Write a recruiter message worth answering

“I’m looking for an opportunity” leaves the other person to work out where you fit. A better message helps a recruiter understand the match without reading your entire career history.

Name the work you want

Start with the role, the requisition when you have one, and why you are reaching out. Be specific about the work that matches your experience. You do not need to list every title you would consider.

Give useful evidence

Choose an example that supports the role. Explain a problem you handled, what you were responsible for, and what improved. Keep it accurate. You can describe impact without inventing a percentage.

For example, explaining how you standardized an onboarding checklist says more than calling yourself a results-driven professional. Use numbers when you can support them.

Make the next step small

Ask whether the role is still open or whether a short conversation makes sense. One clear question is easier to answer than asking someone to review your resume, find a job, and arrange an introduction at once.

Hello [name], I’m reaching out about [role or requisition]. My background includes [relevant work], including [brief example]. I’m considering [location or remote preference]. Is this position still active, and would a short conversation be useful?

Use this as a structure, not a script to send unchanged. Verify the role and write in your own voice. If you follow up, add useful context rather than repeating “checking in.”