Every African freelancer has one experience in common: applying to dozens of jobs and getting no responses. The traditional method of searching for and applying to jobs through various platforms and waiting to be contacted can be very draining. Now, imagine if there were a simpler, more direct, and attractive way to contact employers. That is what the world of cold pitching brings to you. 

With how competitive the marketplace has become, knowing how to write cold e-mails is a move that can make all the difference in getting your dream job. Cold emailing allows you to reach potential employers or industry leaders, even if they are not currently hiring – they can still see you. It is about starting a conversation, showing value, and opening doors that would otherwise stay closed.

In this article, we’ll break it all down just for you, from knowing about cold email structuring to designing the perfect cold email to real email pitch examples that can give you fast responses. 

Let’s get into it!

Why Cold Emailing Works

Cold emailing can be easily dismissed by those because it appears intimidating or intrusive. Yet done correctly, it is among the strongest tactics for gaining attention, especially in stealth job markets where employment is filled before there is even a formal announcement.

Here’s why cold emailing works:

• Access to decision-makers directly.
• Demonstrates proactivity and assertiveness.
• Avoids computer systems and algorithms.
• Opens up doors where there were none.

However, the success of sending cold emails is largely dependent on how you write the cold email and what you write.

The Way to Write Cold Emails

Understanding the importance of Cold Emails is one thing; knowing how to write cold emails is another. Let’s look at the component of writing Cold emails. 

1. Compelling Subject Line

Your impression matters a lot when writing cold emails. This is why you need to keep it short, personalised, and relevant.

2. Personal Greeting

In writing a perfect cold email, one basic thing to avoid is starting with lines like “To whom it may concern.” That doesn’t show the thorough work of someone seriously looking to stand out from a sea of applicants or cold pitchers. Seize the opportunity to start with their name if you can obtain it. For example, start with: Hi Collins, Hi Debbie. 

3. Introduction & Hook

Like every well-structured letter, you must introduce yourself briefly and state how you know about them or why you are writing to them. Your purpose must be clearly stated in the letter, briefly. 

 4. Value Proposition

Another key aspect of structuring your cold emails is presenting the value you bring to the company. Here you make the connection between what you can do and their company’s needs. Don’t just speak about your abilities, say how you can help them.

 5. Call to Action

Make it easy to respond. Don’t ask for a job. Ask for 15 minutes of their time or a quick call to learn more and talk about how you can help them achieve their goals. At the closing phase, be polite and thankful, and include contact information for future reference. 

Best Cold Emailing Practices You Can Adopt 

 1. Do a Thorough Research

Research the company and the person you’re emailing. Mention something specific, such as a recent article they published, a new product launch, or an event they have just attended, so the email appears personal and relevant.

2. Keep It Short

The most effective cold emails are typically under 150 words. Busy people don’t have time to read long messages. Keep it short, precise, and direct. 

 3. Be Human

Avoid using overly formal or robotic language. Be clear, confident, and conversational. Be a natural. 

4. Follow Up

If you don’t receive a response, it’s fine to send one or two follow-up emails a few days apart. Politely remind them and let them know you’re still interested.

Common Cold Emailing Mistakes to Avoid

1. Too Generic: If your email could be sent to any company, it’ll likely get ignored. Make it specific, don’t send one cold email to several countries. It doesn’t show seriousness. 
2. Too Self-Centred: It needs to be about them, not you. Write about the values you can bring to them. 
3. Attachments: Avoid sending a portfolio or résumé unless you are specifically asked to do so. Doing this will likely fall into spam.
4. Spelling Mistakes: Avoid grammatical and spelling errors; this can be easily done by re-reading your emails. 
5. Asking for Work Right Away: In your first email, try to establish a relationship first before asking for a job opportunity. 

Conclusion

Learning how to write effective cold emails to secure your next job is not something to dismiss; it is a powerful job-searching technique that becomes more effective when you understand the methods. 

With the right cold email structure, a strong value proposition, and the right amount of patience, you’ll turn your cold email into a job opening. One thing you should know is that sending cold emails is like planting seeds; some grow and produce fruits, and some, well, they just never yield. You can also join communities to stay informed about available job opportunities.