Declassified SCAD Survival Guide
Get Hired

Email Templates

DD
Desmond Du

Simple

The template below is for contacting an opportunity posting.
Subject line: [Project] Freelance Outreach

Hey [Recipient's Name],
I’m [Name], a [Location][Role]! Reaching out to you here as I saw your message on [platform] for freelance work regarding [work details]. I am interested in the project, and I am available [when]!
I would like to learn and discuss further about the project details.
Here's the link to my portfolio for your consideration:
Website - [Portfolio Website Link]
Showreel - [Vimeo Link]
Instagram - [Instagram Profile Link]*

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Best regards, [Your Name]
*Remove or add if necessary
Why and when add your location in an introduction? Including your location helps with time zone coordination, builds connection, and can add credibility if your area is known in your field.

Sample

Subject line: 3D Animation - Freelance Outreach

Hey Jack,
I’m John Doe, and I’m NYC-based 3D Artist! Reaching out to you here as I saw your message on the MDA Slack group for freelance work regarding 3D rigging, texturing, and animating an animal. I am interested in the project, and I am available immediately.
I have experience in what you are looking for, and you can review my relevant work samples here:
Specific Project 1 - [Project Page Link]
Specific Project 2 - [Project Page Link]
And here are additional materials for your consideration:
Website - [Portfolio Website Link]
Showreel - [Vimeo Link]
Instagram - [Instagram Profile Link]*

My rate is $70/hour, and my day rate is $560/ for 8 hour work day.
Let me know if you would like to discuss further about the project.
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Best regards, [Your Name]

LinkedIn Reachout

For LinkedIn post comments, we aim for a shorter message:
linkedin
Hi [Recipient's Name]! I’m [Name], a [Location][Role] with [Experience/Specialty]. I am interested and available [When]. Let’s chat! [Website Link]

Following up

This approach sets a specific meeting request by suggesting a particular date and time for the meeting. It makes it easy for the recipient to respond by offering a clear "yes" or "no" to the proposed time and providing the option to suggest an alternative if needed. This approach ensures that the recipient can find an appropriate timing that works for them while still facilitating efficient scheduling.
Hey [Name],
Thanks for getting back to me!
Would you be available for a meeting on [Date] at [Time/Timezone] on [Zoom/ Google Meet] to discuss project requirements and my availability.
However, I'm flexible with the timing and days, so if that doesn't work, we can find another time that suits you better. I'm free throughout the week to chat.
Looking forward to talking with you.
Best regards,
[Your Name]

Reaching out to a contact provided

Subject line: [Person] sent me - Topic
...

Follow-Up on Missed Appointment

When a client or team member misses a scheduled virtual meeting, first email them the Zoom/meeting link to remind them. If you still don't hear back or they don't join, use the template below to address the missed appointment, indicating you have logged off and suggesting rescheduling.
It's [15 minutes/duration] past our appointment time, and I haven't heard from you. I hope everything is alright. I'm not sure what might have happened.
I am logging off from the Zoom call and will wait to hear from you to organize the next steps.

FAQs

How should I respond if I cannot take on the freelance work?
If you cannot take on the work due to being booked already or being out of office, you can reply saying that you are booked and offer a recommendation of your peer who needs it. We are all in the same journey, so let’s elevate one another where we can.
Hi [Person],
Thank you for the opportunity! Unfortunately, I won’t be able to take on the role as I am booked now and next availability is [DATE] .
I do have a design peer that I think would be a great fit for this project:
[Peer Name]
Email: []
Website:

Phone number: [Phone Number]

I hope these recommendations help! Thanks again, and I look forward to staying in touch and will update you when my availability opens up!

How should one handle specifying a start date while simultaneously engaged in discussions with other companies, when responding to an internship offer?
If you are still keeping your options open or aren’t in a situation to make a decision yet:
Hey [Name],
Thank you so much for your offering this internship!
My earliest availability would be [DATE], as I like to focus on my last quarter of my studies and take a short break after graduation.
When do you need my confirmation? I'm still sorting out my post-graduation plans/OPT start date, so I'd appreciate some flexibility and time before providing you with an answer!

Let me know what you think. We can chat more over a call/zoom if needed.
Somethings you can do help make your decision
Gain a deeper understanding of the company and its offerings, including details such as start date, compensation, potential for full-time conversion, as well as eligibility for E-verify and OPT STEM Extension.
Considering the location and commute, especially if relocation is involved.
Seeking advice or insights from mentors, peers, or professionals familiar with the company or industry.
Also learn about other requirements eg. relocation, remote,

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