Hi,
Thanks for your generic email regarding work. Unfortunately there aren’t any positions available at this time.
If you’re open to suggestions then please see below for a less generic reply. But if you’re not ready to hear it, then please stop reading now.
Unsolicited emails enquiring about work are fine, but that all-important first contact needs to be done properly. I don’t want to sound overly critical, like the creative industry version of evil vicar, but I think a critique of your methodology could help improve your chances of a breakthrough.
The Pitch With No Name
I like my name - although hearing it makes some people feel queasy, it’s the most familiar word I know. When people use it they are acknowledging my identity and grabbing my attention, which is why it’s a common sales technique.
An unsolicited email pitch is a punt, so at least look at the website or call to find out the contact - don’t start with just ‘Hi’ and no name.
Gimme Some Sugar
Creative industry egos are notoriously fragile and we love flattery. Saying 'I saw your website and love your work’ is a great tactic, but when it's too vague to sound sincere then what we read is: 'I panicked and sent this email out to a number of agencies after some quick research’. How quickly the sugar turns to spam.
Inappropriate
Generic emails seeking work are surprisingly common (is there a template we don’t know about?!) They are also inappropriate - like going to the office dressed in a mankini on a cold winter’s day. Consider the context: we create things for people. We try to get their attention by understanding them and their motivations. Show us you've thought about who you are communicating with. Everyone’s a winner - you’ll look good and our self esteem will get a boost, meaning we won’t need to go to the office in mankinis to attract attention.
When people communicate in a more natural way it feels more appropriate. A surge of activity without enough thought or research is a waste. Quality of communication is key in the creative industry. Understand your audience needs and do your homework. Get creative if it feels appropriate and catch our attention.
