Cold outreach can seem daunting, like stepping into a room full of strangers and trying to strike up a meaningful conversation. But in today’s professional world, building relationships through cold outreach is often the key to unlocking opportunities, collaborations, and growth.
As someone who has worked in business development roles across companies like SpudBlocks, Tapbit, COPX DAO, and Coinverse, I’ve experienced firsthand how to transform cold outreach into lasting, warm connections. This is my story and the strategies that worked for me.
Understanding the Power of Cold Outreach
Cold outreach isn’t just about sending messages or emails to random people. It’s about starting a conversation with purpose, empathy, and authenticity. Whether you’re reaching out to a potential client, collaborator, or mentor, the goal is to build a relationship, not just close a deal.
I vividly remember one of my first experiences with cold outreach. As a Business Development Manager at Tapbit, I was tasked with onboarding partners for a new blockchain project. My target list was filled with people I’d never spoken to. At first, I struggled to get replies, let alone schedule calls. But with persistence and a strategic approach, those cold messages eventually turned into warm, productive relationships.
The Framework: From Stranger to Ally
Here’s the framework I’ve developed over years of refining my cold outreach strategy.
1. Research Intensively
Before reaching out, invest time in learning about the person or company.
- Understand Their Pain Points: For instance, when I reached out to a fintech startup as part of SpudBlocks’ customer support service initiative, I researched their customer reviews and noticed consistent complaints about delayed responses.
- Find Common Ground: I discovered that one of their team members was a speaker at an event I attended. That gave me a natural icebreaker to start the conversation.
2. Personalize Every Message
Avoid sending generic, cookie-cutter messages.
- Tailor Your Approach: Instead of starting with “I’d like to discuss business,” say something like, “I admire your work in [specific area] and noticed [specific detail]. I believe there’s potential synergy between us.”
- Use Their Name and Role: Mentioning their specific achievements adds credibility to your outreach.
3. Start With Value
Always offer value before asking for anything in return.
- Provide Insights: For example, during my time at COPX DAO, I reached out to a DeFi project and shared an analysis of how they could improve their token launch strategy based on market trends.
- Solve Problems: When connecting with prospects, offer solutions to their challenges upfront.
4. Follow Up Without Pressure
Persistence is key, but it should never feel like pestering.
- Set a Follow-Up Schedule: I usually follow up after 3-5 business days if there’s no response.
- Be Respectful: A follow-up message might say, “I know you’re busy, but I wanted to circle back to ensure you didn’t miss my earlier note.”
Stories of Transformation: My Personal Journey
Story 1: Winning Over a Key Partner at SpudBlocks
At SpudBlocks, we were looking to partner with a media agency to amplify our client’s projects. I reached out to their CEO on LinkedIn after noticing they recently expanded their operations in Asia. My initial message highlighted this expansion and congratulated them on their growth.
Instead of pitching right away, I asked for a 15-minute call to understand their goals in the region better. That small conversation turned into a partnership where they became a key media partner for our clients.
Story 2: Turning a Cold Email into a Warm Collaboration
While working with Coinverse, I sent a cold email to a well-known blockchain influencer, proposing a joint webinar to discuss market trends. Instead of starting with “We’d like to collaborate,” I opened with, “I’ve been following your insights on tokenomics, and I think our audience would greatly benefit from hearing your perspective.”
This personalized approach led to a series of webinars and workshops, significantly boosting our brand visibility.
Story 3: Building a Relationship with a Crypto Exchange
During my tenure at Tapbit, I had to approach a crypto exchange for a listing partnership. I researched their leadership team and noticed that their CTO often shared posts about blockchain security. In my outreach, I referenced one of his recent posts and shared my thoughts.
This opened the door to a conversation that eventually led to a partnership, where we collaboratively enhanced the security features of Tapbit’s offerings.
Practical Tips for Your Cold Outreach Success
1. Choose the Right Platform
Different platforms work for different audiences:
- LinkedIn: Best for professionals and B2B outreach.
- Email: Ideal for formal communication with organizations.
- Twitter or Telegram: Great for connecting with crypto and tech communities.
2. Be Clear and Concise
Respect the recipient’s time. Keep your message short, around 100-150 words.
- Clearly state your purpose.
- End with a specific call to action, like “Would you be open to a quick call next week?”
3. Leverage Mutual Connections
If you share a connection, mention them to add credibility.
4. Be Patient but Persistent
Understand that not everyone will respond immediately. Consistent, thoughtful follow-ups often yield results.
Turning Warm Connections Into Allies
Building a warm connection is just the start. To turn it into an enduring relationship:
- Stay in Touch: Periodically check in, even when you don’t need anything.
- Collaborate: Look for ways to work together, whether through projects, content, or events.
- Show Appreciation: Always thank people for their time and effort.
Final Thoughts
Cold outreach doesn’t have to feel cold. By researching, personalizing, and genuinely offering value, you can turn strangers into allies who contribute to your professional growth.
These strategies have been the backbone of my career in business development, and I hope they serve you well. Remember, every meaningful connection starts with a simple, thoughtful message. Take that first step—you never know where it might lead.