Diplomessy #6: How to Beg for a Job Without Looking Like You’re Begging
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By Pranav Mehta
It’s recruitment season. Your resume is polished, your LinkedIn has been “under construction” for two weeks, and now you’re ready for the next, most terrifying step: emailing strangers. Specifically, strangers with titles like “Senior Partner” or “Global Head of Something Important.” Mastering cold emailing is about finding the sweet spot between looking admirably ambitious and just this side of desperate. Here’s your ultimate guide.
1. The Subject Line: Catchy, Not Creepy
Your subject line needs to grab your future employer’s attention without making you sound like spam. This is recruitment season, not a reality dating show—save the oversharing for later. Here are some options that might work—tested only in the unscientific lab of my imagination:
“Future ESG Guru Seeking Guidance” (Makes you sound like the next Al Gore.)
“Curious Columbia Student Looking to Pick Your Brain” (Sounds intellectual, but not like you want their job…yet.)
“Just a Finance Enthusiast Wondering About Your M&A Days” (Nothing says “I want to get hired” quite like casually referencing mergers and acquisitions.)
Choose wisely—this is your first impression. And for the love of all things holy, skip the emojis.
2. The Introduction: Professional Fawning at Its Finest
Now that you’ve got them reading, it’s time to show your respect for their illustrious career. This is a tasteful nod to their success -- without seeming like you printed out their LinkedIn headshot. Some ways to show admiration that (hopefully) won’t get you blocked:
“I recently read your piece on sustainable investment strategies at Goldman, and as someone passionate about ESG, I was genuinely inspired.”
“I saw your UN talk on human rights and development in emerging economies—it was both illuminating and mildly intimidating, if I’m honest.”
This strikes the right note: flattery with a hint of vulnerability. You admire them, but hey, you’re not obsessed. Not really.
3. The “Ask”: How to Ask Without Actually Asking
This is the crucial part. You’re reaching out because you need something from them, but directly asking for it? A bit tacky, honestly. Instead, try the “subtle ask”—where you pretend you’re just casually seeking their perspective.
“I’d really appreciate your perspective on how investment banking is evolving, especially in light of recent regulations.”
Translation: Tell me all the secrets of investment banking, so I don’t fumble my interview.
“How did you balance impact and ROI in your sustainability initiatives?”
Translation: Help me sound like I understand the meaning of “impact,” “ROI” and “how”.
“Your insights on policy advocacy in complex international environments are fascinating. Do you have advice for a student navigating this field?”
Translation: Give me your roadmap to becoming the next Amal Clooney, please.
A “soft ask” leaves them feeling wise and you sounding modest. It’s a win-win…unless they don’t respond.
4. The Close: Say Goodbye Without Sounding Like You’ll Send a Follow-Up Every Week
This is where you give them an easy out. Show appreciation, but don’t cling; think polite send-off rather than “See you next time!” Let’s aim for just enough sincerity without accidentally slipping in a guilt trip.
The Ultra-Casual Close: “Thanks so much for considering—I’d truly appreciate any advice you’d be willing to share.”
The “Open Door” Move: “If you have time, I’d love to connect, but I know you’re busy, so no pressure at all.”
The Wildcard: “Your insights would mean a lot, and I’d be happy to return the favor with what limited insights I have.”
Each ending is designed to express appreciation without sounding like a stage-five clinger. Remember: they don’t owe you anything…except maybe a job lead.
5. The Follow-Up: The Delicate Art of the Ping
Step 3 didn’t quite have the intended effect? No problem. If you haven’t heard back, wait a few days (think of it as an unspoken cool-off period) and then try a light, nonchalant nudge:
The Understated Follow-Up: “Hi, just checking in to see if you might have a moment to connect. No worries if you’re swamped!”
The Ever-Patient Wait: “I thought I’d follow up in case my last email got lost in the shuffle.”
The Classic Soft Reminder: “Just popping this to the top of your inbox in case it got buried—thanks again!”
Cold emailing is like karaoke: it’s nerve-wracking, everyone overthinks it, and there’s always a chance you’ll crash and burn. But with the right tone, timing, and a little self-deprecating charm, you might just hit the high note. And if all else fails, remember: your email is just one of 6,527 unread messages in their inbox. You’ve got nowhere to go but up. Good luck!
Pranav Mehta, CFA (MIA '26) is an International Finance and Economic Policy student. He holds a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from New York University Abu Dhabi.