Cold email has a bad reputation. But that's because 95% of cold emails are terrible. They're long, self-centered, and give the recipient no reason to respond.
Great cold emails are different. They're short, personalized, and lead with value. Here's how to write them.
The Cold Email Framework
Every effective cold email follows this structure:
- Hook — A personalized opening that shows you did research
- Context — Brief explanation of why you're reaching out
- Value — What's in it for them
- CTA — A specific, low-commitment ask
Total length: Under 100 words. If you can't say it in 100 words, you're not ready to send it.
Template 1: The Sales Email
Subject: Quick question about [Company]'s [specific thing]
Hi [Name],
I noticed [Company] recently [specific recent thing — new hire, funding, launch]. Congrats!
I'm reaching out because we've helped [similar company] solve [specific problem], resulting in [specific outcome].
Would you be open to a 15-minute call to see if we could help [Company] too?
Best,
[Your name]
Template 2: The Job Seeker Email
Subject: [Role] at [Company] — quick intro
Hi [Name],
I saw [Company] is hiring for [Role] and had to reach out. Your approach to [specific thing you admire] is exactly the kind of work I want to be part of.
Quick background: [1-2 sentences on relevant experience and achievement].
Would you have 15 minutes for a quick chat? I'd love to learn more about the team's priorities and share how I might contribute.
Thanks,
[Your name]
Template 3: The Networking Email
Subject: Your [article/talk/work] on [topic]
Hi [Name],
Your [specific content] really resonated with me, especially your point about [specific insight]. I've been thinking about it all week.
I'm [brief intro — 1 sentence]. I'd love to ask you a few questions about [topic] if you have time.
No worries if not — either way, thanks for putting your work out there.
Best,
[Your name]
Template 4: The Partnership Email
Subject: Idea for [Company] + [Your Company]
Hi [Name],
I run [Your Company] and have been following [Company] for a while. Love what you're building.
I have an idea for how we could collaborate: [1-2 sentences on the idea and mutual benefit].
[Similar companies] have seen [specific results] from this approach.
Worth a quick call to explore?
Best,
[Your name]
Template 5: The Introduction Request
Subject: Quick favor — intro to [Target Person]?
Hi [Name],
Hope you're doing well! I noticed you're connected to [Target Person] on LinkedIn.
I'm reaching out to them about [specific reason] and thought a warm intro might help.
Would you be comfortable making an introduction? I've drafted a blurb below you can forward if helpful.
Totally understand if not — appreciate you either way!
Best,
[Your name]
Subject Line Best Practices
- Keep it short — Under 50 characters
- Be specific — Reference them or their company
- Avoid clickbait — "Quick question" works, "You won't believe this" doesn't
- Test variations — Small changes can double open rates
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Get the Free Chrome ExtensionCommon Mistakes
- Too long — If they have to scroll, you've lost them
- All about you — Lead with their needs, not yours
- No personalization — Generic emails get deleted
- Vague CTA — "Let me know what you think" isn't actionable
- Aggressive follow-ups — One or two is fine, five is harassment
Key Takeaways
- Keep it under 100 words
- Personalize the first line
- Lead with value, not features
- Make the CTA specific and easy
- Follow up once, maybe twice