3 Cold Email Templates for Remote Jobs That Get Replies

Applying through a job portal and waiting is the slowest way to get hired. A short, personal message to the right person can put you in front of a hiring manager before the applicant pile gets reviewed. Here are three templates you can adapt, plus the rules that make them work.

The rules

• Under 100 words. Busy people skim.
• Personal first line. Mention something specific about the company.
• One proof point. A result with a number beats a list of adjectives.
• A small, easy ask. Ask who to talk to, or for a short call, not for a job.
• Never mass-send the same text. People can tell, and it hurts your reputation.

Template 1: to a hiring manager

Subject: [Role] at [Company], quick question

Hi [Name],

I saw [Company] is [hiring for / launching / expanding into something specific]. I work in [field] and recently [proof point with a result].

I'd love to help [Company] with [specific problem]. Is there a good person to speak with about the [role] opening? My resume is attached.

Thanks,
[Your name]

Template 2: to a founder at a small company

Hi [Name],

I've been using [product] and noticed [small, honest, useful observation]. In my last role I [related result].

If you ever need part-time help with [tasks], I'm available [hours and time zone]. Happy to start with a small paid trial project.

[Your name]

Template 3: the follow-up (after 5 business days)

Hi [Name], following up in case my note got buried. I'm still very interested in helping with [problem]. Happy to send a one-page outline of how I'd approach it.

Who to contact

At large companies, message the likely hiring manager or team lead for the role, not the CEO. At startups with under 50 people, the founder or head of the relevant team is often the right person. LinkedIn search for "[Company] + [department]" usually finds them.

How many to send

Five thoughtful messages a day is plenty. Track who you contacted, when, and when to follow up. Send at most two follow-ups, then move on politely. No reply is not a rejection of you. People are busy.