position becomes vacant or a company begins accepting applicants for open roles.

The purpose of a letter of inquiry is to contact employers who may be hiring but don’t necessarily have active job postings , so it’s important to put your best foot forward and use your LOI to stand out and, hopefully, be considered for employment.

The best letters of inquiry reiterate the qualifications and experiences listed on your resume and serve to convey your personality, work style , and professional goals while explaining your enthusiasm and excitement at the opportunity to work in a specific role or at a specific company.

Just like a professional office letter, your letter of inquiry should be clean, concise, and professional. An effective job inquiry letter will bring your skills , qualifications, and previous relevant experience to life and successfully summarize and capture your enthusiasm and passion.

Generally, your job inquiry letter should be a one-page correspondence that highlights your key qualifications and explains how you could benefit the business or organization. The trick to writing a perfect inquiry letter is properly structuring the professional document so that it is both easy to read and informative.

A great letter of inquiry is typically composed of:

Header. This will include a header in which you professionally address the hiring manager, supervisor , or employer.

Introduction. A compelling and memorable introduction paragraph in which you clearly express your interest in employment. This can include the name of your organization, how much money you are requesting and description of the project.

Body paragraph. A dense body paragraph that focuses on your skills and qualifications, interest in the company, and how you could benefit the business. This is where you will list projects that your organizations has already completed successfully.

Include a need statement and need solution. Your need statement will be in the body of the paragraph and it will explain the reason your organization needs the funding.

Your need solution will be after the need statement. This will include how your organization plans to respond to the needs that you have already identified.

Conclusion. This should include a brief summary which restates the main points of your letter. This is also where you will thank the recipient for their consideration. Include your contact information and any attachments.

Generally, job inquiry letters, like professional cover letters , should be between three and four paragraphs long — and less than one page. The business document should also be formatted with standard one-inch page margins and written in a generic font.

If you’re on the hunt for a rewarding career in your field of expertise, writing a professional letter of inquiry is a great way of networking with industry professionals and finding your dream job.

Using a letter of inquiry template when composing and submitting your LOI could help you get hired by companies across nearly professional industries.

Here’s a great example of a professional and properly formatted letter of inquiry:

William Francis Hiring Manager RAP Properties 22 Sycamore Drive New York, NY 10077 Dear Mr. Francis, I have been following the recent growth of the business after the launch of your new apartment complex in Queens. I am writing to express my sincere interest in working with the property management team at RAP Properties. I have several years of professional property management experience at The Whitney Apartments and am confident that my skills and abilities would be a great asset to RAP Properties. During the entirety of my role as a property manager at The Whitney Apartments, I have had zero vacancies and steady positive approval ratings from both residents and senior management. Additionally, revenue streams have increased more than 60 percent over the five years I have been part of The Whitney team. I have a proven record of managing 100 plus unit apartment complexes, supervising employees, preparing budgets, processing applications, and working closely with residents and maintenance, security , and professional personnel to ensure clean, safe, and properly run properties. I am excited to discuss further how my qualifications could benefit RAP Properties and hope that you can add my name to your list of potential candidates for future property management positions. Thank you so much for your time and consideration. Kind regards, Maggie Lynch (917) 924-9870 [email protected]

Figuring out when to send a letter of inquiry is almost as important as sending the letter itself.

Depending on the field you’re seeking employment in, where you are in your career, or the company you’re inquiring with, there can be a right and wrong time to send a job inquiry letter.

If you work in a field where hiring typically occurs around a specific time each year, like a teacher, camp counselor , or seasonal employee, it’s usually best to send your letter of inquiry a few weeks before that hiring season.

Likewise, if you’re graduating college, high school, or any other professional certification course, it’s also a great idea to send your inquiry letters out a few weeks before graduating.

For most other careers, where hiring doesn’t necessarily happen on a specific schedule, it may be a good idea to research the company and its employees and check out their competition to predict when they may start hiring and send your inquiry letter out accordingly.

When writing a well-formatted, clean, and concise letter of inquiry, it’s important to stay professional and on track, structure your letter appropriately, be bold and confident, and send your letter to the best-suited individual at the company you’re inquiring with.

To help you ace your letter of inquiry and bring you one step closer to getting hired, we’ve rounded up some of the top tips you should follow when writing your job inquiry letter.

Here are the top five tips you should follow when writing a letter of inquiry:

Find the best person in the company to send your letter of inquiry. When sending a professional letter of inquiry, it’s essential to address the document to an individual at the company, rather than addressing it to “hiring manager” or “ whom it may concern .”

Addressing your inquiry letter to a team member, employer, supervisor, or human resources professional will ensure that the letter reaches the intended individual and has the biggest impact. Researching the company before sending your letter is imperative.

Depending on the type of role you’re inquiring about, it may be a good idea to send your letter of inquiry to a team leader, department supervisor , or the company’s recruiter or human resources director . Once you determine who to send your letter to, be sure to professionally address them using the correct title and their full first and last name.

Structure your letter appropriately. Appropriately structuring your job inquiry letter is the best way of making a lasting first impression and eliciting the intended response. Just like a cover letter, you would include in a formal job application, a letter of inquiry should be composed similarly to a professional business letter .

As such, a letter of inquiry should be formatted with standard one-inch page margins, written in a generic font, like Times New Roman, and organized into well-structured and grammatically correct sentences and paragraphs.

When structuring your letter of inquiry, it’s important to include a professional header, a compelling and memorable first paragraph, an introduction, a dense body paragraph focusing on your qualifications and interest in the company.

It will also need a conclusion that offers a proposal, asks for a job interview, or shows interest, an appropriate salutation, and, finally, a professional signature that includes your best contact information.<

Stay on track. It’s important to stay focused and remember your primary goal for inquiring with a specific company when composing a letter of inquiry. Staying on track will ensure that your inquiry letter is clear, concise, and to the point, which, in turn, will have the biggest impact on hiring managers and prospective employers.

One of the best ways to stay on track when writing a letter of inquiry is to explicitly explain why you’re interested in the company and ask if there are any upcoming job openings that you may be a good fit for.

Clearly highlighting your qualifications and briefly explaining your professional abilities and industry experience is also a great way of illustrating your work style and skill level, which can help you make a great first impression and bring you one step closer to getting hired.

Be bold, confident, and professional. The perfect letter of inquiry should be bold and exude confidence and professionalism . Explicitly asking for an interview and clearly explaining how you would benefit the company by referencing your top-notch skills and qualifications will ensure your inquiry letter is sharp, distinct, and eye-catching.

Conveying confidence in your skills and abilities and remaining professional throughout your inquiry letter by appropriately structuring the document and addressing the hiring manager, supervisor, or employer will help you get notices and make a lasting first impression.

Proofread. Job-seekers writing inquiry letters should always double-check their LOI before submitting it to a company. Proofreading will help eliminate typos and grammatical errors and ensure you put your best foot forward and make a lasting first impression.

Don’t be afraid to follow up. Sometimes, even the best letters of inquiry go unanswered. But, just as you were proactive when writing and sending your inquiry letter, it’s important to be proactive afterward as well.

If you don’t hear back from a company after sending an inquiry letter, don’t be afraid to follow up with them to ensure they received your letter and further express your interest in working with them.

Generally, following up after sending a job inquiry letter only increases your chances of securing an interview as it shows your commitment and enthusiasm for the company. If you don’t hear back from a company after inquiring with them, sending an email or making a quick phone call a few weeks after sending your letter may be a good idea.

Writing a perfectly formatted, grammatically correct, and compelling letter of inquiry can prove essential in getting noticed by professionals in your field and eventually getting hired by the company of your dreams.

Clearly communicating your interest and noting your most desirable professional and technical skills and qualifications in your letter of inquiry will help you make a positive and lasting first impression on hiring managers and prospective employers and can ultimately bring you one step closer to landing your dream position.

By using the tips and template provided in this article, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a perfect job inquiry letter.

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Elsie is an experienced writer, reporter, and content creator. As a leader in her field, Elsie is best known for her work as a Reporter for The Southampton Press, but she can also be credited with contributions to Long Island Pulse Magazine and Hamptons Online. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from Stony Brook University and currently resides in Franklin, Tennessee.

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How to Write a Job Inquiry Email That Will Get You Noticed (+ Templates)

11 min read

Are you in the market for a new job, but struggling to find advertised openings in your field? If so, then you should consider a more proactive approach and start sending out job inquiry emails. Sending a job inquiry email can sometimes be a great way to identify potential employment opportunities that you might not otherwise encounter. Of course, to get any real benefit from this strategy, you will need to learn more about how to create and use this powerful tool.

In this post, we will examine the job inquiry email, explain some of the benefits of using these inquiry letters, and provide some tips to help you write your own so that you get noticed by prospective employers. In addition, we will provide a couple of great templates that you can customize to fit your own needs.

What is a job inquiry email?

A job inquiry email is a great tool to use when you’re trying to get your resume out to companies that may not yet be actively looking for new hires. Contrary to what some job seekers assume, companies don’t always post job ads as soon as an open position becomes available.

By writing a job inquiry to companies before they’ve had a chance to begin looking for candidates, you can give yourself a head start on your job-seeking competition.

Job inquiry emails are exactly what they sound like. They are unsolicited letters that request information about potential job openings. This type of email can be a useful tool to get you noticed by employers – even when they are not yet ready to hire. They are also a great way for you to express interest in working for a firm that may not currently be looking for someone with your skill set. Sometimes, that simple line of inquiry can pave the way toward future opportunities with the company.

Why send a job inquiry email?

Obviously, the main purpose of sending a job inquiry email is to find out whether a company currently has any unadvertised job openings or may soon be looking for new hires. There are other important reasons to use these inquiries, however, and they can all benefit your job search and career advancement. 

For example:

It demonstrates initiative

Companies are always looking for job candidates who are self-starters and capable of demonstrating initiative in their jobs and careers. By proactively reaching out to an employer, you can show that you’re really interested in working for their company and motivated enough to do more than passively submit a resume. By sending an inquiry email, you’re letting that employer know that you’re willing to invest the time and effort needed to join their team.

It can help you stand out from the crowd

In a competitive labor market, it’s easy to get lost in a crowd of rival job candidates. When you simply submit your resume to employers, you’re running the risk that your application will just be one of dozens or even hundreds of similar submissions. And since the odds are good that most of the other candidates will have resumes that – at least on paper – meet the job’s required qualifications, your chances of standing out as the best person for the job may be reduced. An inquiry email may increase those odds.

An inquiry email can increase the chances that your resume gets seen by hiring managers

Many of today’s companies utilize applicant tracking systems (ATS) that automatically screen resumes to ensure that candidates fulfill the position’s requirements. If your resume isn’t optimized properly for the ATS scan, there’s a good chance that hiring managers may never see it. By sending a job inquiry email that includes a copy of your resume, you can bypass the ATS and make sure that you get your application in front of human eyes.

How do you write job inquiry emails?

Writing an effective job inquiry email may not be the most difficult thing in the world, but there are some basic things that you need to remember. Below, we’ve included some useful tips you can incorporate into your job inquiry email strategy to increase your chances of seeing positive results from your efforts.

Do your homework

No matter how much you think you know about an employer, always make sure that you do some research before you make any contact with them. This can help you identify key aspects of their mission and values that align with your skills and personal goals. This can help you tailor your job inquiry letter to the firm and make it more engaging for the reader. You should also try to identify the right contact person so that your email doesn’t get lost in some generic company account.

Sure, you could just write one of those “to whom it may concern” or “dear sir or madam” letters, but put yourself in the company’s shoes. If you were a hiring manager or employer, would that approach really spark your interest? Probably not. Instead, you should take the time to search for the company on LinkedIn and try to locate someone in human resources or management. Alternatively, you could just call the company and ask.

Be professional

Make sure that you focus on being as professional as possible when you craft this job inquiry email. Formal language is a must if you want to ensure that they see you as the professional you are. Be respectful, appreciative, and direct about what you are trying to achieve. You may also want to try to put yourself in their shoes by imagining how they might perceive your tone and message. If it seems too unprofessional to you, chances are that they will come away with that same impression.

Take your time

Avoid the impulse to fire off a quick message to the employer. You should take your time and create a draft version of your message first. Then set it aside and come back to it in a day or two so that you look at it with fresh eyes. Make any needed changes to refine your message, proofread it several times, and then read it aloud to make sure that it has the right tone. Don’t be afraid to remove any information that detracts from your core message. Remember, this is your first chance to make a great impression.

Make sure your opening is strong

Most employers are busy people, so you’ll likely only have a few seconds to capture their attention with your email’s opening. You’ll need to briefly introduce yourself and clearly state your reason for contacting them. To achieve that goal, you’ll need to state your name and explain why you’re interested in learning about potential employment opportunities with their company.

Send your resume as an attachment

Though your email should mention your most relevant qualifications, you should also send your resume and a separate cover letter, too. That will ensure your respondent has immediate access to the document if they have any additional questions about your abilities. Moreover, it can be a great way to get your resume on file with the employer without going through an ATS or waiting for them to advertise an open position.

Your job inquiry letter should include the following information:

Information about how you learned about the company

A brief explanation about why you’re interested in working for them

Details about how your specific skill set and experience can enrich that company if you’re hired

A call to action, or details about when and how you will follow up on the letter

Your contact information

Later in this post, we’ll provide some templates you can use as guides to create your own inquiries. Note that there are several different ways to accomplish your goals, depending on your unique situation and needs.

Should you send a job inquiry email or a letter?

You have a couple of options when it comes to sending your job inquiry letters. The first is to mail a printed copy of your letter, along with a chronological resume, to the contact person. This has the advantage of being both traditional and professional. It also ensures that human eyes will see the submission. Alternatively, you could send it via email. 

In most instances, however, you should opt for the job inquiry email rather than a printed letter. Just make sure that you do everything you can to identify the right contact person so that your email submission has the best chance of receiving an audience.

Job inquiry email and mail templates

Here are two sample job inquiry templates that you can use as guides to create your own inquiries. The first can be an effective option when you need to send an email inquiry. The second can be used for the more traditional postal submission.

Example template: job inquiry email

With an email submission, you can typically skip the otherwise-obligatory contact heading details, and instead get right to the matter at hand. It is still important to ensure that the presentation is professional, well-organized, and informative. For example:

Subject Line: Letter of Introduction and Job Inquiry – [Your Name]

Dear [Contact Name],

Thank you for taking the time to consider my job inquiry. I have been following your company for several years and have been impressed with its growth and innovative success.

I’ve been employed in the [company’s industry] industry for [number of years] years and am currently interested in applying my skills and experience in new and creative ways. I believe that my unique skill set can be of real value to [company name] and help fuel its continued success for years to come.

I have been employed as a [job title or titles] for more than [number of years] years. Over the course of my career, I have consistently strived to advance company goals, increase productivity, and enhance the work environment. In my current job, I have successfully overseen [list one or two specific accomplishments that have improved the company]. I am hopeful that I can bring those types of benefits to your organization as well.

It would be my great honor to meet with you to discuss potential job openings and career opportunities at [company name] and how my skills might benefit the firm. I am prepared to provide any other details you might need in anticipation of such a visit.

I eagerly look forward to your response.

Email Address

LinkedIn Profile URL

Phone Number

You should add your resume as an attachment to this email as well to give your recipient more information about your skills and background up front. Just make sure that your attached resume is optimized for both the hiring manager and the ATS.

Example template: job inquiry letter

With the mailed or hand-delivered letter option, you should pay attention to standard letter guidelines regarding formatting. That will help ensure the letter you send showcases your professionalism and attention to detail. That means using the right contact information presentation and including a standard greeting and close. For example:

[Your Name]

[City, State, Zip]

[Phone Number]

[Email Address]

[Company Name]

[Company Contact Name]

[Contact Title]

[City, State, Zip Code]

[ Dear Mr./Ms.] [Contact Name],

Thank you for reviewing my resume. I have been employed in the [industry name] industry for [length of experience] years and have watched your company’s progress and success with interest. Currently, I am looking for new opportunities and challenges in the industry, and your company’s name was the first one that came to mind.

It would be an honor to work with your team, as I have heard nothing but glowing reviews about [company name]. I am confident that my experience and proven value can contribute to your firm’s continued success in the future and hope that you will consider me for any potential job opening.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me at [phone number] or [email address] if you have any questions about my resume or qualifications. I hope to hear from you soon and look forward to having the opportunity to discuss a possible future with your great firm.

[Signature]

Is it worth your time and effort?

The process of creating and sending out job inquiry emails or letters is time-consuming, and there’s no guarantee of success. However, the potential benefits can be enormous.

If you’re serious about landing that dream job, writing a job inquiry email can be a better option than waiting for that company to announce an open position. So, be proactive and take control of your own job search efforts. This could be just what you need to finally land that great job you’ve been looking for.

Do you want to make sure that your resume is good enough to send with your job inquiry email? Get a free resume review from our team of experts today!

Recommended reading:

Best Email Subject Lines When Sending a Resume (+ Examples)

Why Is It So Hard to Find a Job? (+ 5 Tips)

How to Ask for a Job Referral + 5 Templates

Ken Chase, Freelance Writer

During Ken's two decades as a freelance writer, he has covered everything from banking and fintech to business management and the entertainment industry. His true passion, however, has always been focused on helping others achieve their career goals with timely job search and interview advice or the occasional resume consultation. When he's not working, Ken can usually be found adventuring with family and friends or playing fetch with his demanding German Shepherd. Read more resume advice from Ken on  ZipJob’s blog .

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How to Write a Job Inquiry Email That Will Get You Noticed [Templates Included]

In This Guide:

What is a job inquiry email?"?

Reasons to write one

How to write a successful job inquiry email, major takeaways.

Maybe you've been searching for a new job for a while with little success, or you've been daydreaming about a new job at a company that you'd love.

You may have the experience and skills to get your dream job, but the first thing that you need to do is to step outside your comfort zone and reach out to a hiring manager.

If you're ready to take the first steps to look for a new job, a job inquiry email may be exactly what you need to open up to new possibilities. Jobseekers use these letters to learn a little more about job openings and to introduce themselves to hiring managers.

In this article, we will discuss:

• What is a job inquiry email?
• How to write a successful job inquiry letter
• Example inquiry emails

Regardless of where you are in the hiring process, it would benefit you greatly to speak to a career counsellor at Enhancv . Our career counselors can offer you tips and advice as you reach out to potential hiring managers.

What is a job inquiry email?"?

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A job inquiry email is a formal correspondence between job applicants and hiring managers. They are one of the best ways to introduce yourself, showing that you have a genuine interest in the advertised job openings.

Effectively, it allows you to put your foot in the door by reaching out directly to companies looking to hire new staff.

Job inquiry emails follow a similar template to other formal correspondences like cover letters , but are primarily focused on a specific job opening. The best job inquiry emails introduce a job applicant, briefly explain the applicant's experience, provide an attached resume, and‌ end by asking for a job interview.

Differentiate yourself from other applicants

Human resources departments receive lots of different resumes for an open position. It can be hard to differentiate between the different people who are applying for the position just by looking at the resumes.

However, by writing a job inquiry email, you're able to differentiate yourself from other applicants who are applying for the position and make yourself look unique . Effectively, it shows that you are interested in the position, and would like to add a personal touch to the email.

No longer are you just a name on a piece of paper, but ‌you're somebody who's communicating and reaching out to a hiring manager, showing initiative and stepping out of your comfort zone. This go-getter mentality can actually create a great first impression with a hiring manager.

Deliver your resume directly to a hiring manager

It also allows you to get your resume in front of the person who needs to read it. Companies sometimes use specialized software to sift through resumes, but if you reach out to a specific contact person, then you're handing your resume directly to the person who needs to read it.

Find job openings that haven't been advertised yet

Sometimes, companies will hire for a position but have yet to advertise for the role. You may have learned about the role through word-of-mouth from somebody you know within the organization, and this may give you the opportunity to be the first person to apply for the position.

1. Start by doing some research

When you're looking to create a specific inquiry email, research a little about the company to gain an understanding of the company's values, vision, and culture. You don't want to create a generic email, but ‌create a pointed, specific email with information gleaned from these sources:

• Their website
• The Job description
• A company's social media accounts

2. Write and edit in drafts

If you want your job inquiry email to turn out well, then it's best to write multiple drafts of the email to get it exactly how you want it. It’s best to write the first draft, then sleep on it and edit it the next day.

By creating distance between you and the email, you'll be able to assess it objectively and create a more clear and concise letter. Also, be sure to check for spelling and grammar mistakes in order to create a professional email.

3. Create an engaging subject line

A subject line hooks the attention of the contact person, and a great subject line can help you get one step closer to receiving an interview. Alternatively, a bad subject line may cause your email to not be opened. Here are three tips to create a clear and concise subject line:

• Example: Referred to the sales executive position by Dan Driedger, Sales Manager
• Example: Sales Manager with 7 years of experience
• Example: Dianne Werkesma — B2B Content Specialist

4. Follow a format

Just like any other formal correspondence, job inquiry emails follow a specific format to maximize the impact of the letter. Below, you can find the specific format to follow when drafting a job inquiry email:

• Subject line
• Salutation: Salutations are a typical part of any formal letter. Try your best to track down the actual name of the hiring manager, rather than using a generic greeting like "Dear Sir or Madam".
• Introduction paragraph: In your first body paragraph, introduce yourself. Be concise, and explain your previous work experience, where you heard about the job openings, as well as mentioning anyone from your professional network who referred you to the position. You can also mention your interest in the company's progress and your passion to work for the company.
• A brief explanation of skills and experience: Your second paragraph can be an opportunity for you to share about the skills and abilities that you bring to the table when applying for a position.
• Closing statement: this is an opportunity for you to write a call to action for your hiring manager. Provide them with more detail of ways to reach you, and mention your availability to interview for this position or other job openings.
• Complimentary close and professional email signature: The last section of any letter is a complimentary close and signature. This would include endings such as, "Thanks," "All the best," and "Sincerely, " followed by your name and any further contact information. You may choose to include your phone number, another business email, your LinkedIn profile, and a personal website.

Job inquiry email with a mutual connection

Sometimes, you have an ‘in’ with the company that you are applying for, someone who is a mutual connection between you and a hiring manager. Below, you'll find a job inquiry email which highlights a situation where you from referred to a position by someone else:

Subject: Referred to the Marketing Director Position by Sarah Keddy

Dear Kevin McAllister,

My previous boss, Sarah Keddy, mentioned the job opportunity at Vandoken Media corporation in the marketing department. Over the last four years, I've watched your company rise to become one of the leading media corporations within Michigan, and I particularly admire your passion for seeking to get to the bottom of all news stories.

I'm currently a marketing manager at Michigan Direct News, a monthly newspaper with a circulation of 20,000 people. I've grown a lot in this position, specifically learning how to build rapport with clients, effectively cold email potential customers, and persuasively share the real benefit of having news at your fingertips. But I'm interested in finding a new position that would allow me to develop new skills and grow in my career.

Attached to this email, you can find a resume and cover letter for the marketing manager's position . I would love to discuss how I can be an asset to your company, and I look forward to setting up an interview for this position.

Dwayne Simpson

P:384-555-5675

What works well in this letter:

One thing that works really well in this email is that right up front, the writer of the email shares a mutual contact between the hiring manager and themselves right there in the subject line of the email. This can create immediate engagement for the recipient of the email, which can help you to get a quick response.

Also, the job applicant mentions their professional credentials, proving to the letter's recipient that they provide real value to their company.

Cold email job inquiry letter

Sending a job inquiry email can be difficult enough when you share a mutual connection with the hiring manager. However, it may seem downright scary to send a cold email, one where you're reaching out without someone referring you to the position. Let's look at an example of a cold email job inquiry letter:

Subject line: Dianne Werkesma — B2B Content Specialist

Hello Shannon Tuttle,

My name is Dianne Werkesma, and I am applying for the Lead Content Specialist position at Advance Content Marketing. I've been following your blog posts both on your company's website and your social media platforms, and I've learned a lot about how to harness search engine optimization principles to write high-ranking content for business-to-business websites.

I particularly specialize in writing engaging copy for Software as a Service (SaaS) companies. Over the past four years, I’ve honed my abilities in content marketing , and I pride myself on my ability to condense hard-to-understand computer jargon into blog posts and articles which average customers can understand. Besides content marketing, I have over a decade's experience as an IT technician and developer. You find a link to my portfolio here [website link].

I'd love to meet with you to discuss this position in more detail, so reach out to me through email. Thank you so much for taking the time out of your day to read my email inquiring about this position.

All the best,

Dianne Wekesma

What does this email do well?

One of the best things that this email does is provide a broad overview of the skills and abilities of the job applicant. She is a competent content writer, as well as an IT specialist. Both details show the hiring manager that this person is an ideal candidate.

• There are a lot of good reasons to send a job inquiry email, like making your resume stick out among other job applications.
• Job inquiry emails follow a specific format, including providing an appropriate salutation and ending with an email signature.
• The best job inquiry letters provide a brief description of your skills and experience.

Inquiry emails can only get you so far when searching for job opportunities, and that's why you should reach out to a career counselor from Enhancv. From how to prepare for an informational interview to discerning how to narrow down your job search, a counselor can allow you to see all career opportunities available to you.

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How to Compose a Job Inquiry Email (With Sample & Template)

Job inquiry emails demonstrate your desire to work in the organization, whether or not there are any openings. Job inquiry emails are a wonderful approach to interact with businesses for potential employment when passively looking for work. Your résumé will be kept on file, and you’ll be contacted if your qualifications match their requirements.

There are other places to hunt for employment prospects outside job boards. Nowadays, a lot of businesses look for new employees via their social media profiles, websites, and other internet tools. Consider writing to a company to ask about job openings if you are interested in working for them but are unsure of whether they’re recruiting for a position that suits your qualifications.

In this post, we’ll go over what a job inquiry email is, why it’s crucial, and how to construct one using an example.

Table of Contents

What is the definition of a job inquiry email?

Emails sent to companies with unlisted job openings are known as job inquiry emails. Job applicants include their resumes, describe their qualifications, and indicate their desire in working for the organization inside these communications. An employer is more inclined to see your resume when there are no openings. As soon as the business starts conducting interviews to fill open positions, they save the resumes they like to a file.

Due to its resemblance to a cover letter about style and content, an inquiry for a job opening is sometimes referred to as an inquiry cover letter. The primary distinction is that it’s presented to an employer unsolicited or in the manner of a cold email. You can significantly improve your chances of being invited for an interview by developing a strong cover letter.

Why would you send a job inquiry email?

One effective technique to introduce yourself to a firm and build a relationship is by writing a job inquiry email. By submitting an uninvited inquiry, you demonstrate your sincere interest in the organization and position yourself as a more desirable candidate. Additionally, you can take advantage of the email to arrange a meeting to ask more questions about the position and talk about where you could fit in. Mailing a job inquiry email places your identity and qualifications in front of that company for potential employment even if they don’t currently have positions available, or perhaps none in your field of expertise.

How to craft a job inquiry email

While it’s simple to write a job inquiry email, it takes careful research and editing to do it justice. When drafting a job inquiry email, remember to:

1. Examine the industry

Even if you submit a job inquiry email to a company you know, do further research on them. Explore their history, company structure, and, if available, the full names of directors or recruiters by going off of their website. If you are familiar with the recipient of your job inquiry email, including pertinent information about them or their interests will help you catch their attention. For instance, you might learn from reading the recruiting manager’s biography that you share a passion for tennis. Mention that in the job inquiry email and cater to their whims.

You should do extensive research on the business you’re approaching before beginning to write a job inquiry letter. The only method to write a trustworthy letter to an unknown recipient is this way. You can achieve several goals by researching. To determine if the company has a function that is appropriate for you, it first allows you to acquire a feeling of the mission, activities, and goals of the organization. It will also be easier for you to choose the appropriate tone and style for your job inquiry letter if you are acquainted with the company’s public persona.

Almost every well-known business has websites, social media pages, and other online assets that offer a wealth of knowledge regarding their activities, cultures, and products. By looking up the company’s website, you may find out everything you need to know about it.

You could also wish to research the present employees of the business you’re interested in. Look at the staff profiles on the organization’s social media pages by going there. This can help you determine the kind of knowledge and expertise you’ll require for the position. Note the characteristics that they have in common. Your job inquiry letter will be built on the data you gather, so keep that in mind.

2. Select the proper contact.

Before creating your letter , you should think about who to address it to. It’s preferable to address your job inquiry email with a specific recipient rather than a general salutation like “To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear Madam or Sir.”

See if anyone you know works there by asking your friends, family, and contacts in the business. If not, you might need to conduct a little digging on the business’ website or social media channels. A business frequently lists the name of the recruiting manager, recruiter, or employee who is in charge of team building on its website.

Although you can send an email to the HR department asking about job openings, you may need to wait before you hear back. By emailing the person you’ll be collaborating with directly if you’re employed, you can expedite the hiring process.

3. Customize your subject line

You can begin composing your letter once you’ve decided who the ideal contact is. Starting with a suitable subject line is the first step in creating a successful job inquiry email asking about work opportunities. Your grasp of the culture of the organization should be shown in the subject line.

Creating a more conversational email will demonstrate your suitability as an appropriate candidate for the organization if you come across informal and inventive employee bios while doing your research. Writing in a conversational tone gives you the ability to inject a little charm to help you stand out from the crowd and leave a lasting impression. One effective technique to begin an email about a job opening is to include the recipient’s first name and a brief statement about its goal in the subject line.

Your subject line must be more formal if you’re emailing an organization with a more formal and conservative culture about a job position. It must also be brief, addressing the letter’s goal right away.

4. Write an introductory sentence.

An effective job inquiry email will clearly describe its purpose in the first line. Make sure to introduce yourself and state that the purpose of your message is to inquire about a position. If at all feasible, briefly describe why you’re interested in this particular business as well.

Example : “My name is Rohit Krishna, and I would like to inquire about employment possibilities as a long-time enthusiast of the work that your company does in molecular research.”

5. Offer your skills

You should attempt to keep the dialogue from becoming one-sided when you are cold-emailing a corporation about employment prospects. Make it appear as though you are selling your knowledge rather than seeking employment in the body of your email inquiring about career openings.

Introduce yourself and describe how you learned about the organization at the start of the letter. After that, clearly describe your area of expertise and how it may benefit the business. You might also remark on how impressed you are with the organization’s expansion after recently following its development. Propose to share your views with the reader if your study revealed that the organization has been experiencing issues that you might be able to fix.

When sending a cold email asking about employment opportunities, be careful how you word your offer. If you’re unclear if you’ve written the proper message, assume that you’ve gotten the same job inquiry email from a potential employee by replacing the name of the recipient with your own. Consider if the letter makes it apparent what the applicant has to give and whether you’ll continue reading it.

6. Compose a brief, succinct letter.

Keep your message brief and to the point when composing an email in light of a job opening. The person who receives your job inquiry email about a job opportunity is undoubtedly busy and will value its conciseness and readability.

Your message might also be seen by the reader on a tablet or smartphone. Use brief, straightforward sentences to describe your knowledge and accomplishments to keep the whole letter under the primary reading area. To avoid long blocks of text and increase readability, keep paragraphs to no longer than three sentences. The goal is to provide a brief introduction, declare your core values, describe how you can assist the firm in solving an issue, and end on a friendly note.

7. Produce a first draft.

A job inquiry email should be treated professionally. Write several drafts and carefully edit each one. Phrases or sentences that go off-topic or seem unprofessional should be removed, while helpful material should be included. Consider this email to be the company’s first interview with you since it serves as their introduction to you.

8. Speak in a formal tone

Maintain a professional tone in your writing even if the recipient of this email is a cutting-edge company that uses a conversational tone in their marketing. You are not addressing them as a marketer or prospective client. Instead, you’re treating them as a business expert who might someday stand in for them. Keep a professional attitude and tone all through, treating this email like an interview as you would have in previous steps.

9. Finish with a strong call to action.

You ought to add a compelling call to action at the close of your cover letter, which could be a request for an informational interview or an interview to discuss future employment. You might also include something to stand out. If you’re applying for a specific position, think about including an example of a prior project that is relevant to the role along with some remarks on how it can be customized for the organization.

10. Include a cover letter and resume

Remember to include a cover letter and resume in your job inquiry email before sending it. Although you might mention your credentials and abilities in the body of the email, employers frequently have questions that can only be answered by resumes and cover letters. Even if there are no vacant positions for you right now, they will keep your CV on file in case there are any in the future.

Template of a job inquiry email

When composing your next job inquiry email, use the following format:

First Section: Heading

The first section serves as a heading. You should address the recruiting manager or anyone else who could see your email directly in this section. Getting specific names helps the employer see you more favorably because you’re speaking to them directly. It demonstrates that you studied them in depth.

Second Section: Introduction

Your introduction is in the second section. Add your opening sentence, which includes your name and the email’s purpose. If more sentences are needed, add them, but keep it succinct and limit it to three. Use the example of an introductory statement from above.

Third Section: Body

Your body is represented by the third section. This section’s length may vary based on the sector, but it shouldn’t be more than three paragraphs (or a total of 15 sentences). Describe your hobbies in more detail and provide a general summary of your qualifications in this section.

Fourth Section: The Conclusion

The fourth paragraph serves as your call to action and closing remarks. Typically, this is where people inform the reader that a cover letter and resume have been attached. As attachments are frequently overlooked if not mentioned, define this as an essential note inside your message.

Fifth Section: Final formality

The fifth and last paragraph serves as the official closing of your communication. You end with a formal and courteous statement here, which is followed by a list of your name, address, and phone number. If necessary, mention your phone availability times or give a link to a meeting provider.

Below is a template job inquiry email that you may employ to create a basic job openings inquiry and then modify to fit different scenarios:

My name is [First name], and I have [summary of work experience] and [area of specialty or interest]. I am in an excellent position in my profession to follow my love of [career objective or dream job] and hope to accomplish so with [name of company]. I could potentially make a useful contribution by [short explanation for considering your application] since [Company]’s principles of [name aspects of company mission] truly align with my professional aspirations.

I’d want to talk about how my skills might match any vacant positions or other possibilities at [Company]. Please take a moment to go through my portfolio and résumé, which are both attached for your perusal. I’m eager to hear from you and arrange a time for us to talk on the phone or in person.

Examples of job inquiry emails

The previous sample template is demonstrated using the following instance:

“Dear Jessica Hernandez and everyone else on the recruitment team at The World Genomics,

My name is Rohit Krishna, and I am writing to you to ask about employment possibilities because I have long admired the work that your company does in molecular research.

I recently received my degree from the West Indian Genomics Academy, and I’m looking for a full-time job with your organization. I’m an expert in animal biology, and I’ve been following your recent developments in obtaining DNA from extinct creatures like dinosaurs very carefully. I think that my studies on cartilage loss and other bone diseases will help your research with recently extinct species. My colleagues and I have created novel techniques for obtaining and examining DNA from bone structures.

I’d be an outstanding candidate for any upcoming opportunities in your labs given my esteemed credentials and body of work.

For your convenience, I’ve attached my cover letter and CV. Please feel free to reach out to me if you happen to have any questions.

Rohit Krishna

[email protected] “

You have to have an understanding of what details to add and how to style the letter appropriately if you want to understand how to compose a job inquiry email. This could mean the distinction between the receiver responding to your email right away or having it deleted or classified as spam. If your email is disorganized or challenging to read, you won’t be creating a positive first impression. Examine the following illustration of a job inquiry:

Russell Reid

4788 Charleston Boulevard

Scottsdale, AZ 27683

(000) 761-0033

[email protected]

January 29, 2023

Toby Torres

Recruiting Manager

iPress Design

831 Orchid Lane

Scottsdale, AZ 27684

Dear Toby Torres,

You have my sincere gratitude for reading my letter. I just finished my undergraduate degree at the University of Scottsdale, and I’m seeking a good job in the Phoenix metropolitan region right now.

I’m hoping my application will be taken into account for an entry-level role with iPress Design’s accounting division. My expertise in business accounting and GAAP regulations can be used to support your operations. I’ve been told that iPress is an amazing place to work; therefore I’m interested in joining your prestigious firm.

Please feel free to give me a call or mail me if you have any inquiries about my credentials.

Thank you once more for your time. I anticipate hearing from you soon.

Best regards,

Fresh graduate

My name is Sarah, and I’m a recent RICAD graduate looking to put my graphic design expertise to use in a cutting-edge advertisement setting. I’m well-equipped to contribute to Impression Unlimited’s design team thanks to my previous experience working as a design intern at several cutting-edge firms. I’ve been keen on working at Impression Unlimited since I first saw your outstanding projects at the US Southwest District Advertising Summit in 2020, and I think my portfolio embodies your principles of creativity and adaptability.

You can view my design portfolio and customer reviews on my website by clicking the link I’ve provided. I’d love to get the chance to talk about your goals for growing the design team and find out more concerning any impending art department jobs.

In conclusion, crafting a job inquiry email can be a crucial step in landing your dream job. It’s important to ensure that your email is well-written, concise, and customized to the company and position you’re applying for. Remember to introduce yourself, explain why you’re interested in the position, and highlight your relevant skills and experiences. It’s also important to express gratitude and professionalism in your email and to ensure that it is free of any errors or typos. By following these tips and tailoring your email to each specific job inquiry, you can increase your chances of standing out to potential employers and ultimately securing the job you want.

Frequently Asked Questions about job inquiry email

• What should I include in the subject line of my job inquiry email?

Your subject line should be clear and concise, and should mention the position you are applying for. For example, “Job Inquiry: Marketing Coordinator Position” or “Application for Sales Associate Role”.

• Should I attach my resume and cover letter to my job inquiry email?

It’s best to include your resume and cover letter as attachments rather than pasting them into the body of the email. Be sure to mention that your resume and cover letter are attached and provide a brief overview of your qualifications in the body of the email.

• How long should my job inquiry email be?

Your job inquiry email should be brief and to the point, ideally no longer than one or two short paragraphs. Remember, the goal of the email is to introduce yourself and express interest in the position, not to provide an exhaustive list of your qualifications.

• What should I include in the body of my job inquiry email?

The body of your job inquiry email should include a brief introduction of yourself, a statement of your interest in the position and the company, and a brief overview of your qualifications and experience. Be sure to keep it concise and focus on your most relevant skills and experiences.

• Should I follow up on my job inquiry email?

It’s generally a good idea to follow up on your job inquiry email after a few days or a week to check on the status of your application. However, be sure to keep your follow-up email polite and professional, and avoid coming across as pushy or impatient.

Elizabeth is a seasoned content writer with multiple years of experience writing on different topics under the general terms of scholarship , academics , business management, and human resource management and development.

She has a degree in Mass Communication and other relevant certifications.

• Search Search Please fill out this field.
• Career Planning
• Finding a Job

Cover Letters

Types of job search letters with examples.

Are you starting a job search? To job search effectively, you'll need to use a variety of communications. Whether it's writing a cover letter to send with your resume, inquiring if an employer you'd love to work for is hiring, or sending a quick email or LinkedIn message to a networking content, it's easier to start with an example or template than it is to write a brand new letter from scratch.

Review the most frequently used job search and career-related letters, including application letters, cover letters, inquiry letters, referral cover letters, prospecting letters, and other types of letters used to apply for jobs or inquire about jobs, plus examples of each type of letter and when to use them.

Career Networking Letters

Networking letters are used to request job search advice and assistance from your business or personal connections. These include introductions, referrals , meeting requests, and  requests for career advice . These letters can be sent to people you know or to people to whom you were referred. They may be sent by mail, email, or via networking sites such as LinkedIn.

Cover letters typically provide detailed information on why are you are qualified for the job you are applying for. Effective cover letters explain the reasons for your interest in the specific organization and identify your most relevant skills or experiences.  Cover letters are sent or uploaded with a resume when applying for jobs. Use these examples of professionally written cover letters to get ideas for your job search correspondence.

Email Cover Letters

When you're sending an email cover letter , it's important to follow the employer's instructions on how to submit your cover letter and resume and to make sure that your email cover letters are written as well as any other correspondence you send. 

Inquiry Letters

An inquiry letter is sent to companies that may be hiring, but haven't advertised job openings. Inquiry letters should contain information on why the company interests you and why your skills and experience would be an asset to the company. Also, provide information on how you will follow-up and your contact information.

Job Application Letters

An application letter  is sent or uploaded with your resume when applying for jobs. The job application letters you send explain to the employer why you are qualified for the position and why you should be selected for an interview. Writing a letter with your job application is a way to highlight your most relevant qualifications for the job and bring them to the attention of the hiring manager.

Letters Asking for Job Search Assistance

Your friends, family, former colleagues, alumni from your alma mater, and your professional and personal connections can all help with a job search. Here are examples of letters to ask for job search help, including letters announcing a job search, networking letters and letters to request assistance with a job hun

Letters of Interest / Prospecting Letters

A letter of interest , also known as a prospecting letter, is sent to companies to let them know you are interested in jobs that may be currently open or become available in the future. Sending one is an excellent way to reach out to companies you have an interest in working for but haven't advertised job openings.

This is one type of letter that may make more of an impact if it's printed and mailed than if it's sent as an email which may never get read.

LinkedIn Invitations and Messages

LinkedIn makes it very easy to invite people to connect with you and to message your connections to request job or career advice, or to ask them to write you a recommendation. Even though it's simple to do, your LinkedIn communications should be polished and professional, so you leave the reader with the best possible impression.

Referral Cover Letters

When you are applying for jobs, a referral can go a long way. Hiring managers and recruiters are more likely to take a closer look at candidates who were referred by someone they know. When you mention a referral in your cover letter , be sure to mention the individual who referred you by name and also indicates your connection with the person. 

Summer Job / Internship Cover Letters

When you're writing a cover letter for a summer job or internship , your cover letters should reflect why you are qualified and interested in the position. It's also a good idea to mention your availability if the job posting mentions a start and end date for the position.

Select the Right Type of Cover Letter

Be sure to choose a type of cover letter that reflects how you are applying for the job or the type of job search assistance you are requesting. Your cover letter should be designed specifically for the purpose you are writing and customized for each position you seek.

A Job Inquiry Email Sample to Get Your Foot in The Door

Some of the best companies are always hiring, but they don’t always advertise those openings. Others are open to the idea of bringing talented individuals on board at any time. If you’ve been eying a particular company for a while now, don’t wait for a job listing to pop-up online. Instead, consider sending them a job inquiry email. This is also known as a prospecting email or letter of interest. Check out our tips for writing one that will get the positive attention you seek and our job inquiry email sample.

Create a Great Value Proposition

Remember that every hiring manager is looking for the answer to a simple question: “What benefit will I get from hiring this person? ”

If you can provide an answer in two-three sentences, you’ll surely get some attention to your application. Such statement is a called a “value proposition” — your edge over others. 

Now here’s the challenging part: if you were planning to apply for an advertised position, you could use the job ad to determine what skill profile the employer needs.

But when you are pitching out of the blue, you will need to do some research. Check the company’s website for any new announcements. For example, you might find that they are expanding operations, adding new products, or struggling with a new surge of competitors. Then, identify how you can help solve one of those problems.

“I noticed that Acme industry recently launched a new mobile banking app. I’ve tested it and found a small UX blunder that is likely costing you at least 20% of new customers. In my past job, I helped solve a similar issue by improving the onboarding user flow. I’d be glad to provide a more detailed explanation during the job interview.” 

Communicate Your Interest in The Company’s Mission

It’s perfectly fine to want to work for a company with a great culture, fun work environment, and plenty of growth opportunities. There’s nothing wrong with mentioning a few things that appeal to you. 

That said, the main focus should be your interest and belief in the company’s mission. The best approach is to make a brief and positive mention without fawning or gushing. Something like the following:

“I believe that solving the issue of food waste is the key to ending hunger in the United States. That’s why I would love to build a relationship with Denver Area Food Rescue. I appreciate the work you do to reduce food waste in restaurants and feed hungry families in the area.”

Try to Find a Contact Person

Normally, you would send a cover letter to the person named in the job listing. If possible, you might find the name of the hiring manager. This time, you may need to do some work to find the right contact person. 

You have several options here:

• Reach out to someone within the department you are eying. 
• Or forge a connection with the company’s HR/recruiting department . 

In both cases, you’d probably find their contact information on the company website. LinkedIn is also a great source for making connections and introducing yourself. If you come up empty-handed, it is perfectly fine to address your email to the company’s hiring contact or general HR email.

Be Flexible

If you approach the company with an open mind, you may get the best results. For example, they may not be in a position to bring on a full-time employer, but open to having a remote contractor , or part-time employee . Depending on your current situation, consider inquiring about part-time positions, even internships. Gently probe for other opportunities. 

“I understand that you may not have an open full-time role at the moment. But I’d be also open to considering contract-based or consulting work.” 

Job Inquiry Email Example

Dear Sylvia Jones,

Jones Confections is unsurpassed in its ability to produce visually stunning, delicious candies, cakes, and dessert sculptures. I’ve followed the growth of your company since I was an apprentice pastry chef at La Pâtisserie in Switzerland. My name is Brenda Ninja. I am an experienced chocolatier and would love to be a part of your team.

I read your latest interview in ‘New Orleans Eats!’ magazine with great interest. You mentioned that demand for chocolate and frozen desserts were on the rise and that your pastry team needed an injection of creativity. I believe I have the skills and experience to make a really positive contribution at Jones Confections. Jones Confections is known for a rigorous commitment to technical perfection while still encouraging creativity and freedom of expression in its confectionary artists. That’s the kind of challenging environment in which I am at my best.

If you need any help, even on a temporary basis, I’d work with you. I’m open to full-time employment or a consulting position. I’ve taken the initiative to connect with you and your GM on Instagram. I’ve also attached my resume and linked my portfolio. I’d be honored if you would review my work. Would it be possible for us to meet over lunch in the next few weeks? 

Brenda Ninja

Final Tip: Connect Your Online Presence

An email inquiry may not be a direct path to a job or even an interview. However, it is a great tool for getting your resume in the door. That could get you at the top of the list when the next job opening is available. Better yet, your skills and experience, combined with your initiative, could motivate a hiring manager to find a position for you right away.

Other Cover Letter Samples

Software engineer cover letter example to help you make your mark, a lovely veterinary cover letter example, banging backstage cover letter example, convincing copywriter cover letter example and tips.

A huge collection of cover letters created by a ninja team of writers and career advisors. Learn how to write, style and file cover letters that employers actually enjoy reading.

© Copyright 2023 Cover Letter Ninjas

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What are Cover Letters and Letters of Inquiry?

• What to include

Format and Style

Cover letters: When submitting materials to prospective employers, you may be required or given the option to include a cover letter.   Your letter should capture the interest of the employer and communicate a personalized message about what you can contribute to that particular organization. Make sure to tailor your letters for each employer, because letters that are mass produced and generic are unappealing.

Letters of Inquiry:   A letter of inquiry is similar to a cover letter, but it asks about possible job opportunities rather than responding to a specific job announcement.

What to Include

Begin by addressing your letter to a specific person. This may involve some research on your part, such as a call to the organization to find out the correct name and title of the person to whom you should write. "Dear Sir/Madam" is very impersonal and indicates a lack of real interest in the organization and the person to whom you should write.

In the body of the letter, make it short and to the point. Throughout the letter, avoid the use of flowery language and cliches. Identify who you are, why you are writing, and where you learned of the opening. Relate your qualifications and skills to the position or organization to which you are applying. This demonstrates your knowledge of the organization and illustrates how you can be an asset to them. Refer to your resume without restating it word for word. Your cover letter is supposed to highlight your resume. The goal is to emphasize a few strong, specific examples that highlight your experience, skills, passion, and qualifications. This is your time to communicate your passion, interest, and enthusiasm – utilize the time! To conclude the letter, indicate what you want to happen next. If you want an interview, ask for it.

When writing your letter, keep in mind the reader's perspective. The most effective cover letters are clear, concise, and convey messages in three to five paragraphs. Your letter should not exceed one page in length.

Read through our three paragraph model for writing cover letters, or select the images below for sample cover letters:  

• Cover Letter – Sample 1    
• Cover Letter – Sample 2    
• Cover Letter – Sample 3  

How We Can Help

University Career Center staff can review and provide feedback on your cover letter or other job search correspondence during a 30-minute individual meeting. At minimum, you need to have a first draft written to schedule an appointment. You can  schedule an appointment  online, or schedule an appointment by calling us at 540-568-6555.

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