You probably already know the importance of sounding professional when emailing the hiring manager about a potential job.
But how closely are you really reading into your messages before you hit send? There are plenty of email mistakes you may not even know you’re making—and they’ll tell your potential new boss a whole lot about you as an employee.
In fact, here are six things successful entrepreneurs from YEC say would cost you your chances of getting an interview.
1. You Use the Same Template for Every Job
While it’s tempting to use the same template for every inquiry, you have to do some legwork to get to know a bit about the company in order to make it clear that you’ve done your homework. If I can tell you’ve put zero energy into reaching out to us, we’re going to put zero energy into considering you.
2. You Take Too Long to Respond
No job applicant was ever hurt by responding to emails too quickly. I love people who show interest in our position by getting back to me right away. If you’re worried that you’ll look ‘desperate’—don’t. I’m looking for applicants who really want to work here and are willing to make the small sacrifice to get back to me over their lunch break or in the evening.
3. You Use Poor Grammar
If you’re writing sentences a fifth grade grammar teacher would mark in red, then you’re not ready to apply for a job that’ll require you to send emails on behalf of the company. I’m amazed at how often I receive a job inquiry with blatant errors. In an age of multitasking, I’m looking for someone who can land a job by paying attention to every detail along the way.
4. You Didn’t Do Your Homework
If you truly want to be considered as a candidate, your research should go beyond knowing a company’s name and industry. One thing that will hurt your chances is asking questions or misstating information that is readily available through a quick Google search. Candidates who know a great deal about my company show me they have passion and interest for the job.
5. You Misspell the Company’s Name
I’m always shocked at how many emails I see in which our company name is spelled wrong. If you aren’t detail-oriented or thoughtful enough to spend two seconds Googling our name, how can I trust you to represent the company?
6. You Use Emojis
Yes, applicants have sent these to me. The moment I see an emoji from an applicant, I’m completely thrown off and done with the conversation. Emojis are for friends, not professional relationships.