How to get your e-mail read by the right person

A good Memorial Day Monday to you,

"When I find a job on TheLadders, and I have a contact or connection at that company, I'll send them an e-mail asking for help with that job. I include the name of the hiring manager, the job ID number, title, location, and specifically the fact that I've already sent in my information through TheLadders on such-and-such a date. I've discovered that the easiest way for them to brush you off is to tell you to go through the application process, so I make it abundantly clear that I've specifically complied with the system already."

That's advice from one of your fellow subscribers, and I think it is just outstanding.

Why?

Well, which e-mail makes it easier for you to know exactly what to do to help the person out?

"I'm interested in the VP, Corporate job and I think I'm a great fit. Here's my resume and I'd really appreciate your help with whoever in your company is doing the hiring."

Or:

"I can contribute to your company immediately in the role of VP, Corporate. If you could help me get in contact with Sam Waller, who is the hiring manager for this position, I'd really appreciate it. The Job ID number is TLC-1234, and it's the VP, Corporate position in New York, NY.

I applied for it on June 3rd, 2010, through TheLadders, but just in case, I am re-attaching my resume."

Being specific and providing details shows the hiring manager that you are serious and committed. The more specific you are and the more details you provide, the better. You'll come across as a thorough person, who has thoroughly thought through this particular job and thoroughly believes that you are qualified for it.

And now all your contact has to do is hit "forward" and type in "Sam Waller" so that Outlook picks up the hiring manager's name from the Corporate Directory. By providing great detail, you're actually making it easier for them to help you than to ignore you.

And that's a simple, clever, effective tip from one of your fellow Readers this Memorial Day weekend. Put it to good use this week, Readers!

Warmest regards,

Marc Cenedella, Founder & CEO, TheLadders.com

Follow me on Twitter here.