Cold emailing can be tough. Inbox clutter, spam filters, and the dreaded delete button mean that your carefully crafted message might never see the light of day. But here’s the thing: a little humanity goes a long way. People don’t like being talked at—they want to feel like there’s a real person behind that email, someone who actually understands their needs.
Whether you’re just starting out with cold emailing or trying to shake up your approach, these nine templates are designed to feel like natural conversations. They’re not just about what you say, but how you say it.
Let’s dive into cold emails that feel a bit less cold.
1. The “Let’s Keep it Simple” Email
Context: When you want to get straight to the point and respect the recipient’s time.
Subject: Quick Question, [Name]?
Hey [Name],
I’ll keep this short. I noticed [their company] has been doing some great work with [specific project or area]. At [Your Company], we help teams like yours with [problem your product solves].
I’d love to show you how we’ve helped similar companies improve [specific result], and see if it’s something you’re interested in exploring.
Could we set up a quick 10-minute chat sometime next week?
Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!
Cheers,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Info]
Why it works: This email is short and sweet, which shows you value their time. You also acknowledge their recent achievements, which makes the approach feel personal and genuine.
2. The “Casual Follow-Up” Email
Context: When your first email didn’t get a response, but you don’t want to be pushy.
Subject: Did my email get lost?
Hey [Name],
Just bumping this up to the top of your inbox in case it slipped through the cracks.
I’d still love to chat about how we can help with [specific challenge or goal]. If you’re swamped right now, no worries—just let me know when might be a better time, and I’ll follow up then.
Thanks again!
[Your Name]
Why it works: This follow-up feels light and non-intrusive, with a sprinkle of humor to keep things friendly.
3. The “You’ve Got a Fan” Email
Context: When reaching out to someone whose work you genuinely admire.
Subject: Big fan of your work, [Name]!
Hi [Name],
I’ve been following [their company/their work], and I just wanted to say—you’re doing some seriously cool stuff with [specific project or initiative].
At [Your Company], we help teams like yours with [specific value proposition]. I’d love to see if there’s a way we can collaborate and help you continue building on your success.
Any chance you’re free for a quick chat next week?
Cheers,
[Your Name]
Why it works: Everyone loves a compliment, especially when it’s genuine. This email shows you’ve done your homework and are reaching out for a reason, not just cold calling.
4. The “Mutual Connection” Email
Context: When you’ve been referred or introduced by a mutual contact.
Subject: [Referral Name] suggested we chat!
Hey [Name],
[Referral Name] mentioned I should reach out, as we’ve been helping companies like [Their Company] tackle [specific challenge].
We’ve had some great success with businesses like yours, and I’d love to explore how we can help you achieve [specific result].
Would you be up for a quick chat sometime next week?
Best,
[Your Name]
Why it works: The mutual connection adds instant credibility, and the tone is casual yet clear about the value you bring to the table.
5. The “Problem Solver” Email
Context: When you know your prospect is facing a common industry challenge.
Subject: Struggling with [Specific Problem]?
Hi [Name],
I know [Industry] can be a bit of a roller coaster, especially when it comes to [specific pain point]. At [Your Company], we specialize in helping businesses like yours solve this with [specific solution].
I’d love to hear more about how you’re handling [challenge] and see if there’s a way we can help.
What’s your schedule like for a quick chat next week?
Best,
[Your Name]
Why it works: This email shows empathy by acknowledging the prospect’s pain points and immediately positioning yourself as someone who can help.
6. The “Resource Drop” Email
Context: When you want to offer immediate value, not just a sales pitch.
Subject: Thought this might help!
Hi [Name],
I came across this [article/case study] on [specific topic], and it made me think of you and the work you’re doing at [Their Company]. I thought you might find it useful.
If you’d like, I’d be happy to chat about how we’ve helped companies like yours with [specific solution].
Let me know if you’re interested!
Best,
[Your Name]
Why it works: Instead of diving right into a sales pitch, you’re offering value first, which builds trust and opens the door for further conversation.
7. The “Catch-Up” Email
Context: When re-engaging a prospect you haven’t spoken to in a while.
Subject: Long time, no chat!
Hey [Name],
It’s been a while since we last connected! I’ve been keeping an eye on what [Their Company] has been up to, and it looks like you’ve had some exciting developments with [specific project].
I’d love to catch up and hear more about what you’re working on these days, and see if there’s any way we can help with [specific challenge or opportunity].
Are you free for a quick chat next week?
Best,
[Your Name]
Why it works: This email feels familiar and warm, like you’re reaching out to an old friend, rather than jumping straight into business.
8. The “Breaking the Ice” Email
Context: When reaching out to someone new but want to avoid sounding too formal.
Subject: I think we’d make a great team, [Name]!
Hi [Name],
I’ve been hearing a lot about [Their Company], and I think there’s a lot of overlap in what we do at [Your Company]. I’d love to chat about how we might be able to help each other out.
Would you be up for a quick call next week?
Looking forward to hearing from you!
[Your Name]
Why it works: This email feels casual and friendly, and the focus is on collaboration rather than a hard sell.
9. The “Straight Shooter” Email
Context: When you want to get to the point without any fluff.
Subject: Let’s talk about [Specific Benefit]
Hey [Name],
I know you’re busy, so I’ll keep this short. At [Your Company], we help businesses like yours achieve [specific benefit].
I’d love to show you how we do it—are you free for a quick chat?
Thanks,
[Your Name]
Why it works: Sometimes, less is more. This no-nonsense approach respects the prospect’s time and offers immediate value.
Wrapping It Up
Cold emailing doesn’t have to be cold at all. By adding a touch of warmth, personalizing your approach, and speaking like a human, you can transform these emails into conversations that build relationships and open doors. These nine templates give you the flexibility to do just that—whether you’re reaching out for the first time or following up after a referral.
Want to step up your lead generation game? Tools like TypeCharm can help you gather rich, prospect-specific data, making your outreach even more personalized and effective. Happy emailing!