When looking for work, a networking letter can be extremely useful. This written document, which can take the form of a letter or an email, makes use of your personal and professional network. If you are looking for work, consider writing a networking letter to assist you.
Believe it or not, the large percentage of job seekers find work through networking, often by landing positions that are not even advertised.
This article describes the practice of networking letters, including how to write one, as well as a template and an example of a networking letter.
What Is A Networking Cover Letter?
A networking cover letter is used to help you build a network of contacts in the workplace. Before they are even advertised, many job openings are filled through referrals and word of mouth from other employees or employers. This means that the more people you know, the more likely it is that you will learn about potential job opportunities before they are made available to the general public.
Furthermore, a network letter will help you introduce yourself as a strong candidate because it demonstrates your eagerness to work.
Who Should You Send This Letter To?
Send a letter to anyone you know who is connected to the career field you want to work in. If you are uncertain, try contacting college friends, professors, educators, or professionals you met at workshops or seminars.
How To Write A Cover Letter For Networking
Writing a networking letter can assist you in advancing your career and broaden your networking opportunities. Follow these steps to write a networking letter or email:
- List your contact information
Begin your letter with a heading that includes your contact information, such as your name, address, phone number, and email address. If you are writing a physical letter rather than an email, you should also include the date. Listing your contact details first makes it easy for the recipient to find and immediately introduces you.
- State recipient’s contact information
Include the recipient’s name, occupation, and the address of the company for which they work. Including this information ensures that you contact the correct person.
- Greet them courteously
Begin your networking letter by greeting the professional to whom you are writing. Consider using a greeting such as “hi” or “hello” to remain both courteous and professional.
- Describe your connection
Consider introducing yourself and clarifying your connection to the professional you are writing to, unless it is obvious.
- Explain why you’re contacting them
This step is sometimes combined with the previous step, as shown in the example above. If you choose to detach your elaboration of your mutual connection and your intent for writing, consider mentioning your purpose right after.
- Include key information from your resume
Incorporating key information from your resume, such as an impressive work history or relevant skills, can help the recipient gain a better understanding of your abilities. This can help the professional think of roles or open positions that you are qualified for.
- Describe your professional personality
Consider summarizing your work personality. Include the job title you want and an adjective or skill that perfectly represents your work ethic.
- Thank them and make final remarks
Keep your networking letter brief to make it easier to read for the recipient. Remember to thank them for their time and assistance. Then sign your name and offer a mannerly phrase or word of closing.
- Attach your resume
After you’ve finished writing your letter, include a copy of your resume for the recipient to keep and review. Having a resume to refer to can help them remember you when they hear about a role that matches your abilities in the future.
- Proofread your letter
Check your email or letter for clarity as well as correct grammar, spelling, and format. This is a professional courtesy that can demonstrate your attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.
Sample and Template
To guide you in writing your networking cover letter, we provided a sample and template that can help you:
Networking Cover Letter Sample
Sarah Rupert
123 Buck Ave. Cleveland, Ohio 2345
rupertsarah@email.com
123- 456- 7890
December 28, 2020
Dr. Katherine Swift
Department Head
Lambert University
Hi Dr. Katherine,
We met in 2018 while I was taking your Women in Literature course. I learned a lot in your class and appreciated how you applied what we learned in class to real-life situations. I’m writing to inquire about any potential printing industry contacts you may have.
Please find my resume attached. Here are a few key points for publishing professionals to consider:
- Assistant Editor for Beacon Literary Magazine
- Senior consultant at Lambert University Tutoring Center
- Strong communication and administrative skills
Please contact me with any additional information if you have any professional publishing contacts who are looking for an artistic and detail-oriented reader. I would be delighted to continue this discussion.
Thank you for spending your time reading my letter.
Sincerely,
Sarah Rupert
Networking Cover Letter Template
[First and last name]
[Your address]
[Email address]
[Phone number]
[Date]
[Recipient’s Name]
[Job Title]
[Company address]
Hello [Recipient’s Name],
[Connection explanation]. I’m writing to [the letter’s intended recipient].
Please find my resume attached. Here are a few key points that you might find interesting:
- [key aspect of resume]
- [key aspect of resume]
- [key aspect of resume]
If you are looking for a candidate who [description of your professional personality], please contact me with any additional information. I would be happy to further this discussion.
Thank you for your time.
[closing phrase]
[your name]
Key Takeaways
- Writing a networking letter can help you improve your career options and widen your networking opportunities.
- Consider sending a letter to anyone you know who is employed in the field you want to work in.
- Make your request as specific as possible.
- Consider summarizing your work personality.
- Keep your networking letter brief to make it easier to read for the recipient.