Key facts
- A small ask gets more replies than asking for 30 minutes, and a plain question reads better than a calendar link in a first email from a stranger.
- The smallest next step that still moves things on.
- The question is the last line before your name.
- Each email in a sequence can ask a slightly different thing.
Closing lines that work
- "Worth a look?"
- "Is this something you handle, or is there someone better to ask?"
- "Would a one-page example help?"
Closing lines to avoid
- "Do you have 30 minutes next week?" in the first email.
- A calendar link before they have shown interest.
- Two or three questions at once.
When does a calendar link make sense?
After someone says yes. Then it saves a round of back and forth.
How to write the last line
- Pick one question
The smallest next step that still moves things on.
- Make it easy to answer
Yes, no, or a name.
- Cut anything after it
The question is the last line before your name.
- Vary it in follow-ups
Each email in a sequence can ask a slightly different thing.
When does Buzzlist fit, and when does it not?
It fits when
- You want each email to end with one clear question written for that person.
It does not fit when
- You want a hard sell close.
Questions people ask next
Which sign-off should I use?
Any short, normal sign-off is fine. Keep it plain.
Is ending with let me know a good close?
It is vague. A specific question gets more replies.
Should I offer a free trial in the close?
Only if it is small and real. A useful thing beats a pitch.
What about a P.S. line?
It can work for one extra fact. Do not use it for a second ask.