From LinkedIn cold messaging to traditional cold emailing, a freelancer’s relationship with pitching is always a mixture of love and hate. That’s because we understand it is a necessity for our freelancing business to succeed. In that case, might as well use cold email templates that work compared to writing our own in blindsight.
Option 1: Pitching to Tracked Site Visitors
Retargeting campaigns work for legitimate reasons. People landing on your website at least show interest compared to 100% cold leads. The template below is suitable for leads that qualify as a prospect. Alternatively, you can also tweak the template to ask for collaborations.
Template
Hello {[Name]},
Did you find what you were looking for on {[page title 1]} and {[page title 2]}? I looked into {[lead company name]} and would love to offer some insight into {[potential pain point one]} and {[potential pinpoint two]}.
{Insert a one-to-two sentence description of your company that’s tailored to the lead’s industry.}
I’d love to have a conversation with you. What would be a good time to jump on a quick call?
Best,
{Your signature with contact info and link to your website}
Pros
Messaging someone who already showed interest usually makes things easier. You’re more likely to get a response than emailing a complete stranger. You can also tell what they are looking for based on their actions, which would help with personalizing your message.
Cons
First of all, you probably need to pay for a tool to get the visitor identity off your website, and that’s not a cheap investment. Also, some people might feel stalked since their online activities were supposed to be private.
Also, this method could be against the privacy policy in certain places. However, it is an effective way to get connected with more qualified leads.
Option 2: The “PAS” Model
PAS stands for “Problem, Agitate, Solution”. You start with an industry pain point, focus on the urgency and consequences of not taking action, then provide a solution to the lead. This template spins off traditional sales methods and works great in pushing someone over the cusp to take real action.
Template
Hello {[Name]},
For years, the {[industry]} struggles with {[pain point]}. As a result, businesses {[direct consequence]} and {[dollar value]} are lost. Luckily, it’s never too late to take action.
With {[your solution]}, we {[what you solve]}.
If this sounds interesting, let’s jump on a brief call and talk! You can book a time with me via {[meeting link]}.
Best regards,
{[Your Signature]}
Pros
With the economy fluctuating, many business owners are feeling agitated. This means it won’t take much to push them into responding since they’re on search of a good solution.
Cons
This template requires a high level of industry knowledge. Your lead is frustrated enough with the current situation that they have no patience for those posing to be experts. So, make sure you’ve done your research before using this template!
Option 3: The “Direct Me to The Right Person” Approach
This template is useful when you need to connect with the correct point of contact. When using this approach, make sure you’re honest about who you’re looking for and why. And write a proper subject line so you don’t end up in the spam box!
Template
Hello {[Name]},
Could you help me connect with the person in charge of {[department]}? I noticed {[lead painpoint]} and I believe I have a solution. We offer {[your service or product]} designed to {[visualize an ideal scenario]}.
I’d appreciate you pointing me in the right direction!
Best regards,
{[Your signature]}
Pros
This is one of the less selling cold email templates, so you’re more likely to get a decent response. Therefore, you’re more likely to get a response, even if it’s just someone asking for more details about why you want to get connected.
Cons
Not everyone has the decision-making power, and regular staff members may not feel comfortable referring a stranger to their supervisor or someone in another department.
Option 4: The “AIDA” Approach
“AIDA” stands for attention, interest, desire, and action. It usually opens with a critical yet little-known fact in your lead’s industry. Once you’ve hooked their attention, build relevance so your lead becomes interested in your offers.
Template
Hello {[Name]},
Did you know that {[little known fact with data]}? This means {[potential impact on your lead’s company]}. And that’s why I’m reaching out.
We {[what you offer]} and have {[metnion similar past clients/projects]}, and you could be next. Use {[meeting link]} to book a call with us and find out how we can pivot together.
Let’s do this!
Best regards,
{[Your Sinature]}
Pros
This template establishes you as the industry expert and adds to your credibility. When your lead is surprised that you know something they don’t about their industry, they’re more likely to listen to what you have to say.
Cons
Again, industry expertise is required for this template to work. Outdated data or irrelevant examples would turn your lead away in an instant. You also want to ensure your solution hits the bull’s eye right on.
Option 5: The Case Study
Similar to the previous template, this one focuses on your past success. You can also embed a link to download a full case study file, but a brief summary is usually all you need.
Template
Hello {[Name]},
Not so long ago, we helped {[previous client] + [a brief summary of the project]}. As a result, {[most outstanding results]}.
Would that interest you? If so, let’s get on a call and talk about how we can collaborate! You can book a time with me via {[meeting link]}.
Best regards,
{[Your Signature]}
Pros
Nothing says more about your capabilities than tangible proof. Analytics, portfolio items, and proven ROI will get you the response you want, period.
Cons
You have to have impressive previous results or a solid portfolio to use this template, which means many new freelancers may have to find a different solution. Also, using a new portfolio that clearly came from a bootcamp program will not get your lead to respond.
Option 6: The Networking Pitch
This is another non-selling cold email template. It’s great to use with participants at networking events or your business group members — or anyone you have a legitimate reason to be interested in and reach out to.
Template
Hello {[Name]}
I came across your information {[where you found them]} and noticed we both {[your similarities]}. Currently, I’m looking for {[what you’re seeking]}. And I’d love to see how I can help you too.
Would you be interested in a quick fifteen-minute call with me?
If so, you can book a time with me at {[inser tlink]}.
Best regards,
{[Your Singature]}
Pros
Most people are sick of cold emails. Therefore, a genuine inquiry asking to connect and get to know each other sometimes work wonders. Plus, your prospects aren’t stupid. They know why you sent the email. It’s the good emotional impression that will get them to reply.
Cons
Since you threw out a general inquiry, be ready for a general response. This template doesn’t help qualify your leads, so you might waste time on useless “introductory calls” unless you have a pre-qualified contact list.
Conclusion
I’ve used these cold email templates to grow my business in the past four years. Many of them have brought incredible responses and yielded connections that probably will last a lifetime.
However, keep in mind:
When you pitch to someone, always be sincere and straightforward. Respect your lead’s time as well as your own. Trust me. A qualified lead will see the value in what you do, as long as you know what you’re talking about.
Finally, invest in a CRM for freelancers or small businesses so you can track your email performances and follow up promptly. It’s worth the investment.
Xiao DaCunha
With a deep passion for content creation and creative writing, Xiao Faria finds a strong sense of accomplishment in creating high-quality content that engages the audience and benefits optimization.
Throughout years of practice, Xiao has learned to communicate with the readers in the most efficient and effective way. Her experience as a visual artist has only aided her in creating refreshing and entertaining content.
