How to Email a Person Who Never Gave You His or Her Email Address

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Make sure it is somebody that knows you by name

   Or just come right out and say how you found the email address. ,, Good all purpose questions include: "Do you recall the page minimum for that history paper" (if you share a class with them) "Do you happen to know if <friend of person> still lives in the area?" (can be covered as a job hunt, returning a lost item, or just wanting to get back in touch). "I really thought your <project/paper/presentation> on <subject> was great, can you point me to a few resources so I can learn more?" (general use, but be careful not to sound unrealistically scholastic, if the paper was on slug trails, you may show your hand). ,, This is not the point where you say "call me anytime" or "visit my website for everything you need to know about me."
   
   , It may also be good to add "(from Math 2)" or some other designation of where you know them from. ,, Ask them about themselves and let them expound.
   
   You can share your side of the story after you build up rapport.
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   Step 2: because if you are a mere acquaintance

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   Step 3: you are going to look like a stalker.

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   Step 4: Open your email with a neutral phrase

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   Step 5: like "I thought I remembered this was your email address

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   Step 6: is this <person name>?"

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   Step 7: Add "if so..." to the end of your first sentence.

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   Step 8: Have a legitimate question for the person

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   Step 9: don't just ramble.

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    Step 10: Thank them politely

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    Step 11: but not too profusely.

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    Step 12: Let them know the best way/time to contact you.

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    Step 13: Close with your standard signature

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    Step 14: unless it's unflattering.

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    Step 15: Don't forget to put your full name

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    Step 16: especially if you barely know the person.

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    Step 17: If/when the other person replies

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    Step 18: you can start to build a conversation

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    Step 19: keeping the tone light and your emails brief.

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    Step 20: Just like in real life

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    Step 21: questions are better than answers.

Detailed Guide

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