Networking EMail Template
Click the button below to view our email example on Google Drive.
Scroll down to the next section for some tips & tricks on strong email writing!
To download, just click File > Make a copy (must be signed in to Google)
Section Guidelines
Subject Line: Keep it concise and specific. Mention your purpose or a brief introduction (e.g., "Networking Inquiry from [Your Name]").
Salutation: Make sure to use a formal salutation (e.g., "Dear Professor [Last Name]" or "Dear [Leader's Name]").
Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself, mention your current status (e.g., student, recent graduate) and your background. Express your admiration for their work or the organization's initiatives.
Establish Connection: If there's a specific reason you are reaching out (e.g., you attended a conference, read their research), mention it briefly. Highlight any common interests or experiences.
State Your Purpose: Clearly explain why you are reaching out and what you hope to gain from the connection. For example, you might be seeking advice, information about their work, or potential opportunities for collaboration.
Express Genuine Interest: Show genuine interest in their work or the organization. Reference specific projects or achievements that caught your attention.
Briefly Share Your Goals: Provide a concise overview of your career or academic goals. Mention any specific areas or projects you are passionate about.
Request for Meeting or Discussion: Politely request a brief meeting, phone call, or even an email exchange. Be flexible and respectful of their time.
Closing: Express gratitude for their time and consideration. Include a polite closing statement (e.g., "Thank you for considering my request"). Include a professional closing (e.g., "Best Regards" or "Sincerely"). Add your full name & contact information.
Tips & Tricks
Proofread: Double check that your email is free of typos, and is formatted correctly. Write these emails on a computer or a laptop, as writing them on a cellphone may change the way the text formats!
Be concise & specific: These emails are often skimmed over by the person reading them- state what you want/are hoping to get right away and don’t bury it! If you are suggesting a meeting or call, try and list some times you are available. You want to make it as easy as possible to set up this networking opportunity.
Send a follow up email: If you have sent your email and received no response, try sending another email to follow up. Phrase it as checking in, (e.g. “I was writing to follow up on my previous email…”). Use this opportunity to briefly reiterate the strongest points from your last email, but don’t go on too long, (e.g. “Since the last time I wrote, I have had the opportunity to read more about your work on ____, and I developed a deeper understanding and appreciation for its importance…”)
Don’t feel disheartened by a lack of response: Especially when contacting academic professionals, you will often find that your emails go unanswered. These people receive so many emails per day, and could have missed your message easily. Everyone gets ghosted on emails. Be determined and persistent! (Well, unless they reply and say no)