What Recruiters Want: How to Craft Messages That Open Doors

You spend hours crafting personalized messages to recruiters, but after clicking send, they disappear into cyberspace without so much as a ‘no thank you’ in response. Then, you worry that if your message is too brief, recruiters won’t see your value, and if you’re too detailed, your message won’t get read. And finally, there’s proper follow-up protocol. How do you show you’re genuinely interested without coming off as annoying or desperate? 

Addressing these very questions is why I’m writing this article – to give you practical strategies to transform your approach to messaging recruiters, opening doors to more opportunities.

Sending recruiters a connection request

Why Send This Message: This initial contact is your opportunity to establish a connection with the recruiter. It’s about making a positive first impression and setting the stage for future interactions.

Mistake to Avoid: Sending a request without a personalized message. Your request may or may not be accepted. Without context for the connection, it’s less likely to be accepted.

What to Include: Personalize the message by mentioning something specific about the recruiter’s work, posts, or company. This shows genuine interest and effort, setting you apart from others who might not take this extra step.

Sample message:

Subject: Connection Request from [Your Name]

Hi [Recruiter’s Name],

I recently came across your post looking for a [position title]. I am connected to several [title] in my network and would like to share your post with my network and stay updated on other openings.

Looking forward to connecting!

Best regards,

[Your Name]

This message works because you’re sharing what’s in it for them. It’s not about you. It’s about helping them find candidates for the roles they’re trying to fill. 

Research from Steve Dalton, former director of Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business, shows that only 20-40% of your outreach messages will receive a response. That means for every 10 messages you send to a hiring manager or recruiter, two to four will respond. Inside Job Seeker Central, I share additional templates and scripts to reach out to hiring managers and recruiters that will get you closer to that 40% response rate. 

Messaging a recruiter after applying for a job

Why Send This Message: You want to reach out to the recruiter and connect the dots on why you applied and why you’re a fit for the role. The purpose is to stand out from the hundreds of other applicants who’ve applied.  It puts a personal touch on your application and shows your proactive approach.

Mistake to Avoid: Avoid rehashing your entire resume or being too aggressive in demanding a response. This can overwhelm or put off the recruiter. You also want to avoid using LinkedIn’s AI-generated response template.

I recently posted a job on LinkedIn and, within hours had over 100 applications. 12 candidates sent me messages after they applied. Almost every single message was the template that LinkedIn provides. Only two candidates took the time to customize the message and connect the dots between their experience and the needs of the role. 

What to Include: Express your enthusiasm for the role and briefly mention a key qualification or experience that makes you a good fit. This should pique the recruiter’s interest to review your application more closely.

Here are some sample message templates you can customize:

Template #1

Hi (name),

I applied! I would love to have this position. With years of (experience), this would be a great fit as I’m looking to (insert why you’re interested in the role). With a recent layoff, I am available immediately to start as well. I would love the opportunity to discuss my qualifications and see if I would be just the fit you’re looking to add.

All the best,

Name

This message is short and sweet but explains why you’re interested in the role. 

Template #2

Hi (name), 

I believe that (value that matches the company’s.) At (Current company name) I am proud to (share something that you enjoy in your current role that aligns with this role you just applied to). I am looking for a (position) where I can (explain a skill you possess and the value it brings related to a requirement or need of the target role you applied to). Throughout my career, I have been recognized for (an achievement that shows you have the skills for the job). I enjoy (select a need of the role and how you’ll add value). 

​​I welcome the opportunity to discuss my experiences and the value that I can offer you. Thank you for your time and consideration! 

Sincerely,

Name

I like this message because you’re connecting the dots between your experience and how you’ll add value to the company based on their individual needs. 

Here is what the message could sound like if it was all filled out:

Hi Jessica,

I believe that servant leadership should be at the center of every organization. Putting customers at the forefront by exhibiting exceptional customer service catered to each individual. At Great Resumes Fast, I am proud to serve the “whole” client, not just in employment but helping to break barriers through our other services to ensure a better or successful life.

I am looking for a part-time position where I can use my sales skills and serve your customers by cultivating meaningful relationships that make each client feel special, educated, prepared, and satisfied. Throughout my career, I have been recognized for achieving the highest client satisfaction ratings while solving challenges in a timely manner. I enjoy educating clients about what makes the company special and why they should purchase our services. I excel in building strong client relationships to cultivate brand loyalty.

I welcome the opportunity to discuss my experiences and the value that I can offer you. Thank you for your time and consideration! 

Sincerely,

Lisa

Notice how this candidate is pointing to the needs of the company, her matching values, and why she’s interested in the role.

When I read a message like this from a candidate, it resonates with me as a hiring manager because it expresses shared values and it connects the dots between her experience and my needs. I can tell this candidate gets it. She knows what I need, and she can convey how her experience and skills add value. I can also tell she’s excited about what she does and the role I’m trying to fill. 

Following Up on an Application or Interview:

Why Send This Message: The point of a follow-up isn’t really to check on the status of your application or the hiring process. A follow-up is another opportunity for you to position yourself as the right fit for the role. Any feedback on the application or hiring process is just icing on the cake. 

Mistake to Avoid: It’s important that you don’t follow up too soon or too frequently. This comes off as pushy. After your initial message that you’ve applied, wait a week to ten days to follow up. After the interview, it’s always good to immediately send a thank you email but then wait a week to follow up further.

What to Include: Mention a specific aspect of the interview or job that excited you. If you’ve had an interview, referencing a part of the conversation shows attentiveness and engagement. Always connect the dots between what was discussed or an aspect of the job you’re excited about and your skills/experience. The most important part of any communication is connecting the dots. 

I say it again and again, the best thing you can do is connect the dots for the employer between your experience, skills, and values and their needs and values.

Additionally, make sure you express gratitude for the opportunity and the recruiter’s time.

Crafting the right messages to recruiters, hiring managers, and network contacts is more than just a skill – it’s an art. While I’ve shared a glimpse into effective communication strategies, there’s so much more to explore and master. If you’re eager to dive deeper, Job Seeker Central Membership is your next step.

Inside Job Seeker Central, you’ll gain access to an extensive library of scripts and templates, each meticulously designed for various scenarios in your job search. Whether it’s messaging hiring managers, engaging with recruiters, connecting with LinkedIn contacts, or networking effectively, we’ve got you covered. Our resources are tailored to ensure your messages not only get read but also elicit responses, paving your way to the opportunities you deserve.

Remember, only 20-40% of outreach messages typically receive a response. With Job Seeker Central Membership, you’ll be equipped with tools and strategies aimed at maximizing your response rate, getting you closer to that coveted 40% mark.Don’t let your messages go unnoticed. Join Job Seeker Central Membership today and turn your job search communications into compelling conversations that open doors to new possibilities. Your next career breakthrough is just a message away.