How to write a networking email (examples and template)

A good networking email makes it easy for the other person to say yes to a small next step. It is not a pitch deck in inbox form.

Start with why you are writing

Open with a clear reason: a shared event, a mutual contact, their public work, or a precise question. One or two sentences is enough. Compliments work only when they prove you actually read or watched something specific.

Make a small, concrete ask

Ask for something bounded: a 15-minute call, a pointer to the right person, or feedback on one question. Large vague asks—“pick your brain sometime”—are hard to accept. Offer flexibility on time and an easy opt-out.

Template you can reuse

Subject: {{specific reason}}

Hi {{name}},

{{One sentence on how you found them or what you share.}} {{One sentence on what you are working on, without a hard sell.}} {{One concrete ask and the time it would take.}}

No pressure if timing is off—happy to try another month.

Thanks, {{you}}

Example

Hi Maya,

I watched your panel on agency deliverability last week, especially the point about warming new domains slowly. I am rebuilding outreach for a five-person team and would value 15 minutes on how you sequence first-touch follow-ups. If easier, a short reply with one resource also helps.

What to do next

Send one networking note this week using the template, then stop after a single polite follow-up if you hear nothing.