Email Writing Frameworks
1. Do the Maths Framework
Trigger + pitch + calculation + CTA
Structure:
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Saw [trigger]. Companies like yours typically [problem costing X]. We helped [similar company] reduce this by [%]. Worth a quick call?
When to use: When you can quantify the problem or ROI
2. Short-Trigger Based Outreach
Rules:
- •3-4 sentences maximum
- •Lead with observation, not pitch
- •One clear CTA
Structure:
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[Observation about their situation] [Brief connection to pain point] [Soft CTA]
When to use: Default framework for most cold outreach
3. Challenge of Similar Companies
Reference industry-specific pain and position as pattern you've seen.
Structure:
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Companies doing [X revenue] in [industry] often struggle with [problem]. We've helped [similar companies] solve this by [solution]. Is this on your radar?
When to use: When targeting a specific vertical or company profile
4. Neutral Insight Framework
Share third-party resource (not your content) to build trust before pitching.
Structure:
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Came across this [resource] that addresses [their problem]. Thought it might be useful given [observation about their situation]. [Optional soft pitch]
When to use: For warming up cold prospects, building trust first
5. Leader Responsibilities
Role-specific questions that prompt reflection.
Structure:
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As [title], how are you currently handling [challenge]? Most [titles] I talk to are dealing with [common problem]. Worth comparing notes?
When to use: When targeting specific roles with known pain points
Combines with
| Skill | Why |
|---|---|
cold-email-4-sequence | Apply frameworks to each email in sequence |
josh-braun-copywriting | Polish copy after choosing framework |
cold-email-templates-34 | See templates using each framework |
personalization-hooks | Add hooks to framework structure |
Example prompts
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Write an email using the "Do the Maths" framework for HR software targeting 500+ employee companies.
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Which framework should I use for a prospect who just raised Series B?
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Create a "Challenge of Similar Companies" email for e-commerce brands doing $5-20M revenue.