Select Your Email Style
Professional Initial Outreach
Formal and structured approach focusing on credentials and business metrics
Suggested Subject Lines
[Your Company] - Solving [Specific Industry Challenge]
Opportunity: [Your Company] addressing $[X]B [industry] challenge
[Your Company]: [X]% improvement in [key metric] for [industry]
Additional Tips for Success
Research Thoroughly
Before sending, research the investor's portfolio, recent investments, and public comments. Tailor your approach to their specific interests and investment thesis.
The Subject Line Matters
Your subject line is the gateway to getting your email opened. Make it compelling, specific, and under 50 characters when possible.
Know When to Move On
After three follow-ups without response, it's generally best to pause your outreach to that investor. You can always reach out again in the future with significant new developments.
Keep It Short and Focused
Investors skim emails. Aim for 3–5 short paragraphs max. Get to the point quickly, and make every sentence count.
Include a clear ask
End your email with a soft and specific ask like "Happy to share our deck if this aligns" or "Would love your quick thoughts."
Show Traction Early
Include metrics or milestones that demonstrate momentum (e.g., MRR, user growth, partnerships). Numbers build credibility.
Personalize the First Line
Mention something specific about the investor (e.g., a recent podcast, tweet, or investment) to show this isn't a mass email.
Link (preferably), Don't Attach
Share a link to your deck (Google Drive, Notion, or DocSend) instead of attaching a file. It's cleaner and more mobile-friendly.
Use your startup domain (preferably)
It's always better to send emails from [yourname]@yourstartup.com instead of a personal Gmail. It looks more legit and shows you're serious.
Don't Apologize or Undersell
Avoid phrases like "Sorry to bother you" or "I know you're busy." Be respectful but confident — you're offering an opportunity.
Follow Up Smartly
Wait 3–4 days between follow-ups. Keep them brief and friendly, and add something new (traction, update, news, etc.).
Avoid buzzwords
Be clear and simple. Skip jargon like "disruptive" or "AI-powered" and explain things like you're talking to a smart friend.