Best Success Stories of Cold Emailing or LinkedIn Outreach?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some success stories and tips for cold emailing and LinkedIn outreach:

Success Stories:

1. Non-Target to Multiple BB/MM SA Offers:

   • Story: A user shared their experience of cold emailing many Senior Associates and Junior VPs. Despite having very good emails, they only received about a 40% response rate. However, these responses led to informational interviews, which eventually led to more interviews and finally a first-round phone interview. At one bulge bracket (BB) bank, they had five rounds of informational interviews before being officially considered for a first-round interview.
   • Key Takeaway: Persistence and leveraging each response to build further connections can lead to success.

2. Boutique Consulting Firm Cold Calling:

   • Story: Another user worked at a boutique consulting firm where cold calling was a significant part of their strategy. They often called lower-level employees, academics, consultants, or small business owners to get a few minutes of their time to explore industry trends. Although it wasn't enjoyable, it was necessary due to budget constraints.
   • Key Takeaway: Cold calling can be effective, especially when budget constraints limit other networking options.

Tips for Making a Strong First Impression:

1. Follow Up After Initial Meeting:

   • Build a genuine relationship by taking contacts out for drinks or lunch and getting to know them as people. Send them emails with articles they might be interested in and find common interests to connect over.

2. Effective Networking Steps:

   • Communicate your story and reasoning for investment banking (IB) clearly. Reflect on 4-6 memorable experiences that have shaped your character and be ready to share these in a compelling manner.

3. Tailor Your Story:

   • Adjust your story based on your audience. For example, if you find someone who grew up in the same place as you, start your story with that to establish a connection.

4. Cold Emailing Guide:

   • Contact people with a similar background, not just alumni. Think about what defines you on a superficial level and use that to find common ground.

5. Multi-Purpose Networking:

   • When emailing, introduce yourself and express your interest in learning about the recipient's career path and seeking their advice.

6. Use Tools for Follow-Up:

   • Use tools like Yesware to track your emails and know the best times to follow up without appearing desperate or uninterested.

Example Cold Email Template:

• Introduction: "My name is _______ and I currently work in commercial real estate. I am interested in talking to you about how you got to the position of ______ and your advice on what I should be doing."

Additional Resources:

• Networking Guide: For more detailed advice, check out the WSO Networking Guide.

By following these tips and learning from these success stories, you can improve your chances of making a strong first impression through cold emailing and LinkedIn outreach. Good luck!

Sources: The Best Networking, Cold Calling and Cold Emailing Posts on WSO, The Best Networking, Cold Calling and Cold Emailing Posts on WSO, Cold Emailing/LinkedIn Messaging, This is what your LinkedIn cold outreach message should entail, Cold email networking while employed?