Email recruiter - How To

Question

Hi everyone!
I’m sure this topic has already been discussed here, but I couldn’t find a relevant thread.

I’m currently reaching out to recruiters from the firms I’m targeting (MBB/Tier-2) to try and set up virtual coffee chats — with the ultimate goal of moving past the initial screening stage.

I’d love to get your advice on best practices for this kind of outreach. Specifically:

Should I attach my CV in the very first message?
If applicable, should I mention a specific job posting that seems like a strong fit for my profile?

And more generally: any tips, do’s & don’ts, or lessons learned from your own experience would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks a lot for your help!

Answer 1

Hi Andrea,

When reaching out to recruiters, the key is to keep it short, professional and easy for them to help you. Here’s what works best:

1. Attach your CV in the first message
Yes — it makes their life easier and signals you’re prepared. Keep it one page and polished

2. Mention a specific posting only if it’s relevant
If there’s a role you’re clearly targeting, include one line about it so they instantly know your intent
If not, keep it general and focus on learning more about the office or recruiting timeline

3. Keep the outreach simple and low-pressure
Recruiters appreciate messages that cover

Who you are
Why you’re reaching out
What you’re hoping to learn in a short 10–15 minute chat

Do’s

Personalize your message
Be concise
Show genuine interest in the office or practice
Offer your availability clearly

Don’ts

Don’t ask directly for a referral in the first message
Don’t send long paragraphs about your whole background
Don’t follow up too often — every 7–10 days is enough

If you’d like, I can help you draft an outreach message tailored to your profile - feel free to reach out.

Best,
Evelina

Answer 2

Hi Andrea,

When you reach out to recruiters, the most important thing is that your message feels simple, polite, and easy to respond to. Recruiters get a lot of outreach, so clarity matters more than the perfect formula.

1. CV in the first message?
You can attach it, but it is not mandatory. If you do, it simply saves them a step. If you prefer not to, then at least include one short line summarizing who you are so they immediately understand your profile.

2. Mentioning a specific job posting
Only do this if you are clearly targeting that role. It shows intention and avoids any guesswork on their side. If you are still exploring the firm or the office, it is completely fine to keep the message broader and focus on wanting to understand opportunities or timelines.

3. General outreach tips
What tends to work best is a short note that sounds human. A couple of lines about your background, why you’re reaching out to this firm or office specifically, and whether they might be open to a quick conversation. You do not need a long explanation or a detailed pitch.

What usually doesn’t help is asking directly for a referral right away or writing a very long message. Most recruiters simply don’t have the bandwidth for that. A natural, respectful tone gets you much further.

Hope this helps!