How to Start an Email to Someone You've Never Met

When you email someone for the first time, you're going to have to have a great email subject line to get them to open it. Don't feel bad if you're not sure where to start. Some people have built entire careers around getting strangers to open emails. For a professional introduction, we'll help you make contact with the recipient with these 11 example subject lines.

Saying hello via Jane Smith

If you have a mutual contact with the person you're looking to connect with, then mention them upfront in the subject line. It's just like when you submit a cover letter. You always lead with the recommendation to show that others have vouched for you.

That being said, make sure you actually have the mutual contact's permission to email their friend or /colleague and to use their name. It's never a bad idea to double-check. They may also take it upon themselves to mention you in conversation, and really pique interest, so that they'll be on the lookout for your email.

Informational interview for an aspiring medical professional

If you have a specific ask when you first email someone, disclose it up front. If you want to talk over coffee or Zoom, state that right in the subject line so that your recipient knows exactly what you're looking for from them.

You'll find that, depending on who you're meeting, they'll have different policies. Some professionals are happy to meet over coffee for a few minutes. Others have a strict "no coffee" policy. Either way, it's best to let them know what you're asking for early so they can let you know just as clearly.

Looking to hear more after your article in Journal ABC

Pay a compliment while indicating how you heard about the person you want to meet. Everyone loves positive feedback. Not only does it show that you appreciate the other person, but it also indicates you've done your homework before approaching them. Now you have something specific to talk about.

This particular email subject line also states what you're asking for from the recipient. You're wanting to have a conversation or to continue an email chain. Be specific about that within your email, too. Let them know how and when you'd like to talk, /text, or /email.

Your LinkedIn article inspired me to reach out

While this may sound similar to the previous subject line, it's actually a bit more informal. Social media allows for professionals to talk about their values, experiences, and pieces of their personal life. If someone impressed you, made you think, or sparked an emotion, let them know. They probably wrote the post to foster conversation with people exactly like you.

Because this is a personal connection, don't be afraid to share the same aspects of yourself in the initial email. You could use a word other than "inspired" to describe how their post made you feel, as well. If you felt uplifted, supported, or heard, then use one of those descriptors. You'll likely get a better response, the more tailored your subject line is to what connects you both.

James Maple recommended I introduce myself to you

Another variation on stating the upfront referral upfront is also letting them know that you're just introducing yourself. Being clear about the content of the email shows that you respect the recipient's time.

This introduction is clear, simple, and gets right to the point. On that note, the introduction email itself doesn't need to be long. The shorter the better, but leave it on a question or a comment that will begin a conversation.

Mary, can I help you and your tech team?

Perhaps you're introducing yourself to someone within your organization. You've kept up to date on the goings-on and know that you could assist with a current problem. Addressing the recipient in the subject line grabs their attention right off the bat. Your offer of help is not something many people would refuse.

Save this email subject line for when you're both within the same organization, because if you aren't, this could come across as salesy (and is less likely to be opened.)

I'm pleased to meet you, Sally Jane

If polite and buttoned-up is your typical style, then this is the introduction subject line for you. Keep it on -brand, so to speak. You can also spice it up:

• I'm pleased to e-meet you, Sally Jane
• It's a pleasure to meet you via email, Sally
• May I introduce myself to you, Sally Jane?

It'll depend on the type of industry, organization, or country that your recipient is in, but seeing such a polite email subject line may be quite uncommon. All the more reason for them to open up the email and meet you.

Hi, Sam, could you use my help with data engineering?

When you're looking to introduce yourself to a potential new boss, let them know what you bring to the table. If you heard through the grapevine that a specific manager needed help with a task, you can be proactive and personalize the email to that hiring manager.

Seeing as how this is an introductory email, it's also not the place to attach your resume. You're simply being friendly and asking the question. If it's a "no," then you haven't assumed incorrectly that they want to hire you. If it's a "yes," then you can send more information when they request it from you.

Request to connect and talk about the plastic surgery industry

You can be much more direct or detail-oriented with this subject line than simply the industry you wish to discuss. For instance, you could state that you want to talk about a new piece of research, someone's promotion, or a brand new company.

A common thread throughout this article is that you need to be clear about your intentions, and this introduction does that. Don't be disappointed if you don't hear back. Just assume it's a "no" and that they don't have the time. It's a quick and easy response to your request.

Introducing Jimmy to John for a chat

You could also have the person who referred you write the introduction email and copy both of you in. This is a great way to get a more familiar foot in the door by way of introduction. It also takes the pressure off you to worry about whether they'll even open your first email.

Don't be afraid to ask your mutual contact to write this email for you. It could be just as simple for them to send a 30- second introductory email as it is to have them send you the contact details. If you think the new contact is particularly inundated with emails, this would be the way to get noticed.

Fellow Yale Daily News alum looking to connect over Zoom, go, Bulldogs!

Lastly, your connection to the person you want to meet doesn't need to be strictly professional. You could share the same alma mater, you might both have a past in the same sport, or perhaps your kids go to the same daycare. Laying out your shared experience in the subject line will also increase the chances of a connection being made.

Just like when you network, broadening your circle to other connections is always a good thing. You might be surprised how much the two of you have in common. But always lead with that commonality and add a little excitement to the subject line. People are more likely to open positive, friendly emails.

How to Start an Email to Someone You've Never Met

Source: https://www.theladders.com/career-advice/11-subject-lines-that-will-get-a-person-youve-never-met-to-open-your-email

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