Google Docs Email Outreach

A method for reaching out to busy people by sending questions via Google Doc instead of requesting meetings or calls. This approach was demonstrated through Shaan's successful outreach to Sarah Moore of egg cartons.com.

Core Strategy

  • Send initial email with enthusiasm about their work/business
  • Include link to Google Doc with specific questions
  • Offer value proposition (e.g. podcast exposure, audience size)
  • Allow them to respond on their own time with bullet points

Why It Works

  • Respects busy people's time
  • Lets them respond when convenient
  • More likely to get detailed responses vs trying to schedule calls
  • Easier for recipient to quickly assess if worth their time
  • Can lead to deeper engagement if initial response is positive

Real Example Used

  • Subject line: "egg cartons!!!!!!" (showed genuine enthusiasm)
  • Mentioned podcast reach ($20M/year in context)
  • Included 5 specific questions in Google Doc
  • Got no response for 20 days
  • Eventually received detailed responses after person verified legitimacy
  • Led to rich information that wouldn't have come from a quick call

Key Takeaway

  • Async communication via Google Doc can be more effective than trying to get busy people on calls
  • Format should be:
    • Brief intro showing genuine interest
    • Clear value proposition
    • Specific questions in accessible format
    • Patient follow-up timeline
29:51 - 30:49
Full video: 38:14
SP

Shaan Puri

Host of MFM

Shaan Puri is the Chairman and Co-Founder of The Milk Road. He previously worked at Twitch as a Senior Director of Product, Mobile Gaming, and Emerging Markets. He also attended Duke University.

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