Prompt library
Write a first-touch cold email
The could-not-be-sent-to-anyone-else test on the first line is the single strongest filter against template smell. Hypothesis framing for the problem keeps the email respectful when your guess is wrong, and the micro-ask converts because it costs the reader almost nothing.
Last reviewed July 17, 2026
The prompt
Write a first-touch cold email.
Prospect: {{prospect}}
What we offer and the one result we can prove: {{offer}}
Rules:
1. Under 90 words. Four parts: a first line about them that could not be sent to anyone else, the problem we suspect they have (stated as a hypothesis, not an accusation), one proof point with a number, and a single low-friction ask.
2. Subject line under 5 words, lowercase, no brackets or "quick question".
3. No "I hope this finds you well", no flattery, no "revolutionary".
4. The ask is a yes/no question or a one-word reply, never "15 minutes of your time" on first touch.
Output 3 versions: safe, direct, and slightly playful. Mark which fits a first email to a senior title.Run in idaptOpens a new chat with the prompt prefilled. Nothing sends until you press send.
Fill in the variables
| Variable | What it is | Example |
|---|---|---|
| {{prospect}} | Who you are writing to, with something specific | VP support at a 200-person SaaS, just posted 3 support job openings |
| {{offer}} | Your offer and provable result | support triage automation; cut first response 4h to 20min at a similar company |