How do you write a cold email that gets replies?
What the interviewer wants to hear
- Research the person and a relevant trigger
- Short message focused on their problem, not your product
- One clear, low-friction call to action
- Specific, honest subject line
- Follow up with added value and test variations
Model answer
I start with research: the person's role, company news and a trigger such as a new location, funding or hiring. The email is short, usually under 100 words, and opens with that observation, then links it to a problem people in their role commonly face. I mention one relevant result from a similar customer as proof, then ask a simple question, like whether this is a priority this quarter, rather than asking for an hour-long demo. The subject line is short and specific, never clickbait. I send follow-ups that add something useful, such as a short insight, and I track reply rates by message so I can test different angles. Finally, I make sure outreach respects privacy rules and makes opting out easy.
Can you answer it under time pressure?
Take a timed easy round and get scored on every answer.
More easy Business Development Manager questions
- In your own words, what does a Business Development Manager do, and how is it different from a sales executive?
- How do you research a company before your first call with them?
- Prospecting involves a lot of rejection. How do you stay motivated and productive?
- Which metrics would you track to understand if your business development work is going well?
- Walk me through how you structure a discovery call.
- Why do you want to work in business development?
- How do you build trust with a prospect you have just met?
- How do you use LinkedIn in your prospecting?
- Tell me about a deal you are proud of winning.