Response time to cold emails?

Hi everyone, I just recently sent out some cold emails 2 days ago asking about any opportunities for summer internships at various firms, and only one person responded so far (and they said their firm didn't offer any opportunities). How long does it usually take to get a response? If no one responds after a couple of days, is it safe to say they don't intend to email back? After how long should I send a follow-up email? Thank you for your time!

2 Comments
 

Most won't respond at all. For context, I sent out 13 last year for a sophomore internship and I got 4 replies (1 no, 2 "we'll keep your resume on file", 1 interview which I turned into offer). If I hadn't gotten any good hits I would have sent more, but that's about the ratio I would say you should expect.

Protocol: Send a polite follow up one week after. If they don't respond for another week, email a different person at the firm. If person 2 doesn't respond for a week, send a polite follow up. If person 2 still doesn't respond, give up on that firm.

 
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