Networking Email Templates — 6 Professional Outreach Emails

Subject: Would love 15 min of your time — [your field] question

Hi [Name],

I'm [Your Name], currently [your situation — student, career changer, new to industry]. I've been following your work at [Company] and your path from [X] to [Y] really resonates.

Would you be open to a 15-minute chat about [specific topic]? I have 2-3 specific questions — not looking for a job referral, just genuine advice.

Happy to work around your schedule. Coffee or Zoom, whatever's easiest.

[Your Name]

Subject: [Mutual connection] suggested I reach out

Hi [Name],

[Mutual connection] mentioned you'd be a great person to talk to about [topic]. We were chatting about [context] and your name came up.

I'm [brief intro — 1 sentence]. Would love to connect and hear your perspective on [specific area].

No rush — whenever works for you.

[Your Name]

Subject: Long time! Catching up

Hi [Name],

It's been a while since [where you last connected — conference, old job, school]. I saw your recent [post/achievement/new role] — congrats!

Quick update on my end: [1-2 sentences about what you've been up to].

Would love to grab coffee sometime and catch up properly. Are you free [suggest timeframe]?

[Your Name]

Subject: Great meeting you at [Event]

Hi [Name],

Really enjoyed our conversation at [Event] about [specific topic you discussed]. Your point about [specific thing they said] stuck with me.

I wanted to follow up on [something you discussed — resource, introduction, idea]. [Include link/attachment if relevant.]

Let's stay in touch. Would love to continue the conversation.

[Your Name]

Subject: Thank you! Your advice on [topic] was exactly what I needed

Hi [Name],

Thank you so much for taking the time today. Your advice about [specific insight] was incredibly helpful.

I'm going to [specific action you'll take based on their advice]. I'll keep you posted on how it goes.

If there's ever anything I can do to return the favor, don't hesitate to ask.

[Your Name]

Subject: Thought of you — [specific resource/opportunity]

Hi [Name],

I came across [article/tool/event/opportunity] and immediately thought of you because of your work in [their area].

[Link or brief description.]

No ask here — just wanted to share something I thought you'd find valuable. Hope you're doing well!

[Your Name]