Cold Email for Internships: The Ultimate Guide (with Templates!)

Internships are crucial stepping stones for college students and recent graduates. They provide invaluable real-world experience that bridges the gap between academic knowledge and professional application. 

However, due to intense competition, limitations in experience and internship positions, lack of networking, and ambiguity regarding industry requirements, bagging an internship opportunity is easier said than done. 

This is where cold emailing can be a powerful tool in your arsenal. In this article, we’ll show you step by step how to cold email for an internship and some of the best internship cold email templates you can use.

What Is an Internship Cold Email and Why Is It Important?

An internship cold email is a message you send to businesses or professionals you don’t know asking about available internship opportunities. Sending cold emails for an internship is important because it can build your network and discover internship opportunities that may not be publicly available. 

The prospect of cold emailing may seem daunting. But with the right strategy, techniques, patience, and consistency, you can stand out and increase your chances of securing the desired internship. 

Let’s begin with a step-by-step guide to give you the big picture of sending a cold email for an internship.

How to Cold Email for an Internship: A Step-By-Step Guide with Templates

Step 0: Create a professional sounding email address

This cannot be stressed enough, especially if you’re a college graduate aiming to make a good first impression on your potential employers. 

The choice of your email address will impact how recipients perceive your cold email. If your sender ID is something like “gamer4life@xyz.com” or “party_animal@xyz.com,” it may create a negative impression. Recipients might be naturally averted or skeptical, as these email addresses can convey a lack of professionalism or seriousness.

Here are a few examples of professional-sounding email addresses:

Simple Combination: First name + Last name: johnsmith@example.com First initial + Last name: jsmith@example.com Including Professional Designation: First name + Last name + Degree: johnsmithmd@example.com First name + Last name + Profession: johnsmithlawyer@example.com Using Your Professional Domain: First name + Last name + Domain: johnsmith@smithconsulting.com First initial + Last name + Domain: jsmith@smithengineering.net Adding Location or Industry: First name + Last name + Location: johnsmithnyc@example.com First name + Last name + Industry: johnsmithfinance@example.com Combining Initials: First initial + Middle initial + Last name: jmsmith@example.com

Step 1: Research and Identify Potential Companies

Look for companies that offer internships in your field; ones that align with your interests, values, and career goals. Try to gather information about the type of internships they offer and their internship culture. Employee reviews can provide valuable insights in this regard. 

Your dream companies may not explicitly advertise internships or may only have limited information publicly available about them. You can still list them down and contact them directly via cold emails to express your interest and offer yourself for an internship.

Given the low response rate to cold emails—a handful from every 100 sent—it is best to pursue as many companies as possible to maximize your chances of securing an internship opportunity.

Step 2: Gather Contact Information (Email Addresses) of Relevant Personnel

When conducting research to find key personnel at each firm, identify 3 to 4 individuals who hold relevant positions or have decision-making authority. These positions are typically in human resources or directly in the department or team you want to work with. Some good keywords to look for in their job titles are manager, director, or team lead.

The next hurdle is figuring out how to contact them. While gathering their email addresses can be challenging, you can utilize various techniques to locate or guess their contact information:

• Look for sections like Our Team, Leadership, or Management on company websites. These will give you insights into individuals’ roles and positions within the company. 
  
• Tap into your college or university’s alumni network to connect with professionals at companies of interest. Reach out to those in mid- or senior-level positions to explore internship possibilities or seek advice on approaching the company. 
  
• LinkedIn’s People section on every company profile page is a valuable resource. You can even reach out to connections directly via LinkedIn. The platform’s free version allows a limited but sufficient amount of emails (InMails) to be sent. You can also send a cold message if you ask someone to connect with you on LinkedIn. 
  
• Many companies follow common email address formats, such as firstname.lastname@company.com or firstinitiallastname@company.com. You can guess at potential email addresses that you can verify via online tools. 

Step 3: Compose an Attention-Grabbing Subject Line

The subject line of your email (or connection request via professional social media networks) is crucial in capturing the recipient’s attention. Keep it concise and specific.

Here are a few examples:

Expressing Interest and Relevance: Subject: Enthusiastic [Your Field/Area] Student Seeking Internship at [Company Name] Subject: Passionate About [Industry/Field]: Internship Inquiry for [Company Name] Highlighting Relevant Skills or Experiences: Subject: [Your Name]: Internship Candidate with Strong [Skill/Area] Skills Subject: Internship Inquiry: [Your Field/Area] Experience and Eagerness to Learn Personalizing with Company Details: Subject: Inspired by [Company Name]’s Commitment to [Industry/Field] Subject: Seeking Internship at [Company Name] – Impressed by Your [Specific Project/Achievement] Indicating a Common Connection or Referral: Subject: Referred by [Common Connection’s Name] – Interested in Internship Opportunities Subject: [Common Connection’s Name]’s Recommendation: Internship Inquiry at [Company Name]

Step 4: Writing a Persuasive Cold Email

There are many ways to write a persuasive cold email for an internship. While we will discuss them in depth with examples and templates throughout this article, here is a generic template that outlines a typical cold email for an internship: 

Dear [Recipient’s Name], I hope this email finds you well.  My name is [Your Name], and I am writing to express my interest in pursuing an internship at [Company Name].  As a [Your Field/Area] student with a strong passion for [Industry/Field], I am eager to contribute my skills and enthusiasm to a dynamic organization like yours. Here are a few highlights of my qualifications: [Mention relevant coursework, projects, or skills] [Highlight any relevant experiences, internships, or extracurricular activities] [Share notable achievements or awards] I am impressed by [Company Name]’s commitment to [specific aspect of the industry or values]. I believe my [skills/experiences/interests] align well with the work [Company Name] is doing.  I have attached my resume, which outlines all details about my background. I would be grateful for the opportunity to further discuss how I can contribute to [Company Name] as an intern.  Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Contact Information]

A strong internship cold email contains all of the following:

• Personalized introduction
• Expression of genuine interest
• Succinct outline of your relevant skills and value
• Request for an opportunity
• Professional signoff
• Call to action

Factors such as brevity, specificity, intention, and situation will impact how well your cold email will be received.

Step 5: Follow Up

After sending your initial cold email, give the recipient some time to respond. Create a well-scheduled follow-up strategy in the meantime. 

Send another email if you don’t receive a reply within a week. The recipient may be busy and may appreciate a short message as a follow up. 

Be sure to keep your follow-up message concise though. Politely remind them of your previous email and express your continued interest in exploring internship opportunities. You can also ask if they require any further information on your end.

Here is a standard template of a follow-up email seeking an internship opportunity:

Dear [Recipient’s Name], I hope this email finds you well.  I wanted to follow up on the inquiry email I sent last week regarding potential internship opportunities at [Company Name].  I’m still interested in exploring the possibility of interning at your esteemed organization. Please let me know if any additional information or documents would assist in further considering my application.  I look forward to discussing internship opportunities or any updates you may have regarding the application process.  Thank you for your time, and I hope to hear from you soon. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Contact Information]

If you don’t receive a response to your follow-up email within another week, it’s worth sending a second follow-up. Persistence is key to landing an internship. 

Before sending the second follow-up, be mindful of not coming across as pushy or desperate. Here is a simple template:

Dear [Recipient’s Name], This is a quick follow-up regarding the internship inquiry I made a couple of weeks ago. I wanted to respectfully inquire if there have been any updates regarding internship opportunities at [Company Name]. I remain very interested in the possibility of interning and contributing to your company’s success.  Should you have any questions or if there is anything else I can do, please do not hesitate to reach out. I am available for a call or meeting at your convenience. Thank you again for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you soon. Warm regards, [Your Name] [Your Contact Information]

Step 6: Move On To Other Contacts and Firms

If you have not received a response from a person after two follow-ups, email other individuals within the same firm and repeat the follow-up process. 

If you haven’t received a response from multiple individuals at the same firm, it may be a sign that the company is not currently considering internship applications. You can stop pursuing the company and focus on others. 

Step 7: Prepare Your Response

Strategize a response scheme if and when a company expresses interest in your internship inquiry. Anticipate potential questions they may ask during an interview or follow-up email. 

Here is a list of questions you could ask in response to a company’s internship call or email response:

• What are the specific responsibilities and tasks involved in this internship?
• What is the duration of the internship, and what are the expected start and end dates?
• Will there be any opportunities for mentorship or guidance during the internship?
• Are there specific projects or initiatives that interns typically get involved in?
• What are the expectations for interns in terms of work hours and commitment?
• Are there potential opportunities for full-time employment after the internship?

Do not persistently send cold emails to a single company for more than 2 to 3 months without any response. Continuously reaching out beyond a reasonable timeframe can be counterproductive. 

Engage with different companies, expand your network, and pursue alternative avenues to secure the internship experience you desire.

Keys to Successful Cold Emails for Internships

When sending cold emails for an internship, numerous granular aspects can be fine-tuned to stand out. It’s not just about sending a generic email and hoping for the best; success lies in the careful crafting of each element. 

Adopt a Structured Approach

Utilize tools such as Excel to organize and track your outreach efforts. By maintaining clear records and structured communications, you can ensure that no opportunity slips through the cracks. 

Being organized will also help you maintain professionalism and avoid confusion throughout the process. After all, you will be sending out dozens of cold emails and follow-ups.

Word It Well

Write a compelling subject line, personalize your introduction, express genuine interest, showcase your value, explain your motivation, and sign off professionally. 

Before sending the email, proofread it carefully for spelling, grammar, or formatting errors. Ensure that your message is concise, clear, and error-free. Consider asking a trusted friend or mentor to review your cold emails.

Time It Right

The earlier you begin your outreach, the better your chances of securing coveted internship positions before they fill up. For example, companies may start hiring for summer internships in April, but you might be able to beat the pack by reaching out in March.

In terms of specific days to send your cold emails, experts recommend avoiding Mondays and Fridays. On Mondays, recipients may avoid reading miscellaneous emails due to more urgent work messages that have accumulated over the weekend. Fridays may not be ideal either, as people may be in a more relaxed, end-of-week mindset.  

Target Mid- to Senior-Level Employees

Managers, directors, and other “higher ups” often possess hiring authority or can forward your request to the appropriate department, such as HR or the hiring manager. It increases the likelihood of your email getting attention and being taken seriously. 

Consider Company Size

Large companies often have established and structured (often lengthy) processes for onboarding interns. They may even have specific time windows for internship programs. These established enterprises will give you access to experts, industry experience, and powerful networking capabilities. 

Smaller companies, particularly startups, tend to offer more flexibility when it comes to internships. They provide more personalized attention and one-on-one experiences, which is something that may be hard to come by in bigger businesses.

Consider your goals and preferences when deciding between opportunities at large or small companies. Adjust your cold emailing strategy accordingly. 

Track Email Opens and Clicks to See Results

If you’re sending a bunch of internship cold emails, you’ll want to know who is actually opening them and reading them. This can help you determine who you should send a follow-up email to or who you should stop emailing all together. You can also tweak your subject lines or the body of your email to improve your response rate.

The best part is that it only takes a few seconds to know who’s reading your email. You can install a Chrome extension like Mailtrack for free and immediately track every email you send. Your prospects could also be impressed with this personalized approach to the sometimes impersonal nature of cold emails! 

4 Mistakes To Avoid When Sending Cold Emails for an Internship

When you send cold emails, it’s important to remember that this is the first impression you’re making with a potential employer. Not everyone is happy to receive cold emails, and most people don’t have a lot of time to waste reading countless emails from people they don’t know. If you’re sensitive to your recipient’s needs, you could find yourself at the top of their list for internship opportunities, so make sure to avoid these cold email mistakes. 

Do Not Send Generic and Impersonal Messages

Avoid sending generic, one-size-fits-all emails. Make an effort to personalize each email by addressing the recipient by name. In the body, outline specific details about the company. This demonstrates that you have taken the time to research and understand the business. 

Along the same lines, avoid generic subject lines. Instead, tailor them to reflect the purpose of your email. It is the first thing that recipients see, so entice them as best you can to click your message. 

Do Not Send Overly Lengthy or Meandering Emails

This has always been holy grail-level advice for sending emails of any kind: keep them concise and to the point. Long and wordy emails discourage recipients from reading the entire message. Focus on your relevant qualifications and express your interest succinctly.

Be clear with your intention for reaching out, whether you are seeking a specific internship position or requesting information about potential opportunities. 

Do Not Be Too Pushy

While showcasing your skills and experiences is essential, try not to come across as overly self-promotional or arrogant. Strike a balance by highlighting your strengths while demonstrating humility and a genuine interest in improving your skills. 

Moreover, avoid coming across as desperate or pushy in your email. Maintain a professional tone and respect the recipient’s time and decision-making process.

Do Not Forget To Proofread

Sloppy grammar, spelling mistakes, and typos will lead to a negative impression. Proofread your email thoroughly, and use spell checkers or grammar checkers to ensure your message is error-free.

Double-check critical details such as the recipient’s name, the subject line, and any attachments you may have included.

More Cold Email Templates For Internship

Here are a few more scenario-based cold email templates for internships:

Template 1: Requesting Internship Information (Primary Intent)

Subject Line: Seeking Information about Internship Opportunities at [Company/Organization Name] Dear [Recipient’s Name], I hope this email finds you well.  My name is [Your Name], and I am currently a [year/semester] student at [Your University/College], majoring in [Your Major]. I am reaching out to inquire about internship opportunities at [Company/Organization Name]. I have been researching companies in the [industry/field], and I am particularly interested in [Company/Organization Name]’s reputation for [mention a specific aspect that caught your attention, such as innovative projects, company culture, or community involvement]. It would be great if you could provide any information regarding internship programs at your organization. Specifically, I would like to know about the application process, the qualifications you seek in interns, and potential start dates for internships.  Thank you for considering my request.  I would be grateful for the opportunity to connect with you further to discuss internship openings or to learn more about [Company/Organization Name]’s internship program. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.  Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Contact Information: Phone number and Email Address]

Template 2: Expressing Interest in Specific Internship Opening

Subject Line: Application for [Internship Position] at [Company/Organization Name] Dear [Recipient’s Name], I hope this email finds you well.  My name is [Your Name], and I am writing to express my strong interest in the [Internship Position] advertised at [Company/Organization Name]. I am currently a [year/semester] student majoring in [Your Major] at [Your University/College]. Throughout my academic journey, I have developed a keen interest in [specific area or field] and have been actively seeking opportunities to apply and expand my knowledge. Upon reviewing [Company/Organization Name]’s website and learning about your [mention relevant projects, initiatives, or values], I am confident that interning with your organization would be a valuable and immersive learning experience. Please find attached my resume for your review. It highlights my academic achievements, relevant coursework, and applicable experiences.  I’d be happy to further discuss my qualifications and how I can contribute to the success of [Company/Organization Name].  Thank you in advance for considering my application. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Contact Information: Phone number and Email Address]

Template 3: Networking Referral

Subject Line: Referred by [Mutual Contact’s Name] | Inquiry about Internship Opportunities Dear [Recipient’s Name], I hope this email finds you well.  My name is [Your Name], and I am reaching out to you upon the recommendation of [Mutual Contact’s Name]. They spoke highly of your work at [Company/Organization Name] and suggested I connect with you regarding internship opportunities. I am a [year/semester] student studying [Your Major] at [Your University/College]. I am strongly interested in gaining practical experience in [industry/field]. After researching [Company/Organization Name], I am impressed by your [mention specific projects, achievements, or values that caught your attention]. I am writing to inquire if any internship positions are available at [Company/Organization Name]. I would appreciate any information or guidance regarding the application process and the qualifications you seek in potential interns.  Thank you in advance for considering my inquiry.    I look forward to the possibility of contributing to the success of [Company/Organization Name].  Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Contact Information: Phone number and Email Address]

Template 4: Alumni Connection

Subject Line: [Your University/College] Alumnus Seeking Internship Opportunity at [Company/Organization Name] Dear [Recipient’s Name], I hope this email finds you well.  As a fellow [Your University/College] alumnus, I am reaching out to connect with you regarding internship opportunities at [Company/Organization Name]. I am currently a [year/semester] student majoring in [Your Major] at [Your University/College]. I am eager to explore the possibility of interning with your esteemed organization. I am impressed by [Company/Organization Name]’s [mention specific accomplishments, projects, or values that resonate with you]. I am particularly interested in gaining hands-on experience in [specific area or department]. I believe that interning at [Company/Organization Name] would be a valuable learning opportunity. I have attached my resume for your review, which outlines my academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and relevant work experience.  I would be honored to have the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further and learn about potential internship openings at [Company/Organization Name]. I am available for a call or virtual meeting at your convenience.  Thank you for considering my inquiry.  I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Contact Information: Phone number and Email Address]

From Internship Cold Emailing to Winning Interviews: Key Takeaways

Cold emailing for internships can be a powerful strategy to secure valuable learning experiences and kickstart your career. Certain strategies and nuances will set you apart from the competition. 

Here are some key takeaways to cold emailing your way to landing the internship of your dreams:

• Thoroughly research and shortlist companies that align with your interests and career goals.
• Use company websites and email verification tools to find the contact information of key personnel.
• Compose personalized and to-the-point emails.
• Follow up promptly without sounding pushy or desperate.
• Know when to stop pursuing a company.
• Be prepared for a response and its aftermath. 

You may have to send dozens of cold emails to land an internship. However, remember that it takes just one “right” email to someone who can help you and set the course of your professional life. 

Using a mail merge extension like Mailtrack can make sending cold emails for internships or specific job opportunities more efficient and more effective. With the knowledge of who is opening your cold emails, you can start building relationships and discover the best internship opportunities that your peers may not even know exist!