Keep it short (under 150 words for cold emails). Make the ask specific (not 'let's connect' but 'are you free for a 15-minute call on Thursday?'). Open with something relevant to the recipient, not yourself. Have one clear purpose per email — mixing asks kills response rates.
Subject: Quick question about [specific thing] Hi [Name], I noticed [specific relevant observation about their work/company]. I'm building [one sentence description] and think it could help with [specific problem relevant to them]. Would you be open to a 15-minute call this week to share your thoughts? [Your name]
Subject: Welcome to [Product] — here's how to get started Hi [Name], Thanks for signing up. Here's what to do first: [one specific action]. Most people see [specific result] within [timeframe]. If you have questions, reply to this email — I read every one. [Your name], [Title]
Subject: Re: [original subject] Hi [Name], Following up on my email from [X days ago]. I know inboxes get full — happy to send more details or find a better time. [One sentence restatement of ask] [Your name]
Subject: [Company] — [one metric that shows traction] Hi [Name], [Company] helps [target customer] do [outcome] by [mechanism]. We've [specific traction metric — revenue, users, growth rate]. I'd love 20 minutes to share what we're building. Are you free [specific date/time]? [Your name]
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