Crafting the perfect email subject line is a subtle art. It’s something we often overlook, especially when it comes to networking emails. But don’t be fooled – these emails can open doors to significant opportunities for your career or business.
Networking emails are your ticket to connecting with industry experts, colleagues, or people you aspire to know better. They’re a crucial part of building a strong professional network. A successful networking email includes a captivating subject line and a well-timed follow-up.
Much like a headline entices you to read a story, a subject line compels someone to open your email. Shockingly, around 35% of people decide to read or trash an email solely based on the subject line, and 69% might label it as spam.
In this rapidly changing world of networking, where remote work is increasingly prevalent, email remains the go-to medium for professional communication. But reaching out the wrong way can lead to your message being ignored.
This post equips you with essential tips and templates to maximize your networking emails. Whether you’re striving to grow your business, advance your career, or find a job, mastering these basics is the key to success.
What Makes A Good Networking Subject Line?
If you want to make your networking emails work wonders, you should know a few key things. It’s imperative to understand a good networking subject line before writing one. Following are some of the characteristics/tips of a good networking subject line:
1. Personalisation
When reaching out to people in your industry, don’t take the shortcut of sending a generic message to everyone. It’s tempting, but adding personal touches is vital. Acknowledge their achievements or something unique about them. This shows that you’re genuinely interested in connecting.
Even if you send similar emails to several people, customize each subject line. Use their name or reference something specific you discussed. It makes them feel like it’s not a mass message.
2. Show How You Can Help
Networking emails often have a purpose: finding a job, selling your company’s services, or seeking advice. However, in your initial email, avoiding coming across as too salesy is crucial. Instead, focus on how connecting with you can benefit the recipient.
Explain how your expertise or network can be of value to them. Save the sales pitches or specific job inquiries for subsequent messages. The first impression should be about establishing a meaningful connection.
3. Proofread Before Sending
Just like any professional communication, networking emails should be free of grammatical errors and unfinished sentences. Before hitting that send button, take a few moments to review your email carefully. Typos and poor grammar can create a negative impression, so presenting a polished and professional message is worth the effort.
4. Maintain Connections
Networking is more than just a one-and-done endeavor. It’s about nurturing long-term professional relationships. After making those initial connections, make an effort to follow up with people in your network regularly. This could involve sharing industry insights, news, job opportunities, or simply congratulating a contact on their achievements.
Building rapport and trust takes time, and maintaining these connections is vital. Over time, you may find yourself in a position to make networking referrals.
Read More: Email Etiquette: 17 Important Rules To Write A Professional Email!
How To Write Networking Emails?
Networking through email can be a powerful tool for building professional relationships. Whether you’re reaching out to someone you know or a stranger, following a few key steps can significantly increase your chances of success. This section will provide a comprehensive and organized approach to writing networking emails.
1. Start with Research
Before you send that email, take some time to research the person you’re reaching out to. It’s essential to know more about them beyond just their name and job title. Check out their LinkedIn profile, company website, and other online sources to gather information about their background, interests, and experiences. This research will help you tailor your email to their qualifications and interests.
2. Craft an Attention-Grabbing Subject Line
Your email subject line is the first thing the recipient will see, so make it compelling. Keep it short and personalized to grab their attention. For example, use their name or mention a recent event or connection you both have. A subject line like “Nice to meet you, ” is far more engaging than a generic one.
3. Keep the Introduction Concise
In the body of your email, get straight to the point. Begin with briefly introducing yourself, your name, and where you work. Explain why you’re reaching out to them. Remember, busy professionals appreciate brevity, so save the detailed discussions for later interactions.
Related: Email Greetings To Use at Work & Stay Professional!
4. Mention Common Ground
Highlight any shared interests or connections you have with the recipient. This could be a mutual college, a shared LinkedIn group, or any personal connection you’ve discovered through your research. Common ground can be a great icebreaker and make your email more relatable.
5. Praise Their Work or Accomplishments
Express genuine admiration for the recipient’s work or achievements. Be specific in your compliments, citing something in particular that impressed you. For instance, mention a specific article they wrote or a project they were involved in. Authentic compliments show that you’ve done your homework and genuinely appreciate your work.
6. Offer to Add Value
In your email, suggest ways you can be of help to them. This can be anything from offering to write a blog post, connecting them with someone in your network, or providing your insights on a relevant topic. Show that your email isn’t just about what you can gain but also about contributing to their success.
7. Keep It Brief and to the Point
Busy professionals don’t have time to read lengthy emails. Keep your message concise, ideally within two to three paragraphs. Make every word count. Avoid overwhelming the recipient with too much information, and save the detailed discussions for future conversations.
8. End with a Strong Call to Action (CTA)
Wrap up your email by suggesting the next steps. Clearly state what you would like to happen next. Whether it’s a request for a call, a meeting, or further correspondence, make your CTA specific and easy to understand. This shows you’re proactive and ready to take the following steps in building the relationship.
Related: Call To Action Examples That Will Drive Traffic!
9. Follow Up
If you don’t receive a response, don’t be discouraged. People are busy, and your email may have been buried in their inbox. Wait at least a week before sending a polite and concise follow-up email. Remember not to pressure or guilt-trip the recipient; express your continued interest in connecting.
Effective networking is all about creating mutually beneficial connections based on genuine interest and respect. Now that you’ve learned how to write effective networking emails let’s look at some examples of networking subject lines.
How To Write Impactful Networking Subject Lines?
Writing impactful networking subject lines can help your emails stand out in a crowded inbox and increase the chances of your message being opened and read. Here are some categories of networking subject lines with three examples/templates for each:
1. Introductory Networking Email Subject Lines
When it comes to introductory networking email subject lines, the objective is to create a compelling and engaging opening that encourages the recipient to open your email. The subject line serves as the first impression and can significantly impact whether your email gets noticed or ignored.
Example 1: Cold Outreach Example
This cold outreach email is polite and demonstrates a genuine interest in connecting with the recipient. It effectively introduces the sender and their background, shows that they’ve done some research about the recipient, and highlights a common interest or goal. It ends with a clear call to action, which is to arrange a virtual coffee or a call.
The tone is respectful and not overly aggressive, making it more likely to receive a positive response. However, it would be more effective if it could specify more about why the sender wants to connect and how they can provide value to the recipient.
Template:
Subject: Exploring Mutual Interests in
Template:
Dear ,
I hope this email finds you well. My name is , and I recently came across your work in . I was thoroughly impressed with your accomplishments and insights in the , and I wanted to reach out and introduce myself.
I am currently , or an experienced professional in or driving positive change in . I would love to learn from your experiences and collaborate or discuss mutual interests.
If your schedule permits, I would greatly appreciate the opportunity for a brief virtual coffee or a call at your convenience. I’m eager to hear your thoughts and insights on and how we can support each other in our endeavors.
Thank you for considering my request, and I look forward to connecting with you. Please feel free to reply to this email or reach out to me at .
Best regards,
Related: 7 Tips & Tricks For Sending Outreach Emails That Get Replies!
Example 2: Job Application Example
This job application email is well-structured and professional. It clearly states the purpose of the email, which is to express interest in the job position. The sender briefly mentions their relevant skills and experience, which is crucial in a job application. The email is concise, and I’ve attached the resume for you to look over.
However, it could be further improved by mentioning why the sender is particularly interested in this specific company and position, showing a deeper connection to the organization’s values and mission.
Subject: Application for –
Template:
Dear ,
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to let you know that I am very interested in the role at , as advertised on . With my background in , I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to your team.
In my previous role as at , I successfully . I believe my skills in make me a strong candidate for this position.
I have attached my resume for your review. I am excited about joining and contributing to your . Please feel free to let me know if there are any further materials or information I can provide to support my application.
Thank you for considering my application. I’m looking forward to talking with you about how my qualifications align with the needs of . I can be reached at or .
Sincerely,
Example 3: Informational Interview Request
This email for an informational interview is courteous and shows a strong admiration for the recipient’s work. It clearly outlines the purpose of the email, which is to request an informational consultation. The sender specifies the topics they want to discuss, demonstrating a clear intention and respect for the recipient’s time.
However, it could be even more effective by stating how the sender came across the recipient’s work or why they specifically want to learn from them. Adding a bit more personalization can make the request even more compelling.
Subject: Request for Informational Interview
Template:
Dear ,
I hope you are doing well. My name is , and I’m contacting you because I’ve been following your career in with great interest. Your experience and insights have been a valuable source of inspiration for me.
I’m currently in the process of exploring opportunities in the , and your perspective and advice would be precious. I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to connect with you for an informational interview whenever you have time. I’m particularly interested in learning more about your journey in , your key insights, and any advice you might have for someone looking to make a meaningful impact in this field.
I would be incredibly grateful if you were available for a brief virtual coffee or a phone call. Your insights would mean a lot to me as I navigate my career path.
Thank you very much for considering my request. Please let me know if a time works best for you, and I’m happy to accommodate your schedule.
Best regards,
Related: How To Write An Introduction Email?
2. Follow-Up Networking Email Subject Lines
One of the most common scenarios in networking is the need to follow up with someone you’ve met at an event, conference, or through an introduction. Your subject lines should be engaging and relevant to make your follow-up emails stand out. Here are three examples/templates for follow-up networking email subject lines:
Example #1: Follow-Up Email to Strengthen the Connection
This type of follow-up email is a good idea when you’ve already interacted positively with someone and want to strengthen the relationship. It can be used after a networking event, a meeting, or a positive engagement.
Template:
Subject: Great Meeting at
Dear ,
I hope you are doing well. I am grateful for our recent meeting at . I truly enjoyed our conversation and found our discussion about insightful.
I look forward to collaborating or discussing further. Your expertise and perspective are valuable, and we can achieve great things together.
Please let me know if you have some availability for a follow-up call or meeting in the coming weeks. I would love to continue our conversation and explore potential synergies.
Thank you again for your time and insights. I’m excited about the potential for our future collaboration.
Best regards,
Example #2: Follow-Up Email to Extend the Conversation
This type of follow-up email is used when you’ve had a previous conversation or exchange with someone and would like to continue the conversation.
Template:
Subject: Continuing Our Conversation on
Hi ,
I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to see if you had time to continue our conversation about that we discussed during our previous . I was intrigued by your insights, and there’s an opportunity to delve deeper into this.
Would you be available for a brief call or meeting sometime in the next week or two? I’d love to explore some ideas and work toward our shared goals in more detail.
I’m looking forward to hearing from you and continuing our productive conversation.
Best regards,
Example #3: Follow-Up Email After No Response
This follow-up email is used when you’ve previously sent an email but have yet to receive a response. It’s essential to be polite and considerate to encourage a reply without being pushy.
Template:
Subject: Following Up on My Previous Email
Hi ,
I hope you are doing well. I am following up on the email I sent on regarding . I understand you’re likely very busy, and I appreciate your time and consideration.
I’m still very interested in and would love to discuss it further. Please let me know if the timing needs to be corrected or if you require any additional information. Your feedback and insights are essential to me, and I value the opportunity to connect with you.
If your schedule permits, I’d appreciate a response or any suggestions for how we can move forward. I greatly appreciate your guidance.
Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best regards,
Remember to personalize these templates and make them relevant to your specific situation. Always be polite and respectful in your follow-up emails, and be patient if you are waiting to receive a response after multiple attempts.
3. Reconnect Networking Email Subject Lines
Reconnect networking email subject lines are designed to grab the recipient’s attention and convey the intention of reaching out to re-establish a professional or personal connection. They should be clear, concise, and relevant to the purpose of your email. Keep in mind that the subject line is the first thing the recipient sees, so it should be compelling and indicative of the content of your email.
Example 1: Reconnecting for a Potential Collaboration
This email would be a good idea for reaching out to someone you have a prior connection with and are interested in collaborating with. It’s concise and to the point, with a clear purpose. The email shows how much your admiration for the recipient’s expertise and emphasizes the potential benefits of working together.
It also suggests a call or meeting, a proactive step toward initiating the collaboration. However, it could be further personalized by mentioning a specific project or idea you have in mind.
Template:
Subject: Exploring Collaboration Opportunities
Dear ,
I hope you are doing well. It has been a while since we last connected, and I wanted to discuss the possibility of collaborating on a project together. I have always admired your expertise in , and combining our skills could lead to a mutually beneficial partnership.
I have recently been working on , and your insights and experience could significantly contribute to its success. I would love to discuss this further and explore how we can work together.
If you are available, would you be open to scheduling a brief call or meeting at your convenience to explore potential collaboration opportunities? Your valuable input would be greatly appreciated.
Looking forward to reconnecting and hopefully working together in the near future.
Best regards,
Example 2: Reconnecting After
This template is ideal for reaching out to someone you’ve met or connected with at a particular event or during a specific timeframe. It acknowledges the context of your previous interaction and the potential for continued networking.
It shows your interest in the recipient’s well-being and the possibility of future collaboration or discussions. However, it could be enhanced by mentioning a memorable detail from the event or conversation to make the email more personal.
Template:
Subject: Reconnecting After
Dear ,
I hope you’ve been doing well since we last met at . It was a pleasure to connect with you during that time, and I wanted to reach out and see how you’ve been since then.
Our discussion at left a strong impression on me, and I believe there may be opportunities for us to collaborate or share insights in the future. I’ve been since we last spoke, and I would love to hear your thoughts and catch up on your endeavors as well.
If your schedule allows, would you be open to meeting for a coffee or a virtual chat at your convenience? I believe there may be synergies in our work, and it would be great to explore those possibilities further.
Looking forward to reconnecting and hearing about your experiences and insights since our last encounter.
Warm regards,
Example 3: Reconnecting and Expanding Our Network
This email is suitable for reconnecting with a professional contact you haven’t been in touch with for some time or for expanding your network with someone you admire. It conveys respect and admiration for the recipient’s achievements while also expressing a genuine interest in expanding the professional relationship.
It suggests a call or meeting to discuss possibilities, which is a proactive approach. To make it more engaging, consider referencing a recent accomplishment of the recipient or explaining how you think the connection could be mutually beneficial.
Template:
Subject: Expanding Our Professional Network
Dear ,
I trust this message finds you in good health and high spirits. It’s been a while since we last connected, and I wanted to renew our professional relationship and explore opportunities to expand our network.
Over the years, I have witnessed your remarkable achievements and contributions to , and I believe that staying connected could be mutually beneficial. I have been involved in , and I am always eager to learn from experienced individuals like yourself.
I would love the chance to reconnect and perhaps discuss potential collaborations, share insights, or simply catch up on each other’s journeys. If you are open to it, I propose we schedule a call or meeting to discuss how we can continue to build a valuable professional relationship.
I look forward to reconnecting and continuing to grow our network together.
Best regards,
In all three cases, it’s important to be sincere and respectful in your approach. Tailor your message to the specific context and your relationship with the recipient, and always be clear about your intentions and what you hope to achieve through the reconnection.
Final Thoughts
Networking email subject lines are your foot in the door of professional connections. They’re like the first impression you make at a party. So, it’s crucial to get them right.
To craft a perfect subject line, make it personal. This will make your email pop out from the crowd and boost the chances of it being opened. Keep it concise, though, as brevity is the soul of wit.
Remember, the goal is to build relationships, not overwhelm the recipient. Personalization is your secret weapon.
In the end, building a successful professional relationship involves listening, learning, and asking questions. So, go ahead, use these tips and templates, and watch your networking emails open doors and create lasting connections. Good luck with your next outreach email!
Further Reads:
Newsletter Subject Lines: How to Write Them, Examples & Tips!
Best Email Subject Lines to Boost Your Open Rates!(Examples)
Sales Email Subject Lines That Skyrocket Your Open Rates!
How to Write a Perfect Business Email? (Process & Tips)
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