10 Effective Tips on How to Write an Approach Email

Every day, millions of approach emails are sent to busy executives and decision-makers. Unfortunately, the vast majority of these messages fail to capture the recipient’s attention and are filed away in the “delete” folder without a second thought. The good news is that with a little bit of effort and some strategic thinking, you can write an approach email that stands out and captures the attention of your target audience.

The first thing to keep in mind when crafting an approach email is that you need to be concise and to the point. You only have a few seconds to grab your reader’s attention, so make every word count. Keep your message brief and focused on the most important information that you want to convey.

Another important factor to consider is personalization. If you want your approach email to be effective, you need to take the time to research your recipient and understand their needs and interests. This will help you tailor your message to their specific situation and show them that you are genuinely interested in helping them achieve their goals.

To make the process of writing an approach email easier, consider looking for examples online that you can use as a starting point. You can then edit these templates as needed to make them more personalized and relevant to your situation. By following these tips and taking a strategic approach to your message, you can increase your chances of success and get the response you’re looking for.

How to Write an Approach Email That Gets Results, According to Tim Ferriss

As a best-selling author, entrepreneur, and podcast host, Tim Ferriss has had to write countless approach emails over the years. Whether he’s pitching a potential business partner or trying to secure a high-profile guest for his podcast, Ferriss knows that the key to a successful approach email is all in the structure.

Here are the key components that Ferriss recommends including in your approach emails:

1. Start with a clear subject line. Your subject line should be brief but attention-grabbing. Ideally, it should give the recipient a clear idea of what the email is about and make them interested in reading more.

2. Address the recipient by name. Personalizing your email is crucial if you want to make a good impression. Address the recipient by their first name, and make sure you spell it correctly.

3. Introduce yourself and explain why you’re reaching out. In the first few sentences, let the recipient know who you are and what you do. Be concise and to the point. Then, explain why you’re contacting them specifically. What do you hope to discuss or collaborate on?

4. Offer value. This is where many people go wrong in their approach emails. They focus too much on what they want from the recipient, instead of what they can offer in return. Make sure to explain the value that you can bring to the table. Whether it’s a new perspective, a unique skill set, or a valuable connection, let the recipient know why they should be interested in working with you.

5. Make a clear ask. Finally, after explaining what you have to offer, make a clear ask. Be specific about what you’re hoping to get out of the conversation or collaboration, and make it easy for the recipient to say yes. For example, if you’re asking for a meeting, suggest a few times that work for you and ask if any of them work for the recipient as well.

By following these five key components, you can craft an approach email that gets results. Just remember to keep it brief, to the point, and focused on the value that you can bring to the recipient.

Approaching a Company for a Job

Applying for a Customer Service Position

Dear Hiring Manager,

I would like to express my sincere interest in the Customer Service Representative position at your company. As a highly organized and detail-oriented individual, I believe that I would be an asset to your team. I have gained valuable experience working in customer service roles in the past, and would be excited to put my skills to use at your company.

I am confident that my strong communication skills and ability to think on my feet make me an ideal candidate for this position. I have experience handling customer inquiries over the phone, email, and in person, and am comfortable using a range of computer software to quickly access customer data. I am committed to providing exceptional customer service, and would be honored to work for a company with a reputation for excellence like yours.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss my candidacy.

Sincerely,

John Doe

Applying for an Internship

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the internship role that you currently have available. As a recent graduate with a degree in marketing, I am eager to gain hands-on experience in the field, and I believe that your organization would provide a great opportunity to do so.

Through my studies, I have developed strategic thinking and a strong foundation in marketing principles. I am highly motivated and eager to learn, and would be committed to contributing to your team with fresh perspectives and enthusiasm. I am particularly interested in the innovative marketing strategies that your organization has implemented in the past, and would be thrilled to be able to contribute to the development of similar strategies in the future.

Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss my candidacy.

Best regards,

Jane Smith

Requesting a Meeting with a Potential Client

Dear [Client Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am reaching out to request a meeting with you to discuss a potential business opportunity. Our company has recently developed a new product that I believe would be of interest to your organization.

I would be grateful for the opportunity to present our product in more detail, and to discuss how it could benefit your company. I am available at your convenience to schedule a meeting at a time and location that is convenient for you. Alternatively, I would be happy to schedule a call to discuss the opportunity further.

Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing back from you soon.

Best regards,

John Doe

Asking for a Letter of Recommendation

Dear [Professor/Boss’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation from you as I pursue further education/career opportunities. I believe that your endorsement would be invaluable in helping me achieve my goals.

I have greatly appreciated the insights, guidance, and mentorship that you have provided me over the years. Your support and encouragement have been instrumental in my personal and professional growth. I am confident that your letter of recommendation will help me stand out as a strong candidate in my applications.

If possible, I would appreciate it if you could highlight my key strengths and accomplishments, as well as any specific projects that I worked on under your guidance. I would be happy to provide more information or materials as needed to assist in drafting the letter.

Thank you in advance for your time and support. Please let me know if there are any additional details or information that you need from me.

Best regards,

Jane Smith

Following up on a Job Application

Dear Hiring Manager,

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to follow up on my recent job application for the [Position Title] role at your company. I am still very interested in the position and would appreciate any updates that you could provide on the status of my application.

Based on my research, I believe that your company culture and values align with my own, and I am excited about the possibility of contributing to your organization. I would be thrilled to have the opportunity to showcase my skills and experience in the role, and I am confident that I would be an asset to your team.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing back from you soon.

Sincerely,

John Doe

Sending a Networking Email

Dear [Networking Contact’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to reach out to you today as I am currently exploring career opportunities in the [Industry] field. Your name has come up time and time again as a leader and influencer in the field, and I would be thrilled to have the opportunity to connect and learn more about your experience and expertise in the industry.

I am particularly interested in your insights into [specific area of industry expertise], and I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss the industry trends and challenges that you have observed over the years. I believe that by sharing insights and experiences, we can both benefit and broaden our perspectives.

Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing back from you soon.

Best regards,

Jane Smith

Responding to a Networking Request

Dear [Networking Contact’s Name],

Thank you for reaching out to me and expressing your interest in connecting. I would be happy to discuss my experience and insights in the [Industry] field, and to learn more about your interests and aspirations. I believe that by sharing knowledge and perspectives, we can both benefit and grow in our respective areas of expertise.

Please let me know what your schedule looks like over the next few weeks, and we can arrange a time that is convenient for both of us to talk in more detail.

Thank you, and I look forward to speaking with you soon.

Best regards,

John Doe

How to Write an Approach Email: Tips and Tricks

An approach email is an important communication tool in modern business. It can be used to introduce yourself, request information, or establish a business relationship. However, writing an approach email that is professional, compelling, and effective can be a challenge. Here are some tips and tricks to help you craft the perfect approach email:

Be Clear and Concise: When writing an approach email, it is important to be clear and concise. Get straight to the point and avoid unnecessary detail. Start with a clear subject line that accurately reflects the content of your email. Use simple language and avoid jargon or technical terms that the recipient may not understand.

Research the Recipient: Before writing an approach email, take the time to research the recipient. Learn about their business, interests, and needs. Use this information to personalize your email and show the recipient that you have done your homework.

Show Your Value: In your approach email, you need to show the recipient why they should care about what you have to say. Highlight your experience, skills, or achievements that make you valuable to them. Explain how you can help them achieve their goals or solve their problems.

Keep it Professional: An approach email should be professional and respectful. Avoid using slang, emojis, or informal language. Use a formal salutation and closing and make sure to proofread your email for spelling and grammar errors.

Follow Up: If you don’t receive a response to your approach email, don’t give up. Follow up with a polite reminder email a week or two later. This shows the recipient that you are interested in establishing a relationship and are willing to put in the effort to make it happen.

By following these tips and tricks, you can write an approach email that is compelling, professional, and effective. Remember to be clear and concise, research the recipient, show your value, keep it professional, and follow up if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions for Writing an Approach Email in NLP Format


What is an approach email?

An approach email is a message sent to introduce yourself or your business to a potential customer or professional contact. It is your first point of contact and should make a great first impression.

What is NLP format?

NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) format is a way of writing that focuses on using language that resonates with the recipient’s subconscious mind. It is designed to create an emotional connection with the reader, inspire action, and drive results.

What should be the tone of an approach email?

The tone of an approach email should be professional, concise, and friendly. Avoid using jargon or technical terms that the recipient might not understand.

How do I address the recipient in an approach email?

You can address the recipient by their name or job title in the opening sentence of the email. It’s best to do some research about the recipient beforehand and try to personalize the email as much as possible.

What should I include in the subject line of an approach email?

The subject line of an approach email should be short, specific, and attention-grabbing. It should give the recipient an idea of what the email is about and why it is worth opening.

What should be the length of an approach email?

An approach email should be brief and to the point. Ideally, it should be no longer than a few paragraphs or 150-200 words. If possible, include bullet points to make the email scannable and easier to read.

How should I end an approach email?

You should end an approach email by thanking the recipient for their time and consideration. You can also include a call-to-action, such as asking for a meeting or a phone call, and providing your contact information.

What should I avoid in an approach email?

Avoid using buzzwords, complex sentences, or jargon that the recipient might not understand. Avoid using a tone that is too pushy or aggressive, as this can turn the recipient off.

How do I follow up on an approach email?

If you don’t hear back from the recipient, you can send a follow-up email after a week or two. In the follow-up email, remind the recipient of your previous email and ask if they had a chance to review it. Try to provide value in your follow-up email, such as sharing some new information or insights related to your business or industry.

Ready to hit ‘send’?

That’s all you need to know to write a successful approach email! Remember to make it personal, concise, and engaging, and don’t forget to follow up if you don’t hear back. Thanks for reading, and I hope this article has helped you on your job search journey. Don’t hesitate to come back for more tips and tricks on how to land your dream job!