What is a Cold Email?
Many think of cold emailing as a tactic used by salespeople trying to sell a product or service. While that is accurate, a cold email is essentially a message you send to a person that you have no prior connection with. Cold emailing can be a great way, especially for younger professionals or students, to create their own career opportunities.
Whether you’re interested in sustainable farming, agribusiness, or ag biotech careers, cold emailing is a game-changing way to create opportunities that might otherwise seem out of reach. From connecting with top industry professionals to securing internships, cold emailing is a strategy that can open doors of opportunity.
Benefits of Cold Emailing
So, why should you consider cold emailing as an agriculture student? Let’s dive into how cold emailing can be beneficial for you and your future ag career.
Network Without Boundaries
Cold emailing gives you access to people and opportunities you may have never known existed. A single email could lead to advice, mentorship, or even an internship. Cold emailing allows you to connect with people all around the world, not just people you would meet at a local event such as a career fair.
Land Internships and Job Opportunities
Did you know that some internships and job openings are never officially advertised? Companies sometimes rely on personal networks and direct inquiries. By reaching out with a cold email, you’re putting yourself directly on their radar, possibly before they even post a job opening. It also shows initiative, which employers like to see in young candidates.
Learn From the Pros
There’s no better way to learn than straight from the experts. Sending a cold email to someone you admire in the agriculture industry could score you valuable insights, tips, or even an opportunity to shadow them for a day. Imagine how much knowledge you could pick up from a seasoned ag professional who’s been in their career for 15+ years!
Stand Out from the Crowd
The current job market is competitive. Sending a thoughtful, well-crafted cold email sets you apart from all the other students who are just waiting for opportunities to land in their lap. It shows you’re proactive, resourceful, and willing to go the extra mile.
5. Steps to Write an Effective Cold Email
Cold emailing might sound intimidating, but it’s actually easier than you think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you craft emails that can lead to opportunities.
1. Do Your Homework
Start by researching the person you’re reaching out to. Scan their LinkedIn profile, check out their work, and learn about their company. Take the time to understand who they are and what they do before reaching out.
2. Personalize Your Message
A generic email is an instant turn-off, especially for professionals who receive dozens of emails a day. Start your email with something specific about them, like mentioning a recent project, article, or achievement.
Example: I read about your recent work in supporting next-gen farmers with creative financing solutions, and I found it really insightful.
3. Keep It Short and Sweet
Nobody has time to read a novel in their inbox. Stick to 2-3 short paragraphs. Introduce yourself, explain why you’re reaching out, and clearly state what you’re hoping to achieve by connecting with them, whether it’s a quick phone call for advice or a shadowing opportunity.
Example: I’m a junior majoring in agricultural finance at {university name}, and I’m very interested in learning more about agriculture lending as a career. Would you be open to a quick phone call to tell me more about the ins and outs of the job?
4. End With Gratitude and a Call to ActionAlways thank them for their time and politely suggest a next step.
Example: Thank you for taking the time to read my email. If you’d be willing to chat, feel free to respond with a few upcoming dates and times that would be convenient for you.
5. Follow Up
If you don’t hear back within a week or two, send a short, polite follow-up email. People are busy, and sometimes your email just gets buried. A simple, friendly nudge can go a long way.
Example: Hi {Name}, just following up on my last email. I appreciate your time and any insight you’d be willing to provide. Please let me know if you have time for a quick chat soon.
Thank you,
{Your Name}
Conclusion
Cold emailing can be a highly effective way to create your own opportunities, it just takes a little courage, effort, and a willingness to put yourself out there.
You may send dozens of emails before you land an opportunity, but don’t give up! Remember, the professionals you are reaching out to don’t owe you anything, but you’d be surprised at how many are willing to help an up-and-coming ag professional looking to kickstart their career. So, keep on cold emailing!
Whether you’re looking to network with industry leaders, land an ag internship, or get advice from experts, cold emailing is your way to create opportunities instead of waiting for them to come to you. The next email you send could be the one that changes everything!
Are you an entry-level ag professional on the job hunt? Search from thousands of jobs in agriculture, horticulture, food production, and more at AgHires.com.
For more career advice for students, check out our blog.
