Sometimes, you need a little inspiration to compose the perfect email—especially when you’re navigating the job market or professional networking.

Below are prompt templates you can use with ChatGPT for three common scenarios: requesting an informational interview, following up on a job application, and sending a thank-you note for an opportunity.

Simply fill in the details relevant to your situation, and ChatGPT will help you refine your message.

1. Request for Informational Interview

Scenario: You’ve found someone in your field whose experience or position you admire. You want to learn more about their career path, gain industry insights, or explore job opportunities in their organization.

Prompt Example:

“Help me write a polite and concise email to [Recipient’s Name], who works as [Job Title] at [Company Name]. Introduce myself as a [Your Current Role or Student Status] interested in [Specific Topic or Skill]. Ask if they’d be open to a 15-minute call or coffee chat to share advice on career growth in [Industry/Field]. Maintain a friendly yet professional tone.”

What ChatGPT Can Output:

• A greeting with a specific reference to what you admire about their work.

• A brief introduction outlining your own background.

• A clear request for an informational interview, including a suggested time frame.

• Polite closing with thanks for their time and consideration.

2. Job Application Follow-Up

Scenario: You’ve applied for a position but haven’t heard back, or you recently had an initial contact with a hiring manager and want to check on the status.

Prompt Example:

“Craft a concise follow-up email to the hiring manager at [Company Name] regarding my [Position Title] application submitted on [Date]. Express continued enthusiasm for the role and willingness to provide any additional information they might need. Keep the tone polite and professional, and mention the specific skill set I bring to the table.”

What ChatGPT Can Output:

• A polite reminder of when you applied or last communicated.

• A short reiteration of your key qualifications.

• An invitation for the hiring manager to reach out if they need more information.

• A closing that expresses gratitude for their time.

3. Thank You for the Opportunity

Scenario: You’ve just completed an interview, accepted a referral, or received some form of professional help. You want to express gratitude and keep the door open for future communication.

Prompt Example:

“Write a thank-you email to [Interviewer’s/Referrer’s Name] after my interview for the [Position Title] at [Company Name]. Include a sentence or two about something specific we discussed in the interview, and express enthusiasm about the next steps. End with an offer to provide any additional information they might need.”

What ChatGPT Can Output:

• A personal reference to the interview or referral details to show genuine appreciation.

• A mention of what you learned or enjoyed about the conversation.

• A positive, forward-looking statement about next steps.

• A brief closing that reiterates your gratitude and availability.

How to Use These Templates Effectively

1. Be Specific: Replace the placeholders ([Company Name], [Job Title], etc.) with real names and relevant details.

2. Reflect Your Personality: While ChatGPT can generate a polished draft, add a sentence or two in your own words to ensure it sounds like you.

3. Iterate as Needed: If the tone or length isn’t quite right on the first try, ask ChatGPT to “make it shorter,” “sound friendlier,” or “add a more formal tone.”

By using these prompt templates, you’ll streamline your email writing process while still producing clear, professional messages that leave a lasting impression.