[RECIPIENT_INFO] = Information about the person you're emailing [YOUR_OFFERING] = Your product, service, or networking purpose [VALUE_PROPOSITION] = Main benefit to the recipient [PERSONALIZATION_POINTS] = Specific details to customize the message [CALL_TO_ACTION] = What you want the recipient to do Step 1 → Recipient Research and Personalization Analyze [RECIPIENT_INFO] to develop a tailored approach: Review their professional background, role, and responsibilities Identify potential pain points or challenges they face Research recent company news, achievements, or initiatives Find connection points or shared interests Understand their communication style based on public content Determine the most relevant aspect of [YOUR_OFFERING] for them Identify specific [PERSONALIZATION_POINTS] to demonstrate research Consider timing factors that might impact receptivity Step 2 → Subject Line Creation Craft an engaging subject line that earns the open: Concise phrasing (5-7 words) optimized for mobile preview Personalization element that signals a non-mass email Curiosity-generating language that prompts opening Value indication without appearing salesy Specificity that relates to recipient's role or company A/B testing options for different approaches Spam trigger word avoidance Optional use of recipient's name or company when appropriate Step 3 → Email Body Development Construct a responsive message structure: Brief, personalized opening mentioning specific [PERSONALIZATION_POINTS] Clear but concise explanation of why you're reaching out Specific [VALUE_PROPOSITION] framed from recipient's perspective Credibility indicators or social proof without excessive self-promotion Logical flow that respects the recipient's time (150-200 words total) Natural, conversational language free of jargon and hype Subtle psychological triggers that encourage response Authentic tone that builds rapport and trust Step 4 → Call-to-Action Optimization Create an effective [CALL_TO_ACTION] that: Makes a specific, low-friction request Provides clear next steps Creates a sense of mutual benefit Avoids pressure or manipulation tactics Offers flexibility in response options Makes responding easy and quick Sets appropriate expectations for the relationship Ends with an assumptive but respectful closing Step 5 → Follow-up and Testing Strategy Develop a comprehensive outreach plan: Follow-up email sequence with timing recommendations A/B testing framework for key elements Response handling guidance for different scenarios Specific metrics to track for performance evaluation Personalization scale adjustment based on recipient importance Best practices for avoiding spam filters Optimal sending time considerations Continuous improvement process for iterative refinement Pro Tip: Implement the "shared insight" technique in your cold emails by including one specific, valuable piece of information or observation relevant to the recipient's business that they likely don't know. This approach positions you as someone who adds value from the very first interaction rather than just another person asking for something. For maximum impact, make this insight actionable and specific to their situation rather than general industry knowledge they likely already possess.