Most outreach emails go straight to trash. These templates actually work because they are short, personal, and helpful — not pitchy.
1. Broken Link Replacement
Subject: Quick fix for your [article title] page
Hi [Name],
I was reading your post on [topic] and noticed the link to [resource] is broken (returns a 404).
I wrote a similar resource at [URL] that might be a good replacement. No pressure either way.
Thanks for the great content either way!
[Your name]
2. Guest Post Pitch
Subject: Guest post idea for [blog name]
Hi [Name],
I read your post on [specific article]. Great take — especially the part about [specific detail].
I noticed you haven't covered [specific topic gap] yet. I'd love to write a guest post on it for your audience. Here's a quick outline:
- [Point 1]
- [Point 2]
- [Point 3]
Would this work for your editorial calendar?
[Your name]
3. Resource Page Link Insertion
Subject: Resource suggestion for your [page title]
Hi [Name],
Love your [resource page name] — it's genuinely useful. I wanted to suggest adding a resource that complements your existing list:
[Your resource title]: [URL] — [1-line description]
I think your readers would find it helpful alongside your current recommendations.
Thanks for considering!
[Your name]
4. HARO / Source Request Response
Subject: Expert input on [topic] for upcoming article
Hi [Name],
I'm writing an article about [topic] for [publication/website]. I came across your work on [specific achievement] and would love to include your perspective.
Quick question: [specific question related to their expertise]?
Happy to send over the draft for review before publishing. Happy to link back to your site as well.
Best,
[Your name]
5. Partnership / Cross-Promotion
Subject: Quick collaboration idea for [their product/company]
Hi [Name],
Love what you're building with [product]. I run [your product] — [1-line description].
Quick idea: I write an SEO-optimized post for your blog about [mutual topic], and you mention [your product] or share it with your audience.
Simple swap. Both of us get content + exposure.
Open to this?
[Your name]
The Golden Rules of Cold Outreach
- Keep it under 100 words. Busy people scan, not read.
- Show you've done your research. Mention something specific about their work.
- Make it about them, not you. "I can help your readers" beats "I need a backlink."
- One ask per email. Don't pitch multiple ideas at once.
- Follow up once. People are busy. A gentle reminder after 5-7 days doubles your reply rate.
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