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Executive Summary
How to annoy busy people effectively enough that they accidentally give you money.
Cold email is not dead. It is just mostly terrible. Here is a comprehensive, overly-detailed guide on how to write a cold email that might get a 1% response rate.
Step 1: The Subject Line
Keep it short. Keep it ambiguous. "Quick question" is played out. Try something threatening but professional like, "Regarding your recent strategic misstep."
Step 2: The Hook
Immediately flatter them, but follow it up with a backhanded compliment. Make them feel seen, but also slightly insecure.
Step 3: The Ask
Do not ask for 15 minutes. Ask for 7 minutes. It shows you value time mathematically.
"The goal of a cold email is not to sell; it is to start a very uncomfortable conversation.
If they do not respond, send a follow-up that is just a gif of a tumbleweed. Investors love passive-aggressive gifs.