Follow this simple template to write emails that actually get opened, read and replied to!
A study conducted by the Radicati Group in 2015, illustrated that the average business user sends and receives an average of 122 emails per day, a number that is expected to increase to 126 messages by the end of 2019. As no surprise, the average email only has a 20% open rate and a shockingly low response rate of only 6%. This means that for every 100 emails you send, only 20% (20 emails) are being opened and of those 20 emails, only 6% (1 email) are being replied to. That works out to 1 email reply for every 100 emails sent, so essentially a response rate of 1.2%.
So how do you compose an email that will fall into that 1.2% category? The answer is quite simple. Keep it short and to the point. Follow this simple template.
The Breakdown:
Subject Line:
This is the most important line in your email since most emails are deleted without opening based on the subject line alone. Make it as succinct and relevant as possible to the reader.
For example: “Referral by [INSERT NAME HERE] Re: [INSERT OPPORTUNITY HERE]”
The Opener:
In this section, in 1-2 sentences maximum, address the following:
- Who are you?
- How did you get this email address?
- What do you want?
For Example: “Dear [ADDRESSEE], My name is [INSERT NAME HERE] and a mutual acquaintance of ours gave me your contact information. [INSERT REFERRAL NAME HERE] recommended I contact you regarding [INSERT OPPORTUNITY HERE].”
The summary:
In 1-2 sentences (3 maximum), outline the purpose of your email. This can be a brief description of the business opportunity you wish to discuss. Do NOT be tempted to get into your sales pitch here! Simply address the following:
- What do you want to talk about?
- Why should they talk to you?
Conclusion:
Once again, limit this to ideally 1 sentence:
- Call to action (i.e. request a meeting)
- How you can best be reached
I have found this approach to be successful over 90% of the time regardless of whom I am contacting (CEO’s, lower-level management, clients etc.). So, whether you are struggling with a low reply rate or you simply want to improve your existing reply rate, try this formula and I’m certain that you will see results. If you require more assistance, please feel free to contact me for personalized sales coaching services.
Happy Sales my friends!
