Cold emailing is usually related to sales, but it doesn’t have to be.
Building a valuable network can be critical for success, and instead of trying to pitch your service or product, why not just…cold email someone for a coffee chat?
You can’t underestimate a handshake or, face-to-face meetup.
People trust people, and they’re often more willing to go for coffee instead of endless direct messages through a social media platform.
Over the years, I yielded great results by approaching others with a cold email for a coffee invite.
The purpose of your cold email is:
- Nurturing relationships
- Network opportunities
- Possibly some advice, without emphasizing it
When you eliminate the sales objective, but rather invite someone because you’re genuinely interested in that person, this could lead to a new, meaningful relationship.
Often, those who are willing to meet up are equally interested in your trajectory, what you’re working on, or are trying to find others who can resonate with their interests or goals.
Crafting A Cold Email For A Coffee Chat
It’s simpler than a B2B outreach email, but you still need to consider:
- Short, personal subject line
- A dense introduction about yourself
- Strong body text with a clear motive
- Close
Your subject line could be: “Coffee chat invite in central London”
I prefer to add a specific location, because it highlights you’re nearby and that can help the email open rate.
Hi Ari,
My name is Linda, and I have been following you on Linked/X/Threads for a while. I am the creator of xxx that specializes in xxxx, and you’ve been an inspiration for me when I started this business.
I was hoping if you could spare some time for a coffee chat in central London, and possibly get some advice about xxxx, and hear more about your experience in this field.
Looking forward to hearing from you and hopefully having a short meetup accompanied by a cup of coffee!
Kind regards
Ji
Key Notes Of The Cold Email
When you’re approaching someone who is more successful than you, remember that they value time, and be very direct with your approach.
State your purpose immediately and what you’re hoping to gain from it. Show genuine interests and highlight common interests or values.
If you do, it will be much easier to start a conversation through cold email or during a coffee chat.
If the person agrees to meet up, offer multiple dates and options. It removes friction and is more flexible for the other party that wants to meet with you.
Don’t forget that you’re the one asking. You’re the one who should be the most flexible and considerate.
Where To Meet For A Coffee Chat?
Always find, or propose a convenient location for them. You can always opt for a spot that’s easily accessible by public transportation or by car.
In case you’re unsure, ask them what’s convenient for them and emphasize you’re willing to commute, or meet at their suggested location.
If you can, always choose a quiet place. You don’t want to end up in the loudest or busiest places, where background noise can disturb the conversation.
Double-Confirm The Day Before
It happens when there’s a sudden change of schedule, and it’s best for you to confirm the day before the meetup if the coffee chat is still planned.
Reminding them politely can help you avoid misunderstandings,
Don’t go empty-handed either.
- Prepare yourself with direct questions you want to ask
- Keep your own story/intro short
- Don’t use your phone or anything that can cause disrespect
You could even highlight your preparation in the reminder:
“I prepared a few questions in advance, so I can ensure you that I am not taking too much of your time during our coffee chat.”
A coffee chat shouldn’t last longer than one hour. Always go with the assumption they’re on the clock, so you can keep the conversation structured.
Follow-Up & Improvise
Once in a while, you’ll find great people and share your enthusiasm or interests.
Whenever I had successful coffee chats, I sent them a follow-up email the next day or within 48 hours.
Follow your instincts. If you sense it’s a dud, still send that follow-up email but with fewer details.
If that other person feels a mutual alignment, you can go more in-depth and possibly offer a second coffee chat.
Final Word
In my early career, I have cold emailed hundreds of people like this. It was far more insightful than talking with dozens of random internet strangers who disappeared faster than I could change my underwear.
Starting relationships is easy; maintaining them is much harder.
I would rather have 5 meaningful relationships I can count on, than 100 mediocre ones who drain the life out of me every single day.
I can honestly say that a lot of my success stemmed from those cold email coffee chats. Not only did I gain clients, but also long-life friends, even if they’re currently living in different parts of the world.
When you’re always working from home (like me), that little change in the day of going out can do wonders for a healthier work-life balance.