The start of a new year creates a unique psychological window for sales professionals. Buyers are mentally resetting, setting fresh goals, and evaluating their strategies for the year ahead. This mindset makes them more receptive to outreach than at any other time of the calendar year. However, the holiday season also floods inboxes with generic greetings and noise. Standing out requires more than just saying “Happy New Year.” It demands relevance, timing, and a touch of personality.
Sales emails that incorporate humor, specific value, or timely observations tend to perform better. Most prospects receive dozens of dry, transactional messages daily. A message that breaks the pattern with levity or genuine insight can capture attention quickly. The templates below are designed to help you re-engage prospects, follow up on stalled conversations, or close the loop with unresponsive leads. They leverage the New Year theme without feeling forced or overly festive.
Prospecting Email Templates for Cold Outreach
Cold outreach in January is distinct from other months because buyers are actively planning. They are looking for solutions to problems they identified in the previous year or new opportunities to capitalize on. Your goal is to position your offering as part of their success story for the coming months. These templates focus on immediate relevance, showing that you understand their current challenges and have a plan to address them.
Reference a Timely Challenge
The first template uses a subtle play on words to highlight urgency. It reminds the prospect that while the world is celebrating, their business challenges remain. This approach works because it shifts the focus from the holiday to their operational needs. It shows you are thinking about their business, not just sending a bulk greeting. The key is to replace the bracketed sections with a specific challenge relevant to their industry.
Subject: Don’t drop the ball …
Hi [Prospect Name],
The ball might’ve dropped in Times Square, but I’m guessing you don’t want to drop the ball on [initiative, recent company announcement, industry shift, likely challenge].
I have a few suggestions on [improving/addressing business challenge]. Are you free on [date and time] to discuss them?
Best,
[Your Name]
Use Self-Deprecation to Build Rapport
Humor is a powerful tool in sales, especially when it humanizes the sender. This template uses a self-deprecating joke about New Year’s resolutions to create a lighthearted tone. It makes the sender seem relatable and less like a typical salesperson. Prospects are more likely to respond to someone who appears genuine and approachable. The focus remains on helping them achieve their goals, but the delivery is softer and more engaging.
Subject: [Prospect Name], I need your help
Hey [Prospect Name],
This year, I’m resolving to help you [solve X challenge, accomplish Y goal, pursue Z opportunity]. Oh, and [work out more often, eat less dessert, get organized] … but I’m less confident about that one.
Will you help me keep at least one of my resolutions? If you’re available on [date and time], I have X suggestions that may help in [business area].
Thank you,
[Your Name]
Highlight Industry Trends
This template leverages the “new year, new you” concept but applies it to business strategy. It references a specific trend that is likely to impact the prospect’s industry. This shows that you are knowledgeable about their market and can provide valuable insights. If they are already thinking about this trend, you will impress them with your timing. If they are not, you will spark their interest and offer a solution. It is short, direct, and easy to read.
Subject: New year, new [Prospect’s Company]?
Hi [Prospect Name],
Thanks to [trend], [business area, strategic focus] will be a major focus in 2020 for companies of [prospect’s size] in [prospect’s space]. How does [Prospect’s Company] plan to capitalize on this change?
Best,
[Your Name]
Acknowledge Company Milestones
Personalization is crucial in cold outreach. This template demonstrates that you have done your research by referencing a recent announcement or milestone achieved by the prospect’s company. It feels tailored and specific, which increases the likelihood of a response. The question at the end is simple, requiring only a yes or no answer, making it low-effort for the prospect to reply. It also opens the door for a deeper conversation about their future plans.
Subject: Cheers to [Prospect’s Company]
Hello [Prospect Name],
Most people are still toasting to the new year, but I’m lifting a virtual glass to [Prospect’s Company] in honor of [recent announcement].
Typically, businesses who do X [struggle with A, pursue B next, double their return by investing in C, minimize risk with D strategy]. Have you considered this approach?
Best,
[Your Name]
Create Urgency with Humor
This template uses a cheeky subject line to grab attention. It plays on the idea of waiting all year to send a message, which is technically true but adds a humorous twist. The body of the email then pivots to a serious discussion about a timely challenge or opportunity. This contrast between humor and substance keeps the prospect engaged. It also provides a resource, such as a blog post or white paper, to add value upfront.
Subject: [Prospect Name], I’ve waited all year to send you this
Hi [Prospect Name],
To be fair, since it’s [date] 2020 I’ve only waited X days … But when it comes to [likely challenge, opportunity, industry shift], time is of the essence.
How is [Prospect’s Company] planning to [deal with challenges, capitalize on X opportunity, respond to industry shift]? This [blog post, podcast episode, white paper] has some interesting tips.
Cheers,
[Your Name]
Offer Value First
Prospects are more likely to respond to offers of help than requests for time. This template positions the sender as a resource rather than a vendor. It asks if the prospect would be interested in an introduction, a feature in a post, or a recommendation. This approach builds goodwill and establishes the sender as a helpful contact. Once you have provided value, the prospect is more open to learning about your product or service.
Subject: [Prospect Name], I want to be the first …
… to wish you a Happy New Year, that is.
Now that we’ve gotten the last scraps of confetti out of our hair, I have a serious question. Would you be interested in [an introduction to a helpful person, a feature in a post I’m writing on X, a recommendation on achieving Y]?
[Your Name]
Use Pop Culture References
Pop culture references can make your email memorable and fun. This template uses a Ghostbusters reference to showcase personality. It demonstrates that you are not just another salesperson sending a generic message. The reference is light and does not distract from the main point, which is offering suggestions for solving a pain point. It works well for industries or prospects that appreciate creativity and humor.
Subject: Proton pack weapon not included …
I might not have a proton pack weapon, but I do have a few suggestions for [solving pain point]. Is that a challenge [Prospect’s Company] is currently dealing with?
[Your Name]
Use Unexpected Facts
An unexpected subject line can significantly boost open rates. This template uses a surprising fact about the cost of attending a New Year’s Eve party at a popular restaurant. It catches the reader off guard and makes them curious about the connection to your message. The punch line is memorable, ensuring that your email stays on their mind throughout the day. It then transitions smoothly into a discussion about solving a business challenge.
Subject: Would you pay $400 to eat at Olive Garden?
Hi [Prospect Name],
That’s how much the restaurant’s Times Square location charged people to attend its New Year’s Eve party last year.
But whether you ate lots of pasta this New Year’s or settled for good old-fashioned libations, I’m sure you’re thinking about how to [solve X likely challenge]. I have some ideas — want to hear them?
You can book a meeting with me here: [Link to meetings tool.]
- [Your Name]
Highlight Past Successes
People enjoy talking about their achievements. This template acknowledges the progress the prospect’s company has made in the past year. It shows that you have been paying attention and value their success. By offering ideas to capitalize on their momentum, you position yourself as a partner in their continued growth. This approach is flattering and engaging, making it a great way to start the year.
Subject: You’re on a roll, [Prospect Name]
Hi [Prospect Name],
I’ve been following you on LinkedIn for awhile, and couldn’t help but notice all of the incredible strides your company made this year.
I have some ideas for how you can capitalize on your momentum in the new year. Are you free on [date and time] to discuss them?
Best,
[Your Name]
Follow-Up Email Templates for Stalled Conversations
Follow-up emails are often where deals are won or lost. The New Year provides a natural excuse to re-engage with prospects who have gone silent. These templates are designed to break the ice without being pushy. They acknowledge the passage of time and offer a fresh perspective on how you can help. The goal is to restart the conversation and move the prospect further down the sales funnel.
Be Honest About Previous Outreach
Honesty can be a powerful differentiator. This template acknowledges that previous outreach attempts did not resonate. It shows humility and a willingness to adapt. By refocusing on the prospect’s needs, you demonstrate that you are committed to finding a solution that works for them. Listing common challenges in their industry invites them to share their specific pain points, opening the door for a relevant discussion.
Subject: Turning the page
Hi [Prospect Name],
I’ve reached out to [Prospect’s Company] a few times over the past [X months, year] but haven’t heard back. What I talked about clearly didn’t resonate. In honor of the new year, I’m refocusing on your needs.
The companies I work with in [Prospect’s Industry] of [Prospect’s Size] typically struggle with these challenges:
- [Challenge #1]
- [Challenge #2]
Are you experiencing either of these?
Best,
[Your Name]
Share Relevant Industry Predictions
Sharing valuable content is a great way to stay top-of-mind. This template references a prediction article relevant to the prospect’s industry. It shows that you are informed and care about their success. By asking if they have a plan in place for the predicted change, you invite them to discuss their strategy. This positions you as a helpful resource rather than just a vendor.
Subject: [Prospect Name], have you seen this?
Hey [Prospect Name],
I came across this post on [2020 predictions for prospect’s industry or market] and thought of you. The author thinks [X event] is highly likely — does [Prospect’s Company] have a plan in place for [responding to, minimizing the impact of, profiting from] this change?
Best,
[Your Name]
Offer a No-Strings Consultation
This template offers a free consultation with no sales pitch. It is an unexpected approach that can pique the interest of a skeptical prospect. By giving your time away for free, you build trust and demonstrate your expertise. The key is to deliver on the promise and provide genuine value during the consultation. This can lead to a natural opportunity to discuss your product or service later.
Subject: I have an interesting New Year’s Resolution
Hi [Prospect Name],
In honor of the new year, I’m doing something that might sound crazy: I’m giving my time away for free.
The last time we spoke, you [expressed concern, demonstrated interest] in [business area related to rep’s expertise]. If you want a no-strings-attached [15-minute, 20-minute, half hour] consultation on [rep’s area of expertise], just [book a slot on my calendar, respond with your preferred date and time] — no sales pitch, guaranteed.
There’s no catch — I’d rather commit to this resolution than try to exercise more (and fail for the third year in a row).
Looking forward to discussing [how to solve X, drive Y results],
[Your Name]
Show Persistence with Humor
This template uses humor about abandoned resolutions to show that you are persistent. It acknowledges that most people give up on their goals quickly, but you are not giving up on the prospect. It is a lighthearted way to check in and see if their priorities have changed. The short and sweet message is easy to read and respond to.
Subject: 80% of people do this by February
[Prospect Name],
Can you believe most resolutions are abandoned by the second week of February?
I’m not giving up on you so easily. Let me know if [addressing X, doing Y] is still a priority in Q2.
- [Your Name]
Acknowledge Inbox Overload
Prospects receive hundreds of emails daily. This template acknowledges that your previous message may have been lost in the noise. It is a empathetic approach that shows you understand their busy schedule. By offering to follow up on a previous conversation, you remind them of the value you can provide. It is a gentle nudge that does not feel pushy.
Subject: Don’t you hate when this happens?
[Prospect Name],
I’m sure your inbox is jam-packed, so I wanted to make sure we didn’t lose touch.
I would love to follow up on our conversation from last week to discuss how I can support your 2020 business plans. Are you available at [date, time]?
- [Your Name]
Breakup Email Templates to Close the Loop
Sometimes, a prospect is simply not interested. Continuing to chase them can be counterproductive and damage your brand reputation. Breakup emails are a professional way to close the loop and move on. They give the prospect one last chance to respond while allowing you to focus on more qualified leads. These templates are polite, direct, and leave the door open for future engagement.
Use a Classic Movie Reference
This template uses a famous line from When Harry Met Sally to add a touch of humor. It acknowledges that this is the last opportunity to work together. The urgency created by this final offer can sometimes prompt a response from a prospect who was on the fence. It is a memorable and effective way to end the conversation.
Subject: Times are changin’
Hello [Prospect Name],
I promise I’m not just reaching out because it’s New Year’s …
I’m reaching out to ask if you’re still interested in [driving X results, investing in Y business area, fixing Z issue]. If this is no longer a priority, do I have permission to close your file?
Thanks,
[Your Name]
Reevaluate Strategies
This template is short and sweet. It asks if the prospect is still interested in discussing solutions as they enter the new year. It gives them a chance to respond if their priorities have changed. If they do not respond, you can confidently move on. This approach is professional and respects the prospect’s time.
Subject: [Prospect’s Company] 2020 [Business Area] plans?
Hi [Prospect Name],
As [Prospect’s Company] enters the new year, you might be reevaluating your strategies for X. Are you still interested in discussing [solutions to/opportunities in] X for [Prospect’s Company]?
If not, please let me know so I can stop reaching out.
Best,
[Your Name]
Playfully Acknowledge the Silence
This template uses a playful reference to a song about not talking anymore. It acknowledges the lack of communication without being accusatory. It shows that you are ready to try one last time but will accept if they are not interested. The humor makes the message more engaging and less formal.
Subject: It’s been a while
Hi [Prospect Name],
We don’t talk anymore, like we used to … But it’s a new year, and I’m ready to try one last time.
When we last spoke, we discussed [pain] and how [product] could help [drive X results]. Are you still interested in continuing that discussion? If not, please let me know so I can stop playing this song.
Best,
[Your Name]
Leave the Door Open
Sometimes, it is best to simply let the prospect know you are available when they are ready. This template is polite and non-intrusive. It acknowledges that they may be busy and offers help without pressure. This approach can leave a positive impression and keep your brand top-of-mind for future opportunities.
Subject: Ready when you are
Hi [Prospect Name],
I’m sure your new year has gotten off to a busy start.
When you’re ready to discuss a solution for [problem] to help solve [result], I’ll be here to help.
Best,
[Your Name]
These templates provide a versatile toolkit for navigating the post-holiday sales landscape. By combining relevance, humor, and professionalism, you can increase your response rates and start the year on a strong note. Remember to customize each template to fit your specific context and the prospect’s unique situation. The goal is to build relationships, not just send messages. How will you adapt these templates to fit your brand voice?
