Cover Letters & Networking Emails That Actually Get Replies
Templates and principles for cover letters, cold outreach and follow-ups that don't end up in the graduate-recruitment bin.
Cover letters and networking emails are the two pieces of student writing most likely to be read by a decision-maker. Both are usually written badly because students copy templates without understanding what the reader actually wants.
The cover letter that gets read
Three short paragraphs. Paragraph one: which role, which firm, specific reason you chose them (not "your reputation for excellence" — an actual project, deal or piece of research). Paragraph two: two or three quantified achievements that map to the role. Paragraph three: what you can contribute in the internship and why the timing is right. Sign off, done. Under 300 words.
Networking email template
Subject: specific, not "networking request." Body: who you are (one line), the specific reason you are writing to them (one line), what you would like to ask (fifteen minutes on X), a suggestion of two time windows. Under 120 words. Do not attach a CV.
Warm connections beat cold ones
The single easiest reply-rate lift is a shared affiliation. "As a fellow AKPsi brother" or "as a fellow LSE undergrad" gets you into the reply queue in a way cold outreach does not. This is one of the quiet reasons professional fraternities and tight-knit societies compound so hard.
Following up after events
Within 24 hours. Reference something specific from the conversation — not "great to meet you" but "loved the point you made about X." Ask one specific follow-up question or propose a coffee. Add on LinkedIn in the same window.
What kills a reply
Anything over 200 words. Any generic "I would love to learn more about your career journey." Any request that requires the recipient to do work before they even reply. Keep the ask small and the homework yours.
Who to email in the first place
Cold outreach converts far better when you share an institutional tie — the same fraternity, society, or programme. Joining a professional fraternity opens a global alumni list that reliably replies. See how UK chapters workor the chapter map.