How to Write a Connection Email: Tips and Best Practices for Effective Communication

Are you struggling to write a connection email that actually connects? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Writing a connection email can seem like an intimidating task, but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, with a few simple tips and tricks, you can write a connection email that will not only grab the recipient’s attention, but keep them interested and engaged.

But where do you start? Well, the good news is that writing a connection email doesn’t have to be complicated. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of crafting a connection email that will help you forge meaningful connections. We’ve even included examples that you can use and edit as needed, so you don’t have to start from scratch.

So why should you bother writing a connection email? Well, for starters, a well-crafted connection email can help you build relationships and grow your network. Whether you’re looking for a job, seeking mentorship, or simply want to expand your professional circle, a connection email can be a powerful tool to help you achieve your goals.

So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in and learn how to write a connection email that actually connects.

The Perfect Structure for a Connection Email

As someone who has sent numerous connection emails to important people, I’ve learned that the structure of the email is just as important as the content itself. After all, if your email is an unread mess, it doesn’t matter how impressive your qualifications are. Here is the perfect structure for a connection email, Tim Ferriss style:

1. The Subject Line: Your subject line should be short, catchy, and reflect the purpose of your email. For example, if you’re introducing yourself to a potential client, your subject line could be “Introduction from a [Your Profession] Expert”.

2. Start Off with a Compliment or Common Interest: Start your email off by mentioning something you admire about the recipient or a common interest you share. This helps to establish a connection and can make the recipient more receptive to your email.

3. Introduce Yourself and Explain Your Purpose: Be concise and to the point when introducing yourself and explaining why you’re writing. Avoid being self-promotional or overly salesy. Instead, keep the focus on how you can help the recipient.

4. Provide Value: You should aim to provide something of value to the recipient. This could be giving them a resource or information they could use, or offering to connect them with someone who could be helpful to them.

5. Call to Action: End your email with a clear call to action. This could be asking for a meeting, a phone call, or a response to your email. Make sure it’s clear what you want and that it’s easy for the recipient to take action.

6. End with Gratitude: Finally, end your email by thanking the recipient for their time and consideration. This shows that you respect their time and effort and can leave a positive lasting impression.

Remember, keep your email concise, to the point, and focused on adding value to the recipient. This structure, combined with Tim Ferriss’ no-nonsense writing style, can help you create effective connection emails that get results.

7 Connection Email Samples

Reconnecting with a Former Colleague

Dear [Name],

It has been a while since we last spoke, and I wanted to reach out to reconnect. I have been thinking about our time working together at [Company], and I wanted to catch up and hear about what you have been up to.

I hope this email finds you doing well. Since leaving [Company], I have taken on a new role at [New Company], working in [Department]. I have been enjoying the new challenges and opportunities that come with this position.

I would love to hear about what you have been up to since [Company], and potentially explore any opportunities to collaborate or work together in the future.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Introducing Yourself to a New Contact

Dear [Name],

I hope this email finds you doing well. I wanted to reach out and introduce myself to you. My name is [Your Name], and I work in [Department] at [Company]. I recently came across your work and was impressed by your [specific accomplishment or project].

I am interested in connecting further and potentially exploring any opportunities for collaboration or partnership between our companies. I look forward to hearing from you and learning more about your work.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Networking at an Industry Conference

Dear [Name],

I had the pleasure of meeting you at [Industry Conference] and wanted to follow up and connect further. I enjoyed our conversation about [Industry Trend], and I wanted to learn more about your work in [Specific Area].

As a fellow [Industry Title], I think it would be valuable to stay connected and potentially exchange insights or collaborate on future projects. Please let me know if you are interested in exploring any opportunities to work together.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Thanking a Professional Contact

Dear [Name],

I wanted to take a moment to thank you for your time and guidance during our recent conversation. Your insights and expertise in [Specific Area] were incredibly valuable, and I appreciate the support and encouragement you provided.

I am grateful for our continued professional relationship, and I look forward to staying in touch and potentially working together in the future.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Recommendation for a Former Employee

Dear [Hiring Manager],

I wanted to take the time to recommend [Former Employee] for any potential opportunities that may arise at [Company]. As [Former Employee’s] former supervisor, I had the pleasure of working closely with [Him/Her] on several projects, and was consistently impressed with [His/Her] attention to detail, work ethic, and collaborative nature.

[Former Employee] was a valued member of our team at [Company] and consistently went above and beyond in [specific accomplishment or project]. I have no doubt that [He/She] would make a valuable addition to any organization.

Please let me know if you have any further questions about [Former Employee] or if I can provide any additional information.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Introduction for a Job Applicant

Dear [Hiring Manager],

I wanted to take a moment and introduce you to [Name], a highly talented and qualified job applicant who I believe could make a valuable contribution to [Company].

I have had the pleasure of working alongside [Name] at [Former Company] and can attest to [His/Her] strong work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to consistently deliver high-quality work.

I believe that [Name] would be an excellent addition to your team at [Company] and would contribute positively to the company culture and success. Please let me know if you have any further questions or if I can provide any additional information.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Connecting with a Previous Client

Dear [Name],

It has been some time since we last spoke, but I wanted to reach out and reconnect with you. I hope this email finds you doing well. Since our collaboration, I have been working on some projects in [specific industry or area], and I thought it might be interesting to connect and share any insights or experiences we have had in this area.

Additionally, I wanted to see if there might be any potential opportunities for collaboration or partnership between our companies. Please let me know if you have any thoughts or ideas to explore further.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Tips for Writing a Connection Email

Writing a connection email requires finesse and tact. It’s not just about getting your message across, it’s about building a relationship with the recipient. Here are some tips that can help you write an effective connection email:

  • Start with a clear subject line – Make sure your subject line is concise and specific. It should pique the recipient’s interest and give them a reason to open your email.

  • Keep it short and sweet – People are busy, so you don’t want to waste their time. Keep your email brief and to the point. Stick to the most important details and avoid rambling.

  • Personalize your message – Customize your email with information that’s relevant to the recipient. Show that you’ve done your research and that you value their time.

  • Highlight mutual connections – If you have any connections in common with the recipient, mention them in your email. Mutual connections can help build trust and credibility.

  • Offer value – Provide something of value to the recipient. Whether it’s a helpful article, a professional introduction, or a valuable resource, make sure you’re giving something in return for their time.

These tips can help you craft a connection email that’s both effective and professional. Keep them in mind the next time you’re reaching out to someone new.

FAQs for Writing Effective Connection Emails


What information should I include in the subject line of my connection email?

Your subject line should clearly state the purpose of your email and grab the recipient’s attention. Make it short and impactful.

How long should my connection email be?

Your email should be brief and to the point. Aim for no more than 3-4 short paragraphs that contain your introduction, purpose, and a call-to-action.

Should I start with an introduction or get straight to the point?

It’s always best to start with a brief introduction that expresses who you are and why you are reaching out. However, be concise and get to the point quickly.

What should my call-to-action be?

Your call-to-action should be clear and specific. If you are requesting a meeting or call, suggest a specific date and time. If you are offering help, suggest a specific way you can provide value.

How do I personalize my connection email?

Research the recipient and customize your email to mention something that is relevant to their interests or business. This will show that you put in effort to get to know them and creates a connection.

What tone should I use in my connection email?

Your tone should be professional yet friendly. Avoid sounding too formal or overly casual, and try to establish a connection by being personable.

What should I avoid in my connection email?

Avoid using a generic template or sounding too salesy. Also, avoid using jargon or overly technical language that the recipient may not understand.

Stay connected with ease

And there you have it! A brief yet effective guide on how to write a connection email that strikes the right chord. By keeping things simple, genuine and to-the-point, you can lay the foundation for a-lasting relationship- both personal and professional. Remember, there’s no need to sound like a robot in your emails and it’s always a good idea to put yourself in the recipient’s shoes. Thanks for reading and be sure to stop by again for more practical tips to elevate your communication game. Happy connecting!