Cold mail - Linkedin or Email?

Question

Hi everyone, do you think it would be better to use Linkedin to send a cold message, or it's better to use corporate email address?

Would be great to hear about the experience on both sides (sending or receiving cold emails).

Thanks!

Answer 1

Hi,

I don't think there is a definite answer of which one is better. When I was in BCG I received cold mails from both sources. While email seems more formal and professional, to be honest, personally I prefer people reaching out to me over LinkedIn. Reason is simple - as a project leader I could receive more than 50 emails everyday, so for cold email, sorry that's low priority in my inbox and can quickly get buried. By the time I realised I have that cold email, it could be 2 weeks out...I don't have that many conversations in my LinkedIn inbox, so the message would stay on the 1st page, and LinkedIn also send me reminders to my personal inbox.

At the end of day, it boils down to the personal preference of the person you are reaching out to. If you don't want to miss out any chance, just send both, and see via which channel the person replies and then proceed from there.

Best,

Emily

Answer 2

Hi,

I would not recommend cold e-mailing people you don't know. You should have at least some touchpoint:

Thank you note after the lecture at your university
Friends referral
Common background (University)
Etc

Best

Answer 3

Hi Anonymous,

I would definitely recommend emails over LinkedIn - an email is more personal and converts better. Be sure to use a proper structure for your approach if you are looking for a referral – you can find more about that at the following link:

https://www.preplounge.com/en/consulting-forum/hey-everyonehope-all-is-well-3176

Best,

Francesco

Answer 4

Definitely email

Answer 5

Hello,

Corporate email seems both more professional and personal than linkedin message. At the end of the day Linkedin is a social, while the email is a personal contact that establish a direct line with the other person.

Hope it helps,
Luca

Answer 6

Hi,

For application purposes I recommend using the working email. It's the only tool used daily by HR and consultants,

Best,

Antonello

Answer 7

Hello!

If you know the corporate mail, perfect! If not, it´s easy to guess it once you figure out the rule (e.g., normally it´s name _ surname @ firm.com, with little variations). If not, LinkedIn should work also.

Hope it helps!

Cheers,

Clara

Answer 8

Hi A,

I would definitely recommend e-mail. But I also agree with Vlad that by preparing your e-mail use some common background or referral event/ situation.

Best,

André