This template gives you a starting structure for a direct outreach email. Before sending, personalise every square bracket and add one specific sentence about why you chose this particular organisation. Short, specific, and polite is the goal.
How to personalise this template
Replace every item in square brackets with your own information. The most important customisation is the sentence explaining why you chose this specific organisation. One specific detail — their area of specialisation, a recent project, a value they express — is worth more than several generic sentences.
Subject line guidance
Keep the subject line short and descriptive. "Work experience enquiry — [Your Name]" is clear and easy to act on. Avoid vague subject lines like "Opportunity" or "Enquiry".
Following up
If you have not received a response within two weeks, it is appropriate to send one polite follow-up. Copy your original email and add a brief line at the top: "I am following up on my email from [date] below. I would still welcome the opportunity to learn more about your work." Do not follow up more than once.
When you get a yes
Reply promptly to confirm the date and time. Thank them for the opportunity. Ask if there is anything you should bring or read in advance. Send a thank-you email the same evening after your placement.
Email template
Email templateSubject: Work experience enquiry — [Your Name]
Dear [Name / Hiring Team],
My name is [Your Name] and I am currently [your education level, e.g. studying A-Levels at X School / in my second year of a Law degree at X University]. I am interested in [industry/area of work] and am reaching out to ask whether your organisation offers any work experience, shadowing, insight days, or short placement opportunities.
I am particularly interested in [Organisation Name] because [one specific reason — their area of work, a project they are involved in, something specific about what they do].
I am available [your availability, e.g. during the week of X or from X date]. I have attached my CV for reference.
Thank you very much for your time.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
[Email] | [Phone number — optional]
Replace every [highlighted placeholder] with your own specific content.
Checklist
- Under 150 words
- Subject line includes your name and "work experience"
- Explains who you are and what you are studying
- Includes one specific sentence about why you chose this organisation
- States clearly what you are asking for
- States your availability
Common mistakes to avoid
- Writing a long email explaining your entire background
- Not explaining why you chose this specific organisation
- Sending the same email to every employer without changing it