---
name: cold-email-writer
description: Write personalized cold emails that earn replies - research-based hooks, clear relevance, low-friction asks. Use for outbound prospecting messages.
metadata: {"navin":{"emoji":"🧊","category":"sales"}}
---

# Cold Email Writer

A cold email earns a reply when it proves relevance in the first line and asks for something easy. Personalization is research, not {{first_name}}.

## When to use

- Outbound first-touch and sequence email copy
- LinkedIn note copy when asked (keep under platform limits)

## When not to use

- Warm intros where a full proposal is needed
- Spam blasts / purchased lists

## Anatomy (60-120 words)

1. **Subject** - 2-5 words, specific - no clickbait
2. **Line 1** - observation that proves homework (news, job post, project)
3. **Bridge** - observation → problem you solve (one sentence)
4. **Proof** - one relevant result with a real number you can defend
5. **Ask** - low friction question or 15-minute check - not a hard calendar CTA cold

## Personalization tiers

| Tier | Effort | Use for |
|------|--------|---------|
| Researched | 10-15 min | A-leads |
| Segmented | template + 2 min | B-leads |
| Generic blast | never | - |

## Workflow

1. Input: lead + `account-research` / `buying-signals` for A-leads.
2. Write 2 variants; cut to <120 words; check mobile (subject + first line).
3. Plan sequence with `outreach-sequencer`.
4. Human validation before send; track which hooks win.

## Rules

- Never fake familiarity or fake urgency.
- One CTA. No attachments on first touch. No "je me permets".
- Do not invent case-study metrics; use real ones or omit proof.
- Compliance: identify yourself/company; honor opt-out.

## Anti-patterns

- Long brochures
- "I help companies like yours" with no specificity
- Fake "saw you were looking at our site" intent lies