This script got me access to people that I never met before. Access = Opportunities.

How many times have you heard this before?

Your network is your net worth.

Sounds great but you'll also have to provide value first before asking for anything.

...well, how the heck do I provide value to high-profile people like CEOs and founders?

After countless attempts, I've cracked the code. And I'm here to fill you in.

Before I tell you how, you have to accept these truths first:

1. You have to sell yourself. Yes, it will be cringe but you have to do it. It only gets easier over time.

2. You will get rejected. Some will ignore you; some will say "STOP"; some will get annoyed. It's all part of the journey.

3. You have to remove your expectations. Don't expect anything from strangers. It will ruin your mood. Don't take anything personally.

The answer is Cold emails.

Despite low average open rates (23.9%) and even lower response rates (8.5%), cold emails remain the best tool for networking.

Why? Because a well-crafted email can defy those odds.

Here's the framework I use for all my cold emails - whether it be for creating job opportunities for myself or opening up conversations with people who run multiple multi-million dollar businesses.

It starts with the Subject Line.

• Be Specific but Intriguing: The goal is to get them to at least open your email. Something that entices them to read more. Keep it short and simple.
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  ​Example: Greetings from Mary (Your Future Friend)
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  Hopefully if you got this email from me, you'll ask yourself why would this Mary person be my future friend.

Many people forget this next one: Email Snippet (Preview Text).

• Think of this as an extension of the subject line. If your subject line is a hook, the snippet is the line drawing them in.
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  ​Example: People are burnt out. I've got an idea you'll want to hear.
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  I'm a huge fan of adding staggering stats. Or a combo of problem with a solution.

Now for the body of the email.

• Personalize It: Show you've done your homework. Mention something specific to them like a recent article they wrote.

• Introduce Yourself with a Twist: Be concise and impactful. Instead of listing your resume, tell a story that connects with them.

• Make It About Them: Frame your message in terms of how you can offer value to them, not what you seek to gain.

• Clear Call-To-Action: What do you want them to do after reading your email? Be clear but flexible.

• Give Them a Way Out: Leave the door open for a response, but don't pressure them. Thank them for their time and attention.
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  ​Example:
  ​
  By way of intro, my name is Mary Fung. I would typically introduce myself with my job title and work background but I feel like that would put me in a silo.
  ​
  I am a stubborn acocuntant who wants to save the dying profession. Like you, I believe the key lies in focusing on the people - transforming our work environments and culture from the inside out.
  ​
  However, I realized that many accountants merely survive rather than thrive in their careers - resulting in no change, just accepting things as is.
  ​
  I'm exploring ways to shift this mindset but sometimes wonder if it's a lost cause. I would love to poke your brain (you can poke mine too).
  ​
  What do you think?

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Cold emailing (when done right) is more than just a shot in the dark. It's a strategic tool for building meaningful connections. You're not just reaching out - you are engaging, providing value and opening doors to new opportunities.

Now it's your turn. Who will you cold email first? Take these tips, craft your cold email, and hit that send button.

Reminder: Your first email doesn't have to be perfect.

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Time to write,

Mary F