Cold Email Templates Hub
Don't reinvent the wheel. These 6 templates have been tested and proven to book interviews. Copy, customize, and hit send.
1. The Direct Approach (Open Role)
Use this when you see a job posting and want to skip the line by reaching out to the hiring manager.
Subject: [Role] application - [Your Name] Hi [First Name], I saw you're hiring for a [Role Title] at [Company]. I've spent the last [X] years doing [Specific relevant skill or achievement from job description], most recently at [Past Company] where I [Measurable result]. I applied via the website, but I wanted to reach out directly to express my genuine interest in how your team is approaching [Company Goal/Challenge]. You can check out my portfolio and GitHub here: - [Link] - [Link] Let me know if you are open to a quick 10-minute chat this week. Best, [Your Name]
2. The Informational Interview
Use this to build a network before a job even opens.
Subject: Question about your engineering practices at [Company] Hi [First Name], I've been following [Company] for a while and I'm really impressed by the speed at which you ship features. I'm a [Current Role] exploring my next career move, and I'm currently auditing engineering cultures at top companies. I'd love to learn how your team structure allows you to build so efficiently. Do you have 15 minutes for a quick chat next Tuesday or Thursday? Thanks for your time, [Your Name]
3. The Referral Request (Fellow Alum)
Leveraging shared university or past-company connections.
Subject: Fellow [University] grad navigating tech Hi [First Name], Go [Mascot]! I was looking for fellow alumni in the software space and your profile caught my eye. I recently graduated and I'm very interested in the [Role] position opening at [Company]. Given your experience there, I would love to hear your honest perspective on the team culture. If you are open to it, could we schedule a brief 10-minute call sometime this week? Best regards, [Your Name]
4. The Startup Pitch
Reaching out directly to Founders or CTOs at early-stage startups.
Subject: Ideas for [Company]'s onboarding flow Hi [First Name], I tried out [Product] over the weekend and was blown away by the core functionality. However, I noticed the user onboarding flow could be optimized to reduce drop-off. I built a quick mockup of how you could streamline the signup process using [Technology]. You can see it here: [Link] I'm a full-stack engineer and I'd love to help you build at this velocity full-time. Let me know if you're open to chatting. Cheers, [Your Name]
5. The "No Ask" Value Add
Providing value completely free of charge to get on their radar.
Subject: Fixed a typo in your docs Hi [First Name], I was reading your engineering blog and noticed a couple of broken links and typos in the API section. I went ahead and submitted a quick PR to fix them: [Link] Hope this saves you some time! I'll be keeping an eye out for any engineering roles opening on your team—huge fan of what you're building. Thanks, [Your Name]
6. The Professional Follow-up
You should always follow up 3-4 days after your first email.
Subject: Re: [Original Subject Line] Hi [First Name], I know your inbox is probably overflowing, so I'll keep this brief. I'm still very interested in the [Role] opening and believe my background in [Skill] is a strong fit for your immediate needs. If you the position is already filled, no worries! Otherwise, I'm available anytime next week for a quick call. Best, [Your Name]