The Cold Intro That Converts

Most intros die in the first sentence. Here is the structure that works.

The 5-line template

1. Who you are — one line, with proof.
2. Why them — something specific they've done, not a flattery generality.
3. The ask — small, time-boxed, easy to say yes to.
4. The why-now — a real reason this week.
5. The out — make it easy to decline without guilt.

Example

Hi Maya — I'm Ada, building a payroll tool for African SMBs (now at $4K MRR). I loved your talk on hiring your first ten. Could I borrow 20 minutes next week to ask how you sequenced your first three roles? Totally fine if not.

Three mistakes to avoid

• No proof. "I'm building something in fintech" tells them nothing.
• Open-ended ask. "Pick your brain" = instant no.
• No deadline. Without a window, your email rots in the inbox.

Keep it short. Respect their time. Reply rates go up.