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Hello there Reader,
Before jumping into today's newsletter, I want to quickly share with you that I'm running the next Manage your career like a PM workshop from 6-7 September.
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Whether it be for the job search or career growth, you should be conducting outreach as a means to grow your network.
I want to help you overcome common barriers and avoid mistakes most people make when reaching out professionally.
Here is what many get wrong when conducting cold outreach:
They give up after one attempt.
They ask for favours or referrals too quickly.
Or, they become that annoying person who messages daily until they’re blocked.
Even worse, some people push really hard.
Here’s a real message from someone pressing me for not responding within 48 hours:
Not a great strategy when asking for free help.
There’s a better approach that respects them, your time, and their inbox.
Introducing the 3x3 Rule
This simple framework is all you need.
No more than 3 messages.
No less than 3 days between each message.
This framework applies universally—LinkedIn DMs, interview follow-ups, mentor outreach, or connecting with industry leaders.
The beauty lies in its balance: you demonstrate genuine interest without crossing into harassment territory.
As soon as someone writes back, the 3x3 approach has worked. If you get to the third message and there’s no reply, simply stop and move on.
What goes into a 3x3 message
Three simple things:
Personalised greeting
Stated intent
End with an ask
Avoid the long-winded pleasantries (e.g., “Thank you for your time and consideration” or “I hope you have a wonderful day”). It sounds counter-intuitive, but what you’re doing instead (without these lines) is demonstrating precision with your message.
Why this works
Persistence shows commitment. Three attempts prove you’re seriously interested without becoming a nuisance.
Spacing respects busy schedules. Everyone’s inbox gets buried—give your message time to be discovered.
Natural closure provides peace of mind. After three attempts, you can move forward knowing you made a proper effort.
Making new PM connections
After connecting on LinkedIn with Product Managers at your target company, use these templates as inspiration.
Message 1: Initial connection
Hi [Name], I noticed your work on [specific product/feature] at [Company]. As a PM with experience in [relevant area], I’d love to learn more about your team’s approach to [specific aspect of product management]. Would you be open to a 15-minute chat?
Message 2: Value-add follow-up (3+ days later)
Hi [Name], I wanted to follow up on my previous message. I recently read [article/book] about [topic relevant to their work] and thought of your team’s work on [product]. I’d still love to connect if you have time. Would chatting async work for you?
Message 3: Graceful exit (3+ days after Message 2)
Hi [Name], I understand you’re busy, so this will be my last message. If you don’t have time to connect, can you suggest someone else on the product team who might be open to a brief conversation?
Approaching Hiring Managers
If you know the person is a hiring manager for a role you’re interested in or have applied to, follow these templates.
Message 1: Role-specific interest
Hello [Name], I’m reaching out regarding the [specific role] position at [Company]. My experience leading [relevant product/initiative] at [Current/Previous Company] aligns well with your team’s focus on [company priority from job description]. Would you be open to discussing how my background might fit your team’s needs?
Message 2: Demonstrate understanding (3+ days later)
Hi [Name], I wanted to follow up about the [role] position. Are you open to chatting for 15 minutes?
Message 3: Professional closure (3+ days after Message 2)
Hello [Name], I wanted to make one final attempt to connect regarding the [role]. I understand hiring processes are complex and time-consuming. If the timing isn’t right, is there someone else at [Company] you suggest I connect with?
After an interview
After interviewing for a position, use these templates to maintain a professional connection with recruiters.
Hello [Name], Thank you for the opportunity to interview for the [specific role] position yesterday. I particularly enjoyed discussing [specific topic from interview]. The conversation reinforced my enthusiasm for joining [Company] and contributing to [company initiative/goal]. When can I expect to hear next steps?
Message 2: Thoughtful follow-up (3+ days later)
Hi [Name], I wanted to follow up regarding the [role] position we discussed last week. After reflecting on our conversation about [specific challenge/project mentioned], I’m even more excited about the possibility of bringing my experience in [relevant skill] to your team. Can I expect to hear back about the next stage this week?
Message 3: Professional closure (3+ days after Message 2)
Hello [Name], I’m reaching out one final time regarding the [role] position. I understand hiring decisions take time and involve many factors. If you’re still in the decision-making process, I remain very interested. If the timing or fit isn’t right, can you share any feedback that might help me in future opportunities?
Seeking industry insights
When researching a specific topic or industry trend, structure your messages to make it easy for busy professionals to share their expertise.
Message 1: Clear, specific ask
Hi [Name], I’m researching the impact of [specific trend] on [industry] and would value your expert perspective. Your recent work on [relevant project/article] caught my attention. Could you share your thoughts on how [specific aspect] is changing the landscape?
Message 2: Narrow the focus (3+ days later)
Hello [Name], I wanted to follow up on my question about [topic]. To make it simpler, I’m particularly interested in [more specific aspect]. Even a brief observation would be incredibly helpful. What’s your take on this?
Message 3: Alternative path (3+ days after Message 2)
Hi [Name], I understand your schedule is likely quite packed. If you’re unable to share your thoughts on [topic], might you recommend a resource or another expert in your network who could provide some insight?
Make every message count
The quality of your outreach matters as much as the timing. Follow these principles for maximum impact:
Always be concise.
Minimise the fluff.
End with a question.
The goal is to demonstrate thoughtful persistence while respecting their time and attention.
Most people appreciate follow-up when it’s done professionally.
What to do about being ghosted
You’ll never know why someone doesn’t respond. And despite what you might think, it’s not always about you or your messages.
Adopt the “plenty of fish in the sea” mindset here. You’re looking for people who want to engage in conversation. Believe me, they are out there.
So when people don’t respond, simply move on to the next conversation.
Your turn
What’s your approach to professional outreach?
Have you tried something similar to the 3x3 rule?
Reply to this email and let me know—I read every response.
Until next week,
James
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