There are several things that you should avoid in a cold email in order to improve your chances of success:
Spammy keywords:
Avoid using spammy words or phrases in your subject line or email body, as these can trigger spam filters and prevent your email from reaching its intended recipient.
Poor subject line:
A poor or misleading subject line can be a major turn-off for recipients, so make sure to craft a subject line that accurately reflects the content of your email and is likely to pique the recipient's interest.
Lack of context:
Don't assume that the recipient knows who you are or what your email is about. Make sure to introduce yourself and provide enough context for the recipient to understand the purpose of your email.
Unprofessional tone:
Avoid using overly casual or informal language in your cold email, as this can come across as unprofessional. Instead, aim for a tone that is friendly yet professional.
Poor formatting:
Make sure to use proper formatting in your cold email, including appropriate font sizes, margins, and paragraph breaks. A poorly formatted email can be difficult to read and may not be taken seriously.
Lack of personalization:
Don't send generic, mass emails to a list of recipients. Instead, take the time to personalize each email to the specific recipient, using their name and any other relevant information you have about them.
Using a free email with a generic domain:
Using a free email service like Gmail or Yahoo can make you appear less professional, so consider using a professional email service with a custom domain name.
Additionally, it’s a good practice to follow the following:
Don't send a generic, impersonal email.
Your cold email should be tailored to the specific recipient and should show that you have done your research and understand their needs and interests.
Don't make false or exaggerated claims.
Honesty is always the best policy, especially when trying to build trust with someone you don't know.
Don't send a long, rambling email.
Keep your cold email concise and to the point, and focus on making a clear and compelling pitch.
Don't use a spammy subject line.
Your subject line should be specific, descriptive, and relevant to the recipient, not just a cheap trick to get them to open your email.
Don't use a vague or ambiguous call to action.
Make it clear what you want the recipient to do next, and provide them with the information and resources they need to take action.
Don't neglect your email signature.
Your signature should include your name, title, and contact information, and should be professional and polished.
Don't forget to proofread.
A cold email filled with typos and errors is unlikely to inspire confidence in the recipient.