Reach Out to 3 Hiring Managers at Target Companies
Direct outreach gives returning professionals something their resume alone cannot: a chance to make a human impression before the gap on their resume can raise questions. A thoughtful message that demonstrates your knowledge of the company and your enthusiasm for the role changes the dynamic entirely.
Direct outreach gives returning professionals something their resume alone cannot: a chance to make a human impression before the gap on their resume can raise questions. A thoughtful message that demonstrates your knowledge of the company and your enthusiasm for the role changes the dynamic entirely.
Step by Step
Choose 3 hiring managers from your research Go back to the contacts you identified in Week 1. Choose the 3 at your most desired companies.
Research each person for 5 minutes before writing Look at recent posts, career history, mutual connections, and anything you can reference genuinely.
Send a personalized outreach message Template: "Hi [Name], I have been following [Company]'s work in [area] and wanted to reach out directly. I am a [your title] with [X years] of experience in [field] returning to my career after some time away and [Company] is at the top of my list of places I would love to contribute. I believe my background in [relevant area] aligns well with what your team works on. I would love to connect and hear more about your team if you have a few minutes."
Log each message and set a 10 day follow-up reminder
Tips for success
Mentioning your years of experience before referencing your return frames you as an experienced professional, not someone with a gap.
If you have done any relevant work, volunteering, or learning during your time away that is relevant to the company mention it here.