This week in the world’s #1 newsletter on leadership communication:
- How to write so you get everything you want
- Looking to launch or grow your podcast in 2025?
- Unlock the Science of Authentic Conversation
How To Write So That Busy People Respond
Is it possible to write emails that even busy CEOs, millionaires and prospects will answer?
Yes there is.
Don’t get me wrong. There is no guarantee that a particular person will respond.
It’s a numbers game. And you want the numbers to be in your favor.
I've been writing every day since my childhood. When I was eight I started my own newspaper from my bedroom.
As a teenager I wrote for the local paper, and as a professional I've been writing non-stop for 25 years. I've written four books and publish content daily.
So it's fair to say that I have a few insights into what kind of writing gets responses and what gets ignored.
After all, my livelihood depends on my writing skills.
I noticed one peculiar thing: Most people underestimate how easy it is to cold email someone and how impactful that can be.
Confidently sending cold emails or DMs is a life-changing skill.
So if you want replies from busy people, here's how:
#1 Treat their time as more valuable than your own.
#2 Be okay with rejection. Ask boldly and let reality say no.
#3 Subject line = everything. If it doesn’t hook, they’ll never open it.
#4 Keep it short. No one reads long pitches. Less is more.
#5 Get straight to the point. Skip the fluff – what’s in it for them?
#6 Make it personal. Show you genuinely care about this person.
#7 Write like a leader. Short, direct messages – no apologies.
#8 Make it easy to scan. White space, short sentences.
#9 Prove your value. A quick line of credibility or social proof.
#10 Make it easy to say yes: “Yes, send me more.”
Want replies? Write for them, not for you.
Pro tip: Reply to someone’s newsletter. Few people do, and you get great results!
And if you want to work with me to improve your writing skills, check out the Speak Like a CEO Academy. January is Writing Month, and we kick off with a Mastermind next week.
OLIVER'S RECOMMENDATION CORNER
Looking To Launch Or Grow Your Podcast In 2025?
Join me for a free masterclass on the secrets to podcast success, organized by the IABC. We’ll dissect why some podcasts thrive while others struggle.
Featured Speakers:
✨ Oliver Aust, Host of the "Speak like a CEO" podcast
✨ Kendall Breitman, Community Manager for Riverside.fm
✨ Doug Downs, SCMP, Host of the "Stories & Strategies" podcast
✨ Monique Zytnik, Chair of IABC EMENA
📅 Wednesday, January 22nd
🕒 4 PM CET
BOOK RECOMMENDATION
Unlock the Science of Authentic Conversation
Ever wonder what makes a conversation truly meaningful? In Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves by Alison Wood Brooks, the author dives deep into the psychology and dynamics of effective communication.
Here are three key takeaways:
- Conversations are an art, but also a science – Instead of sticking with typical “What do you do?” you might ask, “What’s been the most interesting part of your work lately?” This question not only sparks a deeper conversation but also taps into the cognitive process of curiosity and emotional connection.
- The power of authenticity – Being yourself in conversations leads to stronger connections, even in professional settings.
- Small talk isn't small at all – Mastering everyday conversations can build rapport and set the stage for more impactful exchanges.
This book offers practical, research-backed insights into becoming a better communicator while staying true to yourself.
Alison will be a guest on the Speak Like a CEO podcast in two week’s time to help us elevate our conversational skills!
Have an inspired week,
Oliver
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