So, you’ve got someone you want to connect with but feel clueless about starting a conversation? Maybe you want to get advice on a project, raise funds for your startup, approach a potential client, or just welcome a new teammate. 

Breaking the ice doesn’t have to be so complicated! Since closed mouths don’t get fed, putting yourself out there is the first step to accomplishing any of these goals. 

How? Glad you asked!

The key is knowing how to craft an impressive introduction email. As most of our interactions in the professional world happen online, sending that introduction email can be all you need to do to unlock some very rewarding doors. 

We've put together a list of 13 foolproof introduction email templates for every use-case. Think of them as a Swiss Army knife for your email game— versatile, practical, and ready for any situation.

Sending that first email can be nerve-wracking, but with these templates, you'll be soaring through your inbox in no time!

What is the purpose of an introduction email?

An introduction email is your chance to make a lasting impact and set the tone for a relationship. Whether you're trying to network, close a deal, or land your dream job, an effective introduction email can help you advance in your career in myriad ways.

Sending an introduction email shows initiative, confidence, and a willingness to put yourself out there. And, let's be real, it's often the only way to make that initial connection and start something amazing!

What makes for a good introduction email?

Want your introduction email to stand out from the hundreds of boring and bland pitches crowding your recipient’s inbox?

Here are some unconventional insider tips from cold email experts at OSlash on what to include in an introduction email:

1. Use humor: Humor can be a great way to break the ice and make a positive impression. A well-placed joke or pun can show that you're friendly, approachable, and creative.

2. Be authentic: Don't be afraid to be yourself and let your personality shine through. People are more likely to connect with someone who is genuine and relatable.

3. Show your passion: If you're reaching out to someone in a field that you're passionate about, let that enthusiasm show! Sharing your love for a topic can be contagious and can help establish a connection.

4. Ask for advice: The Ben Franklin effect in Psychology proposes that people like someone more after doing a favor for them. They also like feeling knowledgeable and helpful as it helps them build a positive self-image. So, go ahead and ask for advice or feedback in your introduction email. It can be a great way to start a conversation and build a relationship. 

5. Be concise: While it's important to be engaging and personable, you also don't want to overwhelm the recipient with a long and rambling email. Be concise, so they can quickly understand your purpose for reaching out.

6. Add visual breaks: No one wants to peruse through walls of text. Adding enough white space and infusing your email with clutter-breaking images, videos, GIFs, or links makes it more visually appealing and engaging for your prospects.

Below you’ll find some additional good practices to craft winning introduction emails.

Introduction email etiquette and best practices to follow for higher opening and response rates

The ultimate goal of your introduction email? To pique the reader’s interest enough for them to notice you. 

Here are some best practices that can take you a step closer to achieving this:

1. Write a scroll-stopping subject line: Aim to keep your subject lines crisp, personalized with the name of the reader, and clickable without being too clickbaity. It’s your one shot at grabbing their scattered attention. Keeping it short (under 50-60 characters helps too).

2. Customize the opening line for your reader: This is important for them to continue reading your email copy. If they find the opening line irrelevant, they will dismiss the rest of the email without second thoughts.

3. Clarify your reason for reaching out: It’s always a great idea to talk about how you know the recipient and mention why you want to connect with them as succinctly as possible. This can increase your chances of getting a response over sending a random and unsolicited request.

4. Showcase the value you bring: Reciprocity is the keystone of establishing professional relationships that last. If you can help someone out in return for their time, skills, advice etc., they will be more inclined to offer their assistance too.

5. Focus on building a relationship: No one likes to be sold to, right off the bat. Focus on building a relationship first—be curious about the recipient, ask them questions, appreciate their skills/good qualities, and show interest in what they have to offer, before pitching yourself or your business. 

6. Include a call-to-action, if needed: When you send an introduction email, you want the reader to respond, right? Include a relevant CTA (like booking a meeting, signing up for a newsletter, trying out a product etc.) to drive your reader to the action you want them to take. 

7. Thank the recipient for their time: Courtesy and politeness will always remain in vogue at work. A simple thank you goes a long way. This is why you’ll see even big corporations sending their customers thank you emails post a purchase. 

8. Make sure to follow up: The money is in the follow-ups! Don’t give up before you’ve followed up at least 6-7 times, with a follow-up every 2-3 days. I’ve personally tried this and been surprised by how well it works!

9. Use an email signature: It lends added credibility to your email. Make sure to include your name, role, website/social media handles, and contact information in the signature.

10. Automate your introduction emails using templates/snippets: If you send a lot of introduction emails on the daily, templating and automating them with a writing assistant or text expander can end up saving you a lot of time wasted on repetitive typing and copy-pasting. (There’s a detailed breakdown on how to do this at the end of this article.)

Below you’ll find templates for subject lines as well as email copy to get you started with writing an introduction email that people respond to. 

Examples of great introduction email subject lines

Here are 10 catchy and effective subject lines for your introduction email:

[Mutual Connection] said we should connect!

Hi from [Your Name], [Their Name]

[Their Name], proposal for [Collaboration] from [Your Name, Your Company Name]

Let's talk [Shared Interest/Topic], [Their Name]—I'll start!

[Their Name], reaching out for [Purpose]!

Can we be [Industry/Interest] pals?

Hello from [Your Name]—Let's connect!

A quick hi from a [Shared Interest] fan

From one [Industry/Interest] fan to another

A friendly hello from a fellow [Industry/Interest] enthusiast

These subject lines are warm and friendly. They are simple, short, and clearly convey the intention of the sender to connect with the recipient. And they set the tone for your introduction email perfectly. 

13 introduction email samples and templates that you can’t go wrong with in 2023

We’ve culled together a list of 13 introduction email samples and templates that will help you make a positive first impression without spending hours worrying about it. 

From introducing yourself at the workplace to connecting two contacts, these templates cover the entire gamut of business situations where introduction emails can come in handy.

Read on!

1. Business introduction email templates

Want to partner-up with rockstar professionals and businesses to knock your competition right out of the park? These introduction email templates will make reaching out to potential partners less daunting. 

a. Introduction email template for connecting two contacts

Goal: You want to connect two of your contacts because they might be able to help each other.

Why it works: This email template helps you highlight the strengths and experience of each contact, emphasize the potential benefits of connecting, and can be the basis of starting a new relationship.

Subject: [Name 1] meet [Name 2]!

Hi [Name 1],

I wanted to take a moment to introduce you to [Name 2], a highly accomplished [Position] in [Industry/Company]. 

[Name 2] has a wealth of experience in [Industry/Field] and has helped numerous businesses grow and thrive. 

[Name 2], meet [Name 1]. [Name 1] is a highly respected [Position] at [Company] and has a deep knowledge of the [Industry/Field]. It’s evident you both have a lot in common and could benefit from knowing each other.

I'll let you two take it from here.

P.S. Don’t forget to hit me up too, when you set up a meeting :D

Happy connecting!
[Your Name]

b. Introduction email template for requesting expertise

Goal: You want to leverage the expertise of the message recipient for a project.

Why it works: This email template is polite, friendly, and respectful of the recipient's time and expertise. By expressing a genuine interest in learning from them and demonstrating how you can help them in return, you can make a strong case for why they should consider helping you. 

Subject: Stellar insights on [Topic], [Name]! Let’s connect?

Hello [Name],

I hope this email finds you well. 

Your [profile on LinkedIn] is the reason I couldn’t resist reaching out. The list of your accomplishments in [Industry/Field], especially your expertise in [specific area of expertise], is mighty impressive!

I’m currently working on a project that involves [brief description of the project], and I think you’d be the best person to help me elevate it to the next level. Would you be open to [sharing some of your expertise/offering advice/collaborating] with me?

I would love to schedule a quick call to share more details and hear your thoughts. You can book a quick 10-min call here as per your convenience.

Thank you for your time! I look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

2. Sales introduction email templates

These email introduction templates are golden for generating leads, building brand awareness, and qualifying prospects who have been referred to you, submitted a form on your website, or clicked on your digital ads.

And here's the deal: we know that just any old email won't cut it. You've got to grab their attention right off the bat. So, we're talking killer subject lines, identifying pain points, and placing them right in the sales funnel.

Let's get to it!

a. Cold sales introduction email templates

Goal: You want to connect with someone you’ve never interacted with before.

Why it works: It shifts the focus from you to how you can be of service to them, which is what everyone really is interested in, right?

Subject: [Name], the best way to address [pain point]?

Hi [Name],

I was browsing through [source platform] when I came across [prospect’s company name]. I must say you’re doing an amazing job at [solving your customers’ pain points].

Over the last six months, we’ve helped dozens of companies like yours [address pain point] at 30% of the usual cost. Our clients, including [name 2-3 similar, preferably recognizable companies], have benefitted from [list and quantify core benefits]. And you could too!

If you wish to [address pain point], I’d be happy to schedule a 5-min phone call to discuss this in detail. Does [date and time 1] or [date and time 2] work for you?

Looking forward!

Thanks for your time. 
[Your Name]

Recommended reading: 11 cold email templates that will get you more leads instantly

b. Website-triggered introduction email template

Goal: To leverage the interaction of a prospect with your website/communications for introducing yourself.

Why it works: This email template can be automated and sent to multiple prospects who are interested in your offering. It builds on the initial touchpoint and moves the conversation forward efficiently. 

Subject Line: You’re off to a great start, [Name]. What’s next?

Dear [Name],

Thank you for your interest in [product/service]. By signing up for our [blog/newsletter/demo], you’re already off to a great start!

Over the next couple of days you should expect [outline the next steps or details of next communications].

Here’s a [quick overview] of [product/service] and how it can help you get a step closer to [solving a specific problem].

If you’d like to chat more in person, you can choose a free slot on my calendar and we can hop on a quick call! 

I look forward to hearing from you.  

Regards,
[Your Name]

c. Introduction email template for inbound leads

Goal: You want to connect with (and convert) a prospect who reached out to you. 

Why it works: It shows a genuine interest in the lead and their needs, and encourages open communication.

Subject: Excited to connect with you, [Name]!

Hey [Name],

I'm thrilled to receive your inquiry about [Company/Product Name]!

My name is [Your Name] and I'm a [Your Position] at [Company Name]. I wanted to personally reach out and learn more about you and your business needs. 

What inspired you to reach out to us? Are there specific challenges you're trying to solve or goals you're trying to achieve? Do you have questions about [product/service] that I can address?

I’d be happy to discuss this on a quick 10-min phone call if you like. Please schedule one on my calendar as per your convenience. You could also reply to this email if that works better. 

Thank you so much for your interest in [Company Name]. Looking forward to connecting with you soon!

Best regards,
[Your Name]

d. Introduction email template for referred leads

Goal: You want to reach out to a prospect referred by a mutual connection.

Why it works: Basing the conversation on acknowledging your mutual connection makes your job easier by establishing trustworthiness and credibility. 

Subject: [Referral name] loves us & thought you might, too

Hey [Name],

I hope this email finds you well. 

I’m reaching out today because [Referral Name] hinted that we at [Company Name] might be a great fit for you.

We had the pleasure of working with [Referral Name] for [details of the project undertaken together] and helped them [highlight key results from the collaboration/partnership]. 

We’d love to do the same for [company name]. I’d love to have a call with you this week to understand your requirements better.

I am available in the following time slots:

[slot 1 with date and time]
[slot 2 with date and time]

Let me know if any of these work for you or if you’ve an alternative in mind!

Excited to hop on to this partnership!

Best regards,
[Your Name]

e. Follow-up introduction email template

Goal: You want to reconnect with a contact you met at an event or elsewhere, in-person.

Why it works: This email template builds on the personal connection with the recipient by referencing the conversation that took place when you met them. It acts as a refresher and provides an opportunity to deepen the bond by working together. 

Subject: It was great meeting you at [event name]!

Hi [Name],

Meeting you at [event name] was amazing! I really enjoyed our conversation and thought it might be a great idea to stay in touch.

I remember you hinting that you were looking for [solution to a business pain point]. I might be able to help you out since [your company] is always experimenting with [topic/pain point mentioned] and looking for new ways to help businesses like yours

If this is something you’d like to explore, I’d love to chat further.

[Include a call-to-action to schedule a meeting or call]. 

Looking forward to connecting with you once more!

Best regards,
[Your Name]

3. Email introduction templates for customers and accounts

Now, let's talk about sending an intro email to your clients. Wait, don’t they already know you if they’re doing business with you?

Mostly, yes. But, what about the times when account reps change, when old team members leave and new ones join in their place, or when you’re unveiling a new product or service that you think will make them drool with excitement?

The point is, clients won’t be in the loop about everything just because they have an existing relationship with you. This is when you can use the following introduction email templates.

a. Cold introduction to newly assigned client

Goal: Introducing yourself to a client after they’ve been assigned to you

Why it works: By expressing enthusiasm and a commitment to exceptional service, you can establish a positive tone and set the stage for a successful working relationship.

Subject: Hi from your [Role], [Client Name]!

Hello [Client Name],

I wanted to take a moment to introduce myself and express how excited I am to be working with you. My name is [Your Name], and I've just been assigned as your [Role] here at [Company Name]. I'm looking forward to getting to know you, learning about your business, and providing you with exceptional service.

This means that from now on, I'm always available to answer any questions you may have or address any concerns that arise. Please don't hesitate to reach out to me!

I’d also love to get on a call with you to discuss [your current situation, goals, and any challenges you may be facing]. I'm confident that we’ll make a great team together.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to work with you, and I look forward to getting started.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

b. Introduction to a new point-of-contact

Goal: Introducing a customer to their new account rep 

Why it works: This email template highlights the experience and qualifications of the new rep to build the customer’s trust and confidence in their ability to provide exceptional service.

Subject: Meet your new [Role], [Client Name]!

Hello [Client Name],

I hope this email finds you doing well. I'm reaching out to introduce our new point of contact for your account at [Company Name]. [New Point-of-Contact Name] has joined our team and will be taking over from [Previous Point-of-Contact Name] as the primary contact for your account.

I’ve worked with [New Point-of-Contact Name] closely over the last week to ensure the smoothest possible transition for you. Here’s a fun fact: They’re [insert common interest] like you! I’m sure you’ll hit it off instantly!

They also have extensive experience in [relevant industry or field], and I'm confident that they will provide you with exceptional service, as you’ve come to expect at [Company Name]. 

In the coming days, [New Point-of-Contact Name] will reach out to schedule an introductory call with you. If you have any questions or concerns in the meantime, please don't hesitate to reach out to me or [New Point-of-Contact Name].

Thanks for your time!
Best regards,
[Your Name]

c. New product/service/brand introduction email template

Goal: Introducing ​​a new product or service to a customer.

Why it works: By presenting the product or service as a valuable addition to the client's business, this email template can help generate interest and build excitement around the new offering.

Subject: Introducing [New Product/Service/Brand] - [Company Name]

Hello [Client Name],

I hope this email finds you doing well. I'm excited to announce the launch of our new [Product/Service/Brand] - [New Product/Service/Brand Name]! [Briefly describe the product/service/brand and its key benefits].

We believe that [New Product/Service/Brand Name] has the potential to be a game-changer for your business, and we're excited to offer it to you as a valued client. [Include any additional information/social proof on how this will benefit the client or how this will address their needs].

If you're interested in learning more about [New Product/Service/Brand Name], we'd be happy to schedule a call with youl. [Include a call to action for the client to take such as scheduling a call to discuss it further or pointing to a website for more information].

Thank you for your time, and we look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

4. Team introduction email templates

a. Professional self introduction email templates

Goal: To introduce yourself to your team/company 

Why it works: Offering assistance and expressing interest in getting to know each of your colleagues on a personal level can also help build relationships and establish yourself as a valuable member of the team.

Subject: Introduction and Greetings from [Your Name]

Hello everyone,

I wanted to take a moment to introduce myself as the newest member of your team at [Company Name]. My name is [Your Name], and I'm excited to be joining as [Your Position].

A little about me: [Provide a brief introduction to your background and experience relevant to the job position, such as your previous work experiences and education]. I'm looking forward to working with all of you to achieve our goals and deliver exceptional work to our clients.

If you have any questions or have great first-day advice, please feel free to reach out to me. I'm also interested in getting to know each of you on a personal level, so please don't hesitate to stop by and say hello!

Thank you for your time. Super excited to be a part of this team.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

b. New employee introduction/welcome email template

Goal: To introduce a new employee to the team

Why it works: Highlighting the achievements of a new employee in an introduction email is a great way to help them make a good first impression as well as extend a warm welcome to them. 

Subject: Welcome [New Employee Name] to the [Company Name] team!

Hey there, [Team]!

I'm beyond excited to introduce you to the newest member of our team, [New Employee Name]! They're joining us as [Position/Job Title], and I have to say, we hit the jackpot with this one.

[New Employee Name] brings a ton of [relevant experience/background], and we're thrilled to have them join our crew. I think they're going to fit in perfectly with our team culture, and I can't wait for you all to get to know them better.

Please join me in giving [New Employee Name] a warm welcome to the team! We're lucky to have them.

Cheers,
[Your Name]

Recommended reading: 21 message templates to welcome new employees to the team

Congratulations, you now have an arsenal of foolproof email introduction templates for all your business needs. Whether you're introducing a new employee, reaching out to potential customers, or connecting with new partners, these templates will help you make a lasting impression and win new business. Remember, the key to a successful introduction email is to be friendly, personalized, and engaging. Use these templates as a starting point and tweak them to fit your unique voice and style. 

My last tip to go forth and conquer that inbox? Automating your introduction emails by letting a text expander do all the (repetitive) work for you!

Auto-write your introduction emails in a snap with OSlash text expander

A text expander like OSlash can serve as an indispensable tool when you want to save time and effort on introduction emails.

Instead of having to type the text of your entire email from scratch, all you’ve to do with a text expander at your disposal, is type out a shortcut such as o/intro. As soon as you do that, the text expander will fetch the pre-saved text associated with the shortcut and auto-write (or insert) it for you wherever you want.

With OSlash, you can create and store text templates for your most common introduction emails, including all the essential ingredients like subject lines, opening lines, body copy, and closing lines. 

What’s more? It’s possible to leave placeholders aka variables for dynamic fields such as names of people, companies, products and services etc. while saving your templates with OSlash.

(Of course you can save all the templates from this article into OSlash and reduce your manual effort further, too!). This not only saves you time but also ensures consistency and accuracy in your messaging.

The best part? It’s ridiculously simple (and totally free) to get started.