Sending a cold networking email these days can feel like a shot in the dark— your message is just one of dozens (or hundreds) competing for attention in a crowded inbox. But cold emailing isn’t pointless. Done right, the practice shows initiative, demonstrates research, and opens doors to valuable professional relationships. The truth? Most people want to help, but they’re busy. They don’t have time to respond to every message or meet with everyone who asks to connect. That’s why crafting a thoughtful, compelling email is critical at any stage in your career. With the right approach, you can increase your chances of a reply and turn one message into a meaningful conversation, a stronger network, and even potential job opportunities.
Why send a networking email?
There are many reasons why you might send a networking email. You might:
- Be looking for an “in” at a company you want to work for
- Want to reconnect with someone from your past, like an old colleague or acquaintance
- Want to follow up with the hiring manager of a role you applied for
- Be interested in reaching out to someone very senior at your current company
But what exactly should you write and how can you stand out? Follow the script below.
Appeal to ego (and be specific).
People love to talk about themselves— it’s human nature. Use this to your advantage. Be specific about why you admire them— maybe you’ve followed their career, shared their work with your team, or found a particular project they led especially impressive. Avoid vague or generic messages. Make it clear why you’re reaching out to them specifically and not just anyone with a similar job title or company name. A personalized, thoughtful note sets you apart and shows you’ve done your homework. A little genuine admiration—paired with specifics—grabs attention, makes the recipient feel valued, and significantly increases your chances of a response.
Try something like this: “I’ve been following your work for the past 3 years, and your recent blog post on risk-taking in the workplace was so impactful that I shared it with my team during our weekly meeting.”
Be a little vulnerable.
Vulnerability makes you stand out in a world of automated, impersonal emails. It makes you seem relatable and human to someone unfamiliar with you and your career journey. If you’re at a crossroads at work, looking for advice, or navigating a challenge, just say so. Share upfront why you’re reaching out and what you hope to learn from their experience. Honesty like this is not only refreshing, but it also demonstrates trust in their expertise. People appreciate authenticity, and a little openness can transform a cold email into a meaningful conversation and connection.
Try something like this: “After reaching a plateau of my seniority at my current company, I’m reflecting on how to advance and strengthen my skills. I’m currently on a learning journey and looking to gain some wisdom from people I admire.”
Make a specific ask.
A vague request to “connect” won’t get you anywhere— it appears lazy and puts the burden on the recipient to figure out what you want. Instead, be clear, intentional, and direct. Ask for 15 minutes of their time to learn about their career journey, hear what it’s like to work at a company you admire, or get their perspective on an industry trend. Explain why they are the right person to ask and how their experience aligns with what you’re hoping to learn. Avoid overused phrases like “pick your brain”— they’re directionless and uninspiring. Instead, go with a specific ask, making it easier for someone to say yes and creating the foundation for a focused, productive conversation.
Try something like this: “Would you be open to a quick 15-minute chat on Zoom to share your thoughts on psychological safety at work and how you’ve navigated team communication challenges?”
In an inbox full of vague, surface-level networking emails, be the sender of the email that stands out. A personalized, thoughtful, and specific message shows you’ve done your homework and gives your email a far better chance of being noticed. With the right mix of research, intention, and authenticity, you can turn one well-crafted email into a real conversation, a stronger network, and maybe even your next big opportunity.