Crafting an effective email is a work of art (image: Angelrays)
by: Grayson Leverenz
The Goal: Establish contact with a succinct, professional email.
- Begin with a clear subject line indicating your intent. Most business people are inundated with email, and will appreciate knowing what to expect when they open your letter. If your subject line is ambiguous (e.g. Hi), your email may not be opened at all.
- If this is your first communication with the recipient, address them in a semi-formal manner using the salutation “Dear” coupled with their first name. While the US leans toward a more informal business style, establishing initial contact should be professional.
- Briefly introduce yourself, and get straight to the point. Tell them your name, how you found them and why you are interested in speaking to them.
- Propose two 30 minute increments that are convenient for you to talk. Ask if either of those times works for the recipient, and ask for the best number to reach them.
- Thank them for their time, and sign off with a warm closing, including a detailed signature.
Here’s an example of it all put together:
Subject: Current student seeking informational interview
Dear Carol,
My name is Olivia Adler. I am currently a first year student at (insert school name here), and came across your name in the alumni database.
In my Operations class, we just completed the HBS case on Best Company Ever. It was fascinating to dive into how you built your business into one of the top customer service organizations in the world. I would love to learn more about your role at Best Company Ever, and would greatly appreciate one-half hour of your time.
Would you be available either Monday 11/17 from 10:00am – 10:30am or Wednesday 11/19 from 2:30pm – 3:00pm? Please let me know if either of those times works for you, and, if so, the best number to reach you.
Thanks so much for your time.
All the best,
Olivia
–
Olivia Adler
MBA Candidate 2010, School
908-333-3333
olivia@school.edu
www.school.com
[...] Step One: Craft an effective informational interview request. [...]