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Networking Email Template

TL;DR

A networking email should be 60-100 words, offer value (or curiosity) rather than asking for it, reference a specific connection point, and end with a low-commitment ask — often just a reply, not a meeting. The best networking emails avoid "pick your brain" language and give the recipient a concrete reason to engage.

When to use this template

Use a networking email when reconnecting with old colleagues, reaching out to new contacts at industry events, asking for introductions, or exploring career moves. The goal is to build genuine professional relationships, not transactional asks.

Networking email templates

Scenario 1

Reconnecting with an old colleague

Subject

Been a while — [shared memory or reference]

Body

Hi [First Name],

It's been a while — last we talked was [rough context, e.g., "when we were both at [Company]"]. I was thinking about that project we did on [topic] recently, which is what prompted this email.

Happy to hear you're now at [current company]. Noticed you [something specific from their LinkedIn or recent work]. That's great to see.

No agenda — just wanted to reconnect. If you ever want to grab coffee or a quick call, I'd enjoy catching up.

Best,
[Your name]

Scenario 2

Asking for a referral to someone in their network

Subject

Quick ask — intro to someone in your network?

Body

Hi [First Name],

I'm exploring [specific thing — a new role, a partnership, a research question] and I noticed you're connected to [specific person] at [company].

If it's not a lift, would you be open to a brief intro? Context I can share: [one-sentence why you want to meet them]. Happy to put together a forwardable blurb so you don't have to write one from scratch.

Totally understand if the connection is too loose or it's not the right time. No pressure.

Thanks either way,
[Your name]

Scenario 3

After meeting at an event

Subject

Great to meet you at [event name]

Body

Hi [First Name],

Great to meet you at [event] yesterday. Our conversation about [specific topic you discussed] stuck with me — especially your point about [specific idea they mentioned].

I'd love to stay in touch. [Optional: add a relevant resource — article, tool, intro — that ties to what you discussed].

If you're ever up for a 20-minute follow-up conversation, I'd enjoy it. Otherwise, see you at the next [event / industry gathering].

Best,
[Your name]
[LinkedIn]

Tips for writing a better networking email

  • 1Give before you take. If you're reconnecting, share something useful (article, intro, resource) rather than leading with an ask.
  • 2Never say "pick your brain." It's a cliché that signals you want a free consult.
  • 3Reference something specific — a project, a mutual connection, a post they wrote. Specificity separates you from blast emails.
  • 4Keep the ask low-commitment. "Reply if interested" works better than "let's schedule a 1-hour call".
  • 5For forwardable intros, write the blurb yourself. Make it effortless for the connector.

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Frequently asked questions

Is it OK to email someone cold for networking purposes?

Yes — cold networking is legitimate and works, especially when you're specific about why. What doesn't work is generic "I'd love to pick your brain" emails. Respect their time, have a specific question or reason, and keep it short.

How do I reconnect with someone I haven't spoken to in years?

Acknowledge the gap, reference a shared memory or project, explain briefly why now, and don't ask for anything in the first message. A simple reconnection email with no ask is warmer and gets more replies than one that opens with a request.

Should I follow up if someone doesn't reply to a networking email?

One follow-up after 1-2 weeks is fine. More than one risks pestering. If they still don't reply, move on — timing or priorities might just be off.

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