Email with or without the name (for new prospects)?

9 replies
Hi

If I was to make first contact via email it is a good idea to mention the name of the business owner? Or would a simple "hello" be more appropriate?

Thanks.
#email #prospects
  • Profile picture of the author dcc1980
    If I'm understanding your question right, I'd definitely use their name in the greeting.
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  • Profile picture of the author CoachGC
    If you don't know him/her use their name. It is a sign of respect and we all like to be called by our names. A little formal protocol has never hurt anybody, but the lack of it has been the reason for many deal breakers! Try to set the tone of your email with the greeting.

    Try reading this post, I think you'll find it helpful

    Business Writing: Salutations in Letters and Email

    Here are some Sign-offs you can use too

    Best,
    Yours,
    Cordially,
    Regards,
    Best regards,
    Best wishes,
    Sincerely,
    Kindest regards,
    Warmest regards,
    I remain yours truly,
    Warmly,
    Thanks again,
    My sincere thanks for your time and consideration,
    Take care,
    Continued success,
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  • Profile picture of the author ZachWaldman
    They've done studies and found the most pleasant thing for people to hear is their own name.

    After a performance, when people come up to me, they're always impressed that I remember their names. It makes them feel special.

    Years ago, I didn't make an effort to remember and would make jokes about not knowing who they were. I got laughs, but when I saw how much more powerful it was to actually know their names, that's the route I took.

    So, not only would I use the person's name in your correspondence, I would make a special effort to remember people's names in daily life.

    There are all types of tricks you can use to do this. However, I've found the most important thing is to simply remember to remember. If you remind yourself after hearing the person's name to remember it, you will. It's that extra second reminder you give yourself, and it's all most people need.
    Signature
    Zach Waldman - Los Angeles Magician
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  • Profile picture of the author Vibrant Warrior
    I should have been a bit more specific about the question. Yes. A Person's name is literally music to their ears and yes it's a sign of respect and holding them in high regard when spoken to, IF you already know the person in some form or manner. But what if a prospect were to receive a "cold call" from someone that they had no knowledge of and are being referred by their name completely out of the blue? Wouldn't that sound a bit conspicuous or even a bit creepy ?
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  • Profile picture of the author Danielm
    I don't think it is creepy. I mean you are already calling them so they would probably assume you already have their info vs. just dialing random numbers hoping to get someone.
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  • Profile picture of the author Rus Sells
    Make sure you pronounce the name correctly.

    Case in point!

    Back in the day I used to be in the insurance restoration industry and I solicited a home that I wanted to be the first job in the neighborhood.

    I get the homo owner outside and we introduce ourselves, his name is Mr. Annus. Pronounced like Ann-us.

    I proceeded to address him as Mr. Anus the whole time we're talking and I'm pitching.

    Fortunately I'm a grand master closer and he signed the deal on the hood of my truck, despite me calling him an ass the whole time! LOL

    He took the opportunity to correct me the very second he signed the contract. haha

    Zach is right, you should try and find out the business owners name and use it.
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  • Profile picture of the author 1million1
    You can't go wrong with using their name when you are sending them an email.
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