When it comes to sales prospecting, it's more important than ever that you write concise, effective communication.
According to Statista, we’re expected to send and receive over 333 billion emails daily by the end of 2022 — meaning it's not easy to get noticed in someone's email inbox.
Even if you do get your prospect’s attention, you can’t expect them to read your long, fluffy emails filled with the buzzwords of the day when they have many other emails to open. As such, it’s crucial to make your communication clear, to the point, and relevant.![Download Now: 25 Sales Email Templates [Free Access]](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/53/be67aa79-8dbe-4938-8256-fdf195247a9c.png)
Download NowHere are a few things to consider as you write an email that’d help you with sales prospecting.
How to Write an Email to a Potential Customer
- Spend some time on the subject line.
- Introduce yourself.
- Consider where they're at in the buyer's journey.
- Hone in on their pains and provide value.
- Push your value proposition.
1. Spend some time on the subject line.
According to Convince&Convert, 35% of email recipients open an email based on the subject line alone. The rest consider other factors in addition to the subject line. All of this is to say that your audience will not read your email content unless they first click the subject line.
It should grab them. And compel them to click and read further.
Here's what you should be doing if you want to write good email subject lines:
- Use personalization.
- Pose a compelling question.
- Use concise and action-oriented language.
- Leverage scarcity and exclusivity.
Check out our post about the best sales email subject lines if you want to see some of these tips in action.
2. Introduce yourself.
You'll be more likely to gain traction if they already know, like, and trust you. But everyone has to start somewhere, right?
If they've never received communication from you, tell them a bit about yourself in a way that's warm and authentic. In essence, you should be conveying who you are and why they should listen to you. At the same time, it’s important to make it about them. For example, your email sales introduction could go something like this:
"My name is [Name], and I'm reaching out because..."
The following sentence could easily be a question to open a loop or a short elevator pitch to establish trust and authority.
25 Free Sales Email Templates
Save time, find new ways to reach out to prospects, and send emails that actually convert.
- First-Touch Emails
- Follow-Up Emails
- Break-Up Emails
- Full Email Sequence
3. Consider where they're at in the buyer's journey.
There's no point in selling yourself as a provider if they haven't decided on a type of solution yet. This is where your CRM and their behavior on your website can be valuable tools.
If they've opted into consideration or decision stage content, you can ask them more pointed questions to drive them to a purchasing decision. However, suppose they've only opted into awareness stage content. In that case, it might help to take a more informational and educational approach because their behavior indicates they're not ready to make a decision yet.
4. Hone in on their pains and provide value.
No one wants to read a sales email. Instead, they want help with their challenges. With this in mind, you should establish empathy and rapport with them while providing value.
For example:
"I see you host several campus events per year. I know it can be tough to get the students attentive and interested. I work with companies like Facebook and Google to help promote their college recruitment events."
5. Push your value proposition.
If no one else in the space does it like you, say so and provide social proof to back it up. This can be in the form of a testimonial, case study, or exciting statistic. This tactic is even more effective if they can "see themselves" in the example, so curate your social proof to include the customers you've served that are similar to them. This helps them see your customer's success story and think, "If they could do it for them, they can do it for me."
25 Free Sales Email Templates
Save time, find new ways to reach out to prospects, and send emails that actually convert.
- First-Touch Emails
- Follow-Up Emails
- Break-Up Emails
- Full Email Sequence
Sample Business Introduction Letter to Prospective Clients
Here are several examples that can inspire your own prospecting techniques.
A couple of caveats:
- These are generalized to a greater degree than emails we would typically send; they apply to all types of companies and categories. (I've given you some examples of different languages you can use as a guide.)
- You can certainly get more creative than the email examples below, but be careful. That can backfire if you get too cutesy or familiar. You can pair email design templates with content to customize and build emails that stand out, delight your clients, and gets you the results you’re looking for.
1. Landing the First Meeting: Introduction Email to Potential Clients
This email would be used as an initial introduction to your company. The key is immediately establishing your expertise and asking for the meeting reasonably early.
Hi [Prospect],
[Your name] with [your company]. We're a Y company specializing in [choose either your primary vertical or a vertical you have experience in] to [insert a typical challenge you help clients face].
I'm wondering if you might be open to an initial conversation to gauge a fit?
We've worked with companies like [insert 2-3 clients here relative to the vertical] to [insert a typical client goal].
If you have a minute or two to learn more about us, you can visit us here at [site]. If I don't hear from you, I will reach out to you via phone later in the week.
Thank you,
[Your Name]
Why It Works
This email works because it’s direct and straight to the point. The second paragraph tells them why you’ll be valuable to them, which is great because most people don’t have time to go through a long essay.
2. Landing the First Meeting: Follow-Up Email
If you've been referred to a prospect, use this template to make that connection. The great part is that you'll have a warm start to building rapport.
Hi [first name],
I hope this email finds you well! [Mutual connection] suggested that I reach out to you because we both share a common [interest, industry, pain point].
I took a look at your business and noticed that [personalized comment based on research]. I think we can offer some valuable insights and solutions to help you [business outcome].
Would you be open to setting up a call to discuss this further? I'm available [suggested dates and times] and would love to hear your thoughts.
Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing back from you soon.
Best,
[Your name]
Why It Works
This email template leverages the power of referrals. The mutual connection provides a level of familiarity and credibility that can help to build trust quickly. By personalizing the message based on research, the sender can show that they are genuinely interested in helping the recipient achieve their business outcome. The recipient benefits from receiving a referral to a potential solution provider, which saves them time and effort in their search.
25 Free Sales Email Templates
Save time, find new ways to reach out to prospects, and send emails that actually convert.
- First-Touch Emails
- Follow-Up Emails
- Break-Up Emails
- Full Email Sequence
3. Landing the First Meeting: Follow-Up Email
This would be used as a follow-up to the above email (either the next day or the following week), and I would recommend the subject line: "Sorry I Missed You." We often see 30% to 40% open rates with this email. You'll also want to introduce a case study at this point.
Hi [Prospect],
Quickly following up on my email from yesterday. I tried to call you but was unable to connect. I was hoping to set up a call to introduce my company, [company name]. Do you have 30 minutes anytime early next week that would work?
While I have you, I thought you might find some interest in our work with [client]. We helped them [achieve goal], resulting in [ideally you have a % to use here, but any meaningful result will suffice]. You can read the whole story here: [Provide case study link.]
As a reminder, we're a Y company, expert (or specializing) in the X category. We've worked with [name 2-3 clients] and many others to [achieve goal].
Best,
[Your Name]
Why It Works
The subject line is intriguing and will likely lead them to open the email. Using a case study offers social proof, which gets them thinking about how you can also help them like you helped others.
4. Landing the First Meeting: The Expert Opinion Email
Offering help is the typical route sales reps go when reaching out to prospects, but try asking for help and see how the odds work in your favor. Finding solutions experts on problems you're working on can be a great way to build your network and find some mutually beneficial opportunities to work together later on.
Hi [first name],
I came across your expertise in [specific topic] and thought you might be the right person to seek input from.
We're currently working on [project/strategy] and would love to get your perspective on [specific question or challenge]. I believe that your insights could be incredibly valuable as we continue to develop our plans.
Would you be available for a quick call or email exchange at some point this week? I'd love to hear your thoughts and discuss further how we might be able to work together in the future.
Looking forward to your response.
Best,
[Your name]
Why It Works
This email template works because it shows that the sender has done their research and values the recipient's expertise. By asking for their input, the sender is able to build a relationship and trust with the recipient. The recipient benefits from being recognized as an expert in their field, which can lead to further opportunities for collaboration.
5. After the Meeting: Meeting Follow-Up Email
Let's say you met with the prospective client, and you did an initial discovery call to assess their needs and goals. Of course, with longer-term sales cycles, you won't close a deal after that initial meeting, so you should still keep them engaged by moving to the next step.
One of the best ways to get them to open your meeting follow-up email is by piquing their interest with a subject line like, "This may help with [pain point they mentioned]" or "Here's that information you requested." Then, you can request to move the conversation forward with the template below:
Hi [Name],
Thanks for taking the time to meet with me the other day. I haven't been able to stop thinking about [personal detail from the conversation].
Anyway, based on our discussion about [pain point or business challenge], we can definitely help you [what they hope to achieve]. I spoke with the team, and they provided me with this extra info:
[Additional resources, social proof, and/or information the client requested]
Would you be able to hop on a call some time this week to discuss more?
Best,
[Your Name]
Why It Works
It works because it conveys personal interest in them — and people love the attention. Highlighting the pain point shows you’re attentive to their needs and will likely cement your place as the go-to solution.
25 Free Sales Email Templates
Save time, find new ways to reach out to prospects, and send emails that actually convert.
- First-Touch Emails
- Follow-Up Emails
- Break-Up Emails
- Full Email Sequence
6. After the Meeting: Limited Time Offer Email
This template works well when time is of the essence and you've dotted your i's and crossed your t's on qualifying the prospect.
Hi [first name],
I noticed that you've shown interest in [product/service] but haven't had a chance to take advantage of our offer yet. I wanted to extend a special offer to you as a valued [company name] customer.
For a limited time, you can get [discount] off your first purchase. We believe our solutions can make a significant impact on [business outcome], and we'd love to prove it to you.
Please let me know if you're interested in taking advantage of this offer, and I'll provide you with all the details you need.
Best,
[Your name]
Why It Works
This email template works because it creates a sense of urgency and exclusivity. By offering a limited-time discount, the sender encourages the recipient to take action quickly. The discount also provides an added incentive to try the sender's solution. The recipient benefits from receiving an exclusive discount, which can lead to cost savings or a trial of a new solution.
7. After the Meeting: Sales Proposal Email to Client
Consider this email a digital elevator pitch. You want to reference the different elements central to a conventional sales pitch: problem, value statement, "how you do it," proof points, customer stories, and an engaging question.
This is the hardest sales-oriented email you will send in this series. Make it personal but authoritative. Really show that your product or service can suit their specific needs and goals.
Hi [Prospect],
As I've gotten to know [their company] better, I've come to believe that our services align well with your company's immediate needs and ultimate goals.
We can offer [types of solutions] to allow you to solve [specific problems they're facing]. We use different tactics than our competitors, including [differentiators from other companies in your space].
We've consistently been recognized for our exceptional outcomes and service, like [specific accomplishments you can reference]. For example, we were able to help one of our customers [reference a specific, relevant customer story].
Given how well our [product or service] suits your needs, I think we could do some great work together.
[Engaging question to wrap things up]?
Best,
[Your Name]
Why It Works
This is a hard-hitting, impactful email that provides extra information about your company and further cements your authority. You’re bringing out the big guns now. You tell them what their problem is and waste no time proffering a solution.
8. Post-Proposal Send: Follow-Up Email
This one should be used sparingly and only if your prospect has gone dark. This email typically gets a response as it gently points out to your prospect that they've gone dark, but you've stuck with them.
It's simple but effective, and it continues to provide the prospect with opportunities to learn about your company, read your thought leadership, and be reminded of your expertise.
Typically, the prospect's response is apologetic and appreciative. And even if you don't get the business at this point, at least you'll know if you can move on or keep this prospect on your radar.
You'll typically want to use the subject line, "[Company Name] — Still Interested?"
Hi [Prospect],
Hope you had a good weekend (been well, etc.*).
Not sure if you've been really slammed or you've decided to hold off for now, but I wanted to see if you might have any feedback on our proposal?
Certainly, no rush on our end — I don't want to become a pest if you'd prefer I hold off on contact.
I also thought you might have some interest in a recent post on [a post specific to the prospect's category, or if you don't have one, a category-specific, third-party article]. You can read it here: [link].
Look forward to hearing from you.
Thanks,
[Your Name]
*I would never lead with "Hope you've been well/had a good weekend" unless you've actually spoken with the person.
Why It Works
The subject line “Still Interested” will likely get the attention of even the busiest of managers. While it appears that you won’t be closing the deal, dropping helpful information for free will keep you in their good books. If you don’t close a deal right now, you might be at the top of the list next time.
9. Post-Proposal Send: The Case Study Email
Providing value is the name of the sales game this year and that goes for prospecting, not just customer onboarding. Sharing relevant case studies that are well-crafted and apply precisely to your potential customer is a great way to show them that you've done your research and are here to help.
Hi [first name],
I came across your business while researching [your industry] and couldn't help but notice [pain point your solution could address].
I wanted to share a success story from one of our clients in [your industry] who was facing similar challenges. [Provide brief story and results].
It's incredible to see the impact our solutions have on businesses like yours, and I believe we can help you achieve similar results. Would you be interested in learning more about how we can help you achieve [business outcome]?
Thanks for your time, and I look forward to hearing back from you soon.
Best,
[Your name]
Why It Works
By sharing a success story from a similar business, the sender can show the recipient that they understand their pain points and have a track record of success. The recipient benefits from seeing tangible evidence that the sender's solution can help them achieve their business outcome.
10. Last-Try Send: Follow-Up Email
It's essential to follow up with prospects more than once, but knowing when to throw in the towel is equally important. At a certain point, you're wasting their time and detracting from your time spent on prospects who are actually ready to close.
This email should only be used when you can't spend any more time chasing a prospect and need to either push them to action or close the books on them — for now.
Hi [Prospect],
I've tried to reach out a few times now without a reply. Usually, when this happens, it means my offer is not a priority right now. Is it safe for me to assume that's the case here?
If it is, I won't bother you anymore. If you'd rather I follow up in a month or two when you have more bandwidth, I'm happy to do that as well.
Thanks for your time.
Regards,
[Your Name]
Why It Works
If the prospect has been vague about closing the deal, this email works because it demands a direct answer. Short, straight-to-the-point, and polite, it’ll likely get a response from the prospective client, even if it’s a no.
Sample Email to Approach New Client
Here's a sample email you can use to approach a new client. It's based on the first introduction email template.
Email templates like the one above reduce the amount of time I spend doing admin while helping me connect with uber-busy buyers. I hope they'll do the same for you. Introduce them into your email cadence and see what kind of a difference they make.
Why It Works
It works because it directs their attention to your value proposition early on, and by the end of the email, the client would likely have decided whether they need you or not.
25 Free Sales Email Templates
Save time, find new ways to reach out to prospects, and send emails that actually convert.
- First-Touch Emails
- Follow-Up Emails
- Break-Up Emails
- Full Email Sequence
Tips for Sending Proposal Emails to Clients
- Use an attention-grabbing subject line that piques the recipient's interest and previews the content of the email.
The subject line is the first thing the recipient sees, and it's critical to capture their attention and encourage them to open the email. A good subject line must be specific, relevant, and create a sense of urgency to grab the reader's attention. - Thank the recipient for their time and set clear expectations for what they can expect in the email.
Thanking the recipient for their time subconsciously registers a positive emotion that primes the reader for your message. Setting the expectation of what the recipient is about to read helps manage their attention and highlight the important elements they should look out for. - Add a personal touch by using the recipient's name to build rapport.
Addressing a client by name can help establish a personal connection and build trust, which is essential for successful sales. When possible, take the time to personalize your message beyond using the recipient's name. You can do this by asking specific questions regarding their work or by mentioning current events in business that they might be interested in. - Provide a brief overview of your company and its expertise, highlighting niche offerings that may be relevant to the recipient.
Your opening paragraph should introduce your company and your sales pitch to the prospect while also highlighting the resources that you believe will translate to the prospects' unique problems. - Focus on the benefits of your proposal and explain how it addresses the recipient's pain points.
Providing value based on the prospect's specific set of problems can significantly increase your chances of building a lasting relationship with prospects. The focus should be on the customer's needs, not on your company's products. - Use bullet points to quickly highlight key points.
When it comes to writing proposals, ease of reading plays a big role in how your message is received. Bulleted lists help in presenting important information more efficiently and allow the reader to scan quickly. - Provide a concise description of the proposed solution, including pricing, timeline, and deliverables.
When it comes to decision-making, transparency is key. Clearly presenting the key elements of your solution, including the pricing, timeline, and deliverables makes it easier for the prospect to evaluate how it fits into their requirements. - Address potential objections the recipient may have by anticipating them and providing satisfactory solutions.
If you anticipate any objections, you can get ahead of them by addressing them in your email. Anticipating and addressing any challenges or misunderstandings helps build trust and credibility. - Provide social proof, such as testimonials from satisfied clients or case studies, to support your proposal and build credibility.
Social proof is an essential component of any sales process and can significantly influence the prospects' decision to make a purchase. Testimonials from satisfied clients and case studies can help validate your claims and make your proposal more credible. - End the email by inviting the recipient to take the next step, such as scheduling a call or meeting.
Your proposal email should have a clear and specific call to action that invites the prospect to take the next step. Encourage the reader to get in touch with you by providing your contact information and making yourself available.
Use Sales Email Templates to Nurture Leads
Even though your prospects might have crowded inboxes, they still take the time out to read and respond to emails that address their pain points and needs.
The sales email templates in the post offer you a starting point for creating these types of valuable emails.
Remember that many other people would be reading this guide, so don’t just copy and paste this template. Instead, model it after your business and prospect’s needs.
Editor's note: This post was originally published in October 2015 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.
