Should You Contact the Hiring Manager Directly?

If you’re a packaging engineer applying to jobs, you’ve probably wondered:Is it okay to reach out to the hiring manager?

To us, the answer is simple: YES!

Why It Helps

More companies are using AI tools to sort through resumes before a human ever sees them. That means:

• Great candidates can get overlooked.

• Resumes that don’t match the “right” keywords may never make it through.

• HR often doesn't know anything about packaging.

A quick, well-written message can make you stand out; especially when companies are being flooded with applicants, many of whom are unqualified or applying to every job they see just to get a foot in the door.

How it Backfires

• They value process over results.

• You did it wrong

How to Do It Right

• Be Specific

• Be concise

• Be direct

• Be honest

Keep your message short and specific. You want to sound interested, prepared, and human.

Here’s an example:

Hi [Hiring Manager's Name],I recently applied for the [Job Title] role with your team and wanted to reach out to make sure my resume didn't get lost in the AI shuffle. I am a proven engineer with relevant experience and I believe my profile[link] is worth a look.

Respectfully,

[Your Name]

You don’t have to be quirky. Just be real.

The TLDR

Reaching out can be the right move, but only when it’s done thoughtfully.

✅ Keep it short and relevant

✅ Act like a human

✅ Aim for a balance between friendly and professional

A well-timed message won’t get you the job on its own, but it might be what gets your resume seen.

- The PackStaff Team