Why Cold Emails Work
Most people never respond to cold emails—not because they don't want to help, but because the emails are bad. They're too long, too vague, or ask for too much. A good cold email is short, specific, and makes it easy to say yes.
Cold Email Success Statistics
40%+
Response rate with personalized emails
70%
Of professionals willing to help
3x
More likely to get interviews via referrals
Anatomy of a Great Cold Email
Every effective cold email follows a similar structure. Master these elements, and you can adapt any template to your situation.
1
Subject Line
Clear, specific, and intriguing. Mention a connection point.
"Fellow [University] Alum Seeking Career Advice"
2
Opening Line
Establish credibility and connection immediately.
"I came across your profile while researching [Company]..."
3
Value Proposition
Briefly explain who you are and why you're reaching out.
"I'm a [major] student interested in [field]..."
4
Specific Ask
Make your request clear and easy to fulfill.
"Would you have 15 minutes for a quick call?"
5
Graceful Close
Thank them and make it easy to respond.
"I understand you're busy. Thank you for considering..."
Alumni Outreach Templates
Alumni connections are gold. People are significantly more likely to respond to fellow alumni because of shared experiences and school pride.
Alumni Introduction (Same Major)
Subject: [University Name] Alum Seeking Career Advice in [Industry]
Hi [Name], I hope this email finds you well. I'm a [year] [major] student at [University], and I came across your profile while researching [Company/Industry]. I was excited to see a fellow [University] alum thriving in [their role/field]. I'm currently exploring career paths in [industry/field] and would love to learn more about your journey from [University] to [Company]. Your experience in [specific area] particularly caught my attention. Would you have 15-20 minutes for a brief phone call or virtual coffee in the coming weeks? I'd be grateful for any insights you could share about breaking into the field. Thank you for considering my request. I understand you're busy, and I truly appreciate your time. Best regards, [Your Name] [LinkedIn Profile URL] [Phone Number]
Reference shared university connectionBe specific about why you're reaching out to themKeep the ask small (15-20 minutes)Include your contact info
Alumni at Target Company
Subject: Quick Question from a Fellow [University] [Major]
Hi [Name], I'm [Your Name], a recent [University] graduate currently interviewing for [role] at [Company]. As I prepare for the process, I've been reaching out to [University] alumni at [Company] to learn more about the culture and what makes someone successful there. Your background in [their specialty] is particularly relevant to the role I'm pursuing. I noticed you've been at [Company] for [X years] and have worked on [specific project/area if known]. I'd love to hear your perspective on: • What you enjoy most about working at [Company] • Any advice for someone joining the [team/department] Would you be open to a 15-minute call? I'm flexible with timing and happy to work around your schedule. Thank you so much, [Your Name]
Mention you're already in the interview processAsk specific, thoughtful questionsShow you've done your research
Recruiter Templates
Recruiters receive hundreds of emails daily. Stand out by being concise, leading with value, and making their job easier.
Recruiter Introduction
Subject: [Role] Opportunity – [Your Name], [University] [Year]
Hi [Recruiter Name], I'm [Your Name], a [year] graduate from [University] with a background in [field]. I'm reaching out because I'm very interested in [specific role/team] at [Company]. A few highlights from my background: • [Achievement 1 with metric] • [Achievement 2 with metric] • [Relevant skill or experience] I've attached my resume for your reference. I'd welcome the opportunity to discuss how my experience aligns with [Company]'s needs. Are you the right person to speak with about opportunities on the [team name] team? If not, I'd appreciate any direction you could provide. Thank you for your time, [Your Name] [LinkedIn] | [Portfolio if applicable]
Lead with value, not requestsInclude 2-3 bullet points of achievementsAsk if they're the right contact
Following Up on Job Posting
Subject: Application Follow-Up: [Job Title] – [Your Name]
Hi [Recruiter Name], I recently applied for the [Job Title] position at [Company] (Job ID: [if applicable]) and wanted to follow up to express my continued interest. With my background in [relevant experience] and skills in [key skills], I believe I could contribute meaningfully to [specific team/project]. I'm particularly drawn to [Company] because of [specific reason – recent news, company mission, product]. I've attached my resume for easy reference. Would you have a few minutes to discuss whether my background might be a fit for this or other opportunities at [Company]? Thank you for your consideration, [Your Name] [Phone] | [LinkedIn]
Reference the specific job postingReiterate your fit brieflyBe polite, not pushy
Informational Interview Templates
Informational interviews are about learning, not asking for a job. Show genuine curiosity and respect for their time.
Cold Outreach for Informational Interview
Subject: Aspiring [Role] Seeking Your Insights
Hi [Name], I came across your profile on LinkedIn and was impressed by your career trajectory in [field]. As someone aspiring to build a career in [industry], I'd love to learn from your experience. I'm particularly interested in: • How you transitioned from [their previous role/background] to [current role] • What skills have been most valuable in your career • Any advice for someone just starting out in [field] I know your time is valuable, so even a 15-minute phone call would be incredibly helpful. I'm also happy to meet for coffee if you're in the [City] area. Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to hearing from you. Best, [Your Name] [LinkedIn Profile]
Show genuine curiosity about their pathPrepare specific questionsOffer flexibility in meeting format
Mutual Connection Introduction
Subject: [Mutual Connection] Suggested I Reach Out
Hi [Name], [Mutual Connection] suggested I reach out to you. I'm currently exploring opportunities in [field], and they mentioned you'd be a great person to speak with given your experience at [Company]. A bit about me: I'm a [brief background – student/recent grad] with experience in [relevant area]. I'm particularly interested in learning more about [specific aspect of their work]. Would you be open to a brief call in the coming weeks? I'd love to hear about your career path and any advice you might have for someone looking to break into [industry]. Thank you so much for your time, [Your Name]
Lead with the mutual connectionKeep your intro briefBe specific about what you want to learn
Referral Request Templates
Referrals are the most effective way to get interviews. Candidates with referrals are 4x more likely to be hired.
Referral Request (After Informational Interview)
Subject: Thank You + Quick Follow-Up Question
Hi [Name], Thank you again for taking the time to speak with me last week. Your insights about [specific topic discussed] were incredibly valuable, and I've already started [action you're taking based on their advice]. I wanted to follow up because I noticed [Company] has an opening for [specific role] that aligns well with my background. Given our conversation, I feel even more excited about the opportunity to contribute to [team/project]. Would you be comfortable referring me for this position? I've attached my updated resume for your reference. If you'd prefer, I'm also happy to send you a brief summary of my qualifications to make the referral easier. I completely understand if you're not able to, and I'm grateful for the guidance you've already provided. Best regards, [Your Name]
Reference your previous conversationMake it easy for them to refer youGive them an out if they're not comfortable
Direct Referral Request (Existing Connection)
Subject: Would You Be Able to Refer Me to [Company]?
Hi [Name], I hope you're doing well! I'm reaching out because I'm actively job searching and noticed that [Company] has an opening for [Role] that seems like a great fit for my background. I remember you mentioning that you know people at [Company] / work at [Company]. Would you be open to referring me or connecting me with someone on the [relevant] team? Here's a quick summary of why I think I'd be a good fit: • [Relevant experience/skill 1] • [Relevant experience/skill 2] • [Why you're interested in the company] I've attached my resume for reference. Please let me know if you need any other information from me. Thank you so much for considering this. I really appreciate your help! Best, [Your Name]
Be direct about your askMake it easy with a summaryExpress genuine gratitude
Follow-Up Templates
80% of deals require 5 follow-ups, but most people give up after one. Polite persistence pays off.
Follow-Up After No Response (1 Week)
Subject: Re: [Original Subject Line]
Hi [Name], I wanted to follow up on my email from last week. I understand you're busy, and I don't want to take up too much of your time. I'm still very interested in learning about your experience at [Company/in field], and I'd be grateful for even a brief 10-minute conversation. If now isn't a good time, I completely understand. Please feel free to suggest a time that works better for you, or let me know if there's someone else you'd recommend I speak with. Thank you again for your consideration. Best, [Your Name]
Keep it shortAcknowledge they're busyOffer alternatives
Final Follow-Up (2 Weeks)
Subject: Re: [Original Subject Line] – Last Follow-Up
Hi [Name], I wanted to send one final follow-up regarding my previous emails. I completely understand if you're too busy to connect right now. If you're not the right person to speak with, I'd appreciate any suggestions for who else I might reach out to regarding [topic/industry]. Thank you for your time, and I wish you all the best. Regards, [Your Name]
Make it clear this is your last emailKeep it brief and graciousAsk for alternative contacts
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Writing too much
Keep emails under 150 words
Being too generic
Personalize every email
Asking for a job directly
Ask for advice or insights
No clear ask
Include one specific request
Poor subject line
Be specific and intriguing
Not following up
Send 2-3 follow-ups max
Typos and errors
Proofread multiple times
Sending at bad times
Send Tue-Thu, 9-11am