Should I email my contacts reminding them about applying to their bank?

U networked with some people 2 months ago and had great convos. One was a higher up (C suite) in an investment bank that I was interested in and that opened up its app 2 days ago. After I apply should I email my contacts letting them know I applied? How should I go about doing this?

3 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, it's a good idea to follow up with your contacts after applying, especially if you've had meaningful conversations with them. Here's how you can approach this:

  1. Timing: Send the email shortly after submitting your application. This keeps the conversation relevant and shows you're proactive.

  2. Structure Your Email:

    • Start by thanking them for their time during your previous conversation and briefly mention what you learned or appreciated from it.
    • Let them know that you’ve applied to the position at their bank and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity.
    • Politely ask if they have any advice or insights regarding the process or if they could potentially support your application.
  3. Keep It Concise: Avoid lengthy emails. Be professional, polite, and to the point.

  4. Example Email:

    Subject: Follow-Up: Application to [Bank Name] Hi [Contact's Name], I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to thank you again for taking the time to speak with me [mention when you spoke, e.g., two months ago]. I truly appreciated your insights into [specific topic discussed, e.g., the culture at the bank or your career path]. I wanted to let you know that I recently applied for [specific position] at [Bank Name]. I’m very excited about the opportunity and would be grateful for any advice or guidance you might have regarding the process. Thank you again for your time and support. I hope we can stay in touch, and I look forward to hearing from you. Best regards, [Your Full Name] [Your Contact Information]
  5. Be Respectful: If they don’t respond, don’t push too hard. You can follow up once more after a week or two, but beyond that, let it rest.

This approach keeps the connection warm and shows initiative without being overly pushy. Good luck!

Sources: Want to get me on the phone? Here's how - a networking overview., Want to get me on the phone? Here's how - a networking overview., The Best Networking, Cold Calling and Cold Emailing Posts on WSO, Following up after applying?, Guide: Cold Contacting Investment Bankers For Non Targets

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 
Most Helpful

You can send an email along the lines of: 

"Hey {First Name}, 

I'm not sure if you recall, but we spoke a few months ago. I've been continuing my studies in {program and university}. I just wanted to quickly let you know I've applied to {position}. 

Thank you, 

Your name"

I would aim to do the following: (1) give benefit of doubt if they forgot about you or the convo (they likely have), (2) make it indirect "Just wanted to let you know" / "I wanted to drop a note", (3) name what you're applying to and minimize any guesswork for them. 

I've done the above in the past and one of three things happen, (1) it goes unread, (2) it gets forward to HR with a message like "proceed to interview" or (3) it gets a response with HR in CC. 

 

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