Unsubscribe

STYLE CHECKLIST Be scannable. Lead with the ask. Establish your credibility. Make the way forward clear. Give them a deadline. If you’re asking a question, propose a solution. Write your subject lines like headlines. Preview all messages on your phone. Edit ruthlessly.

Instead, propose something specific: I’m a longtime admirer of your work and have the greatest respect for your filmmaking expertise. I would love to ask you a few questions about how you financed your first film. Would you be game for a 15–20 minute phone call next week? My schedule is wide open all day Thursday and Friday if you have availability then. I promise to keep it brief.