Writing an introductory email to a stranger can be easy, but getting a proper response needs work. Most business professionals are used to getting hundreds of emails a day, which decreases the chances of them getting opened, let alone getting the desired response.
Whether you are writing to a potential employer, a colleague, or a client, introducing yourself via email is an important step in making meaningful connections. Here are some tips on how to introduce yourself in an email the right way.
Start with a Gripping Subject Line
Unless it’s a message from someone the recipient recognises, a gripping subject line that piques the curiosity has the best chance of grabbing the attention of the reader. Around 47% of recipients open an email on the basis of the subject line.
Here are a few examples of introductory subject lines:
- [Name] recommended I contact you
- A proven solution to [pain point of the Lead]
- 40% growth in 3 months
- 10 myths about [interest of the Lead]
Modify the Greeting According to the Situation or Industry
Greetings can make a big difference to first impressions. Picking a greeting the recipient is more familiar with shows that the sender has done their research. For email recipients belonging to the conservative industry, such as government or finance, the traditional “Dear” is recommended. But if the recipient is someone from the media, tech, fashion, or travel industry, you can go with “Hello,” “Hi,” or even “Hey.”
First Line Hook and Reasoning
Starting the first line by introducing your name and reasoning can be an instinctual thought as an introduction email, but it might increase the chances of the person glossing over or losing interest in reading further.
Instead, you want to begin your first sentence directed to them, such as:
- “I noticed you lead one of the [name] teams at [company].”
- “I’ve never learned so much from one piece of content.”
- “Have you ever thought of turning your book into an online course?”
Then, you can follow up with your reasoning in the next line, followed by a “Thanks” and your name. It’s necessary to make sure the explanation is relevant to the recipient as much as possible.
Provide them value
The principle of reciprocity shows that people pay back what they receive from others. In other words, writing an authentic and thoughtful compliment can provide value to your recipient in addition to using data for demonstrating your product and its benefits, such as increased traffic, engagement, and conversions, or providing a case study for proving and backing up your claims.
Provide Contact Information and a CTA
Give them one or more ways that they can contact you directly (e-mail address, phone number, etc.). This makes it easy for them to get back in touch with any questions or follow-up thoughts they might have based on your introduction.
Lastly, end the email with a proper CTA (call-to-action). For instance, add a link to your meetings tool for them to know when both of you are available.
A Follow-Up Email
However, despite all your efforts, if they don’t respond, write a compelling follow-up email.
Here are a few ideas:
- Share weaknesses you’ve identified in their business and its solutions.
- Send them actionable advice.
- Reference a blog post they were and ask relevant questions about it.
- Invite them to an upcoming event.
An introductory email is meant to show a person’s values, the investments they bring, and the community they attract—all of which are incorporated in this guide. If you are interested in email marketing, contact us to get started with your campaign.