Template Toolbox | 2 Email Templates for Requesting an Interview

In our last post, we shared two email templates for networking. Today, we’re sharing two more templates that both focus on requesting an interview—either an informational interview, or an interview for a specific position.

But first, a few quick tips on how to use email effectively in your job search strategy:

• Short emails get responses; no need to add unnecessary details about your background.
• By the end of your email, the person on the receiving end should know who you are, what common ground you share, and what you’re asking for. 
• Write a clear subject line that shows why you’re reaching out, such as “As an entry-level professional, I’d love to hear about your experience in [Field/Department]” or “Reaching out about current opportunities at [Name of Organization].”
• Share contact information and any relevant professional links in your sign-off.

How to request an informational interview

An informational interview is a commitment-free chance to learn about different career paths and organizations you’re interested in. They can be an important part of securing connections during your job search, but they’re also useful even if you’re not looking for a new role (yet).

Customize the following email template when reaching out to new contacts for an informational interview:

Subject line: Up for a coffee? I’d love to hear about your experience in [FIELD/DEPARTMENT]

Hi [NAME],

My name is [YOUR NAME] and I am currently working in [CURRENT FIELD] at [ORGANIZATION NAME]. I came across your name through [WHERE YOU FOUND THEIR CONTACT INFORMATION/MUTUAL CONTACT] and wanted to reach out to learn more about your career journey.

Recently, I’ve been considering switching fields and pursuing a career in/at [FIELD OR NAME OF ORGANIZATION]. Because of your robust experience in [FIELD], I’d love to ask you a few questions about your professional path and how you arrived at your current role.

Are you available to meet me for coffee next week? I’d be happy to meet with you at whatever location is most convenient, and of course, I’m happy to join a phone or Zoom call if that works better for your schedule.

Thank you for your time,

[YOUR NAME AND CONTACT INFORMATION]

Pro Tip: After the informational interview, be sure to send a note thanking your new contact for their time and insight. 

How to pitch a job interview over email

It may sound unconventional, but it is possible to reach out to a hiring manager about potential job opportunities at their organization. The key is only sending these emails when you have a relevant mutual connection and you’re willing to share how you learned the organization had an open role. In this type of email, you’ll also want to be sure to include how your expertise lines up.

Subject line: Reaching out about current opportunities at [NAME OF ORGANIZATION]

Hi [NAME],

My name is [YOUR NAME] and I am currently working in [CURRENT FIELD] at [ORGANIZATION NAME]. I’ve been following [NAME OF ORGANIZATION] for a while—congratulations on [ORGANIZATION’S RECENT NEWS, PUBLICATION, OR PROJECT]!

I recently spoke with [NAME OF MUTUAL CONTACT], and [he/she] recommended we get in touch. As a [FIELD] professional, I have [X] years of experience in [SPECIFIC SKILL] and [SPECIFIC SKILL]. I’ve successfully worked on [NAME OF CHALLENGE AND OUTCOME] for [NAME OF SIMILAR ORGANIZATION], as well as contributed to the development of [NAME OF PROJECT] for [NAME OF SIMILAR ORGANIZATION].

I’m interested in making a move from [CURRENT ORGANIZATION], and I’d love to chat with you about any current opportunities at [NAME OF ORGANIZATION] in [FIELD/DEPARTMENT].

I’m flexible to your schedule. Would it be possible for us to set up a brief meeting next week?

Looking forward to talking with you,

[YOUR NAME AND CONTACT INFORMATION]

***

When using the above templates, remember that personalization is key. Feel free to change up the sentence structure with your own voice and ensure the recipient knows that you’re genuinely interested in learning more about their specific experience or organization.

By tailoring these email templates to your unique qualifications, experiences, and the specific roles you're pursuing, you won’t only be sending an email; you'll be crafting an opportunity.