Should you message the hiring manager?

You’ve read the job description, updated your resume, and are wanting to apply to the design role you’ve seen advertised. But so are hundreds of other people. So you think to yourself, “Hey, I’ll message the hiring manager. That’ll improve my chances”.

But does it really? Well, kind of.

In marketing there are awareness campaigns and direct response campaigns. Messaging a hiring manager before you’ve applied for a job is an example of an awareness campaign.

You’re doing what you can to ensure the hiring manager keeps you front-of-mind. However, in my years as a hiring manager I don’t think I’ve ever been persuaded to hire someone just because they engaged me outside of the application process.

I have, though, shortlisted people for interviews based on their messages.

So should you message the hiring manager? Yes. Message them before you apply with questions about the role. This allows them to have a conversation with you outside of any formal recruitment processes (which can be strictly enforced) and allows you the opportunity to interview the company before ever applying. Just don’t expect a message like this to get you the role. It can help get you the interview, only.

The best approach I’ve seen is a short LinkedIn message that followed a structure like;

“Hey [hiring manager] - I’m looking to apply for the [role] you’re recruiting for. I want to make sure we’re a good fit and have a few questions before I apply. Are you available for a 10 minute call at [at this time on this day]?

Cheers,

[name]”

Try it out and let me know how you go!