Networking can be a powerful tool for career growth and building connections. Asking for a networking meeting via email can feel daunting, but with the right approach, you can make a great impression. Here are three examples that can help you craft your own request.
You want to reconnect with a former colleague who has moved into a role that interests you. This is a friendly approach to rekindle your connection and gain insights about their new position.
Hi [Colleague’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well! I noticed your recent transition to [Current Company/Position] and I’m genuinely excited for you. Your expertise in [specific area] has always inspired me, and I would love to catch up and learn more about your experiences.
Would you be open to a brief virtual coffee chat? I’d appreciate any insights you could share about your journey and the current trends in our field. I’m available [insert a couple of time slots], but I’m happy to work around your schedule too.
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Best,
[Your Name]
[Your LinkedIn Profile]
[Your Contact Information]
Feel free to adjust the tone based on your relationship with the colleague. If you were close, you can be more casual, while a more formal tone may be appropriate for distant colleagues.
You want to reach out to a respected figure in your industry whose work you admire. This email should be respectful and concise, highlighting your interest in their insights.
Subject: Request for a Brief Meeting
Dear [Thought Leader’s Name],
My name is [Your Name], and I’m currently [your current position or role] at [Your Company]. I have been following your work on [specific topic or publication], and I deeply admire your insights into [specific subject].
I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to speak with you for about 20 minutes. I’m eager to learn more about your perspective on [specific topic] and how it relates to [your interests or career goals].
Could we schedule a time to connect? I’m available [suggest a couple of times], but I’m flexible and can adjust to your convenience.
Thank you for considering my request. I hope to hear from you soon!
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your LinkedIn Profile]
[Your Contact Information]
Make sure to personalize your request by mentioning specific work of theirs that you admire. This shows genuine interest and diligence on your part.
After attending a conference, you want to follow up with someone you spoke to briefly but found intriguing. This email should reference your previous conversation to jog their memory.
Subject: Great to Meet You at [Conference Name]
Hi [Name],
I hope you’re doing well! I really enjoyed our brief conversation at [Conference Name] about [specific topic you discussed]. It got me thinking about [related topic], and I would love to continue our discussion.
Would you be open to a 30-minute chat sometime in the next couple of weeks? I’m eager to hear more about your insights and share some of my experiences as well. I’m available [provide a few options], but I’m flexible.
Thanks for considering it, and I look forward to reconnecting!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your LinkedIn Profile]
[Your Contact Information]
Mentioning a specific discussion point helps personalize your email and reinforces your connection. Adjust your availability based on your schedule.
These examples of how to ask for a networking meeting via email show the importance of context and personalization. Tailor your request for the best results, and remember, a warm and genuine approach goes a long way!