The Cold Email That Works: Networking Templates

Cold emails are one of the most effective networking tools for law students. The problem is that most cold emails are terrible. They are too long, too vague, and ask for too much. Here is how to write ones that actually get responses.

The formula

Every effective networking email has four parts:

1. Who you are (one sentence)
2. Why you are writing to them specifically (one sentence)
3. What you are asking for (one sentence)
4. A gracious close (one sentence)

That is it. Four sentences. Maybe five if you need a brief additional detail. The entire email should fit on a phone screen without scrolling.

Template 1: Alumni outreach

Subject: Columbia 2L interested in your restructuring practice

Hi [Name],

I am a 2L at Columbia and saw that you are a [school] alum practicing in [Firm]'s restructuring group. I am very interested in restructuring and would love to hear about your experience at the firm. Would you have 15 minutes for a phone call in the next couple of weeks?

Thank you for your time.

[Your name]

Template 2: Event follow-up

Subject: Great meeting you at the [School] reception

Hi [Name],

It was great speaking with you at the [firm] reception last Thursday. I really appreciated your perspective on the white-collar practice. I would love to continue the conversation if you have time for a brief call.

Thank you again for your time.

[Your name]

Template 3: Practice area interest

Subject: Georgetown 2L interested in your PE fund formation work

Hi [Name],

I am a 2L at Georgetown focusing on transactional work and have been researching [Firm]'s private equity practice. Your recent work on [specific deal or matter, if publicly known] is exactly the type of work I hope to do. Would you be open to a brief call to share your perspective on the practice?

Thank you.

[Your name]

What makes these work

They are short. Attorneys are busy. Respect their time.

They are specific. Each email references something concrete about the recipient. Generic emails get deleted.

The ask is small. A 15-minute phone call is easy to say yes to. Asking someone to review your resume, critique your writing sample, or recommend you for a position is too much for a first contact.

They are professional. No emojis, no exclamation points, no overly casual language.

What to avoid

• Emails longer than one paragraph
• Attaching your resume without being asked
• Asking for a job directly
• Mass emails with no personalization
• Following up more than once if someone does not respond

After the call

Send a thank-you email within 24 hours. Keep it brief. Reference something specific from the conversation. Then stay in touch periodically, not frequently, with relevant updates about your career.

Good networking builds relationships over time. Research your target firms on the firm directory, identify the people you want to connect with, and reach out with purpose.