I’ve been working on my outreach strategy, and I’m realizing that most templates and advice sound generic. Everyone’s message probably reads like: “Hey [Name], I really admire your work at [Firm] and I’m super interested in management consulting. Would love to chat about your experience.”
That’s not just boring — it’s forgettable. And worse, it doesn’t give the person any reason to actually respond or remember me.
I’ve been studying people who actually get responses, and there’s usually something different about their approach. Sometimes it’s a specific insight about the firm or the person’s work. Sometimes it’s a genuine connection or story. Sometimes it’s clarity about what you’re actually asking for.
But I’m not sure how to balance authenticity with strategy. If I’m too casual, I come across as unprofessional. If I’m too polished, I sound like a template. And I don’t want to spend hours crafting different messages — I need something that works but doesn’t feel robotic.
What makes someone actually open and read your full message? What gets them to respond? And how do you reference something specific without coming across as creepy or like you researched them too hard?
I had a contact who actually responded to my email, and looking back, it was because I mentioned something they’d specifically written about in a firm blog post — not in a fanboy way, but just briefly acknowledged their perspective. I said something like “I read your piece on how firms are handling remote team dynamics, and I’m curious how that’s changed your approach to client work.” That single reference made me stand out from the fifty people who just said they admired their career. She set up a call because I showed I’d actually done homework, not just blanket outreach.
Effective outreach pivots on personalization and clarity. Generic templates fail because they signal you’re mass-messaging. Instead, reference something specific that demonstrates you’ve researched them—a transaction they led, a public interview, a firm initiative they spearheaded. Keep it brief: two sentences maximum on why you’re reaching out. Then be explicit about your ask. Don’t ask for a generic mentoring conversation; instead, ask about a specific dimension of their work. For instance: “I’m exploring how firms structure analytical frameworks for client presentations. Would you be open to a 15-minute call to understand your approach?” This gives them an easy yes-or-no decision. Close with genuine humility: “I understand you’re busy, so even a brief conversation would be valuable.” The psychology works because you’ve reduced friction and decision-making burden. Aim for 80-120 words maximum. Quality research takes time, so limit personalized outreach to 5-8 high-priority targets weekly rather than mass-blasting.
most people overthink this. just dont send a template. one paragraph, say who you are, why youre reaching out, what you read from them that matters, and what u want. if its longer than 80 words theyve already closed it. and honestly half your messages wont get responses anyway so quantity helps, but make it count.
You’re going to nail this! Be yourself, show genuine interest, and keep it short and specific. People love responding to real, thoughtful messages. Keep going!
oh so u should actually reference their specific work? ive been doing generic stuff lol. thanx this helps me get smarter about it