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The email had a reasonable ask: "We create seamless user journeys using analytics/AI. Can we meet?"
Yet I didn't respond.
Why? Bcoz how then do I respond to several other similar daily requests?
So here's a thread on what compels decision makers to read or ignore mails (1/n)
Yet I didn't respond.
Why? Bcoz how then do I respond to several other similar daily requests?
So here's a thread on what compels decision makers to read or ignore mails (1/n)
'Jargon fatigue' - possible the number one reason for ignoring mails. The same buzzwords (AI/ML/Analytics etc.) get spouted by numerous companies. Decision makers get so weary, these buzzwords act like anaesthesia for them. Let's minimise jargon. (2/n)
'State of the world' statements- It's tempting to start with a 'we live in unprecedented times' type of statement to set the tone. But the sheer repetition of such phrases makes the readers' eyes impatiently glaze over. Let's avoid platitudes. (3/n)
'Inside out' emails don't work- "We would like a meeting because we specialise in..." is an inside-out statement. "We would like a meeting"(is 'your' need), "we specialise in"(is 'your' self description). Would a time starved client care?
So what works? Some pointers below (4/n)
So what works? Some pointers below (4/n)
'Problem specificity' - Be very specific about the problem you can solve for the client, mentioning the client's products to show you did your homework. It's not difficult to figure out the client's needs through industry forums, reports and by talking to relevant people. (5/n)
'Solution uniqueness' - What's unique about your solution? AI/Automation is not unique, it's what you do with such technologies that's unique! State your uniqueness clearly right in the beginning along with the results you have delivered or can deliver. (6/n)
'Throw names' - Draw attention to other known companies, pref. industry peers, that have benefited from your solution. But if you are a start-up & don't have testimonials, it's not the end of the world. An eager startup is better than a complacent Fortune 500 company! (7/n)
Detailed next steps - Instead of asking, 'Can we have a meeting?' ask 'Can we have a 30 minute video call in Feb 2nd wk' along with a back up option. This way the client has to make fewer decisions making it easier for them to respond to you. Good luck! (n/n)
