1. Take out the “Dear”: They’re not dear to you and you’re certainly not dear to them. Don’t force an immediate relationship with someone of whom you want the respect, it will just inject the beginnings of your working together with awkwardness. Get straight to the point and use their name. Oh, and no “To Whom It May Concerns.” Take the extra time to call up HR and find out the name of their hiring manager. This adds the personal touch you were going for with your “Dear” and shows that you’re willing to go beyond what’s expected.
2. Do your research: Yes, you want to talk about yourself (don’t we all?), but diving right in to what makes you amazing is like every other e-mail your company will be receiving. What will set you apart is doing some very basic googling of the company you want to work for and including how their unique company traits match with your skills. Bonus: Ask a question. After doing your research, a question might arise. Don’t feel too intimated to ask, because you’ll be one of the few to reach out so directly, and probably one of the few to receive a response.
3. Check your spelling and grammar: Nothing says “hire me” like poorly used commas and mix-ups between “your” and “you’re.” While this might seem simple and common sense, you’re going to be burnt out from writing 101 of these e-mails, and might think you have it down pat. You don’t. Read your e-mail aloud before sending it off. If you would be comfortable saying it in person (and could say it in person based off your spelling and grammar), then it’s good to go.