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Cold outreach template for newsletter editors

Newsletter editors get more pitches than they can read. The ones that get used are short, clearly relevant to that newsletter's readers, and include a blurb the editor could paste with light edits. Pitch individuals, reference something they actually covered, and make it easy to say no.

Use it for

  • Launch week, for newsletters in your niche.
  • A notable release or free tool.
  • Anything their readers would want to know about.

Limits and rules

  • Commercial email in the US must follow CAN-SPAM: accurate sender, honest subject, opt-out honored.[1]

The template

Copy it, then replace everything in [BRACKETS]. Delete lines that don't apply rather than leaving them vague.

Pitch to newsletter editors template
SUBJECT: For [NEWSLETTER] readers: [WHAT IT IS IN 6 WORDS]

Hi [EDITOR NAME],

I read [NEWSLETTER] - [SPECIFIC ISSUE OR ITEM YOU LIKED] was [WHY IT WAS USEFUL].

I just launched [PRODUCT], which [WHAT IT DOES] for [WHO]. I think it fits your readers because [SPECIFIC REASON TIED TO THEIR AUDIENCE].

If it's useful, here's a blurb you can use or edit:
"[PRODUCT] [DOES WHAT] for [WHO]. [ONE CONCRETE DETAIL]. [PRICE / FREE TIER]. [LINK]"

Screenshots and a demo video: [PRESS KIT LINK]

No worries if it's not a fit - thanks for the newsletter either way.

[YOUR NAME]
[ROLE], [PRODUCT]

How to fill it in

  1. [SPECIFIC ISSUE]

    Proves you read it. One real reference.

  2. [SPECIFIC REASON]

    Why their readers, not readers in general.

  3. [BLURB]

    40–60 words, factual, no superlatives.

Filled example

Fictional example. Paperlark is a fictional product we made up for these examples: an invoice-reminder tool for freelancers that sends polite follow-ups when a client pays late. Names, prices and details are invented to show the template filled in; they aren't a real company or real results.

Example (fictional product)
SUBJECT: For Freelance Weekly readers: automatic reminders for late invoices

Hi Alex,

I read Freelance Weekly - your issue on setting payment terms was the first time I added late fees to my contracts.

I just launched Paperlark, which sends polite, scheduled reminders for unpaid invoices. I think it fits your readers because so many of your issues touch on getting paid on time.

If it's useful, here's a blurb you can use or edit:
"Paperlark sends scheduled, polite reminders for unpaid invoices and stops when you mark them paid. You pick the tone: friendly, firm or final. Free for 3 invoices a month. paperlark.example"

Screenshots and a demo video: paperlark.example/press

No worries if it's not a fit - thanks for the newsletter either way.

Sam
Founder, Paperlark

Do

  • Pitch one editor at a time, by name.
  • Include a usable blurb.
  • Link a press kit.
  • Follow up once at most, a week later.

Don't

  • Don't mass-mail editors with BCC.
  • Don't pitch newsletters outside your niche.
  • Don't send attachments.
  • Don't offer payment for coverage without asking about their sponsorship rules.

FAQ

How long should a newsletter pitch be?

Short enough to read in 30 seconds: why their readers, what it is, a ready blurb and a link.

Should I follow up?

Once, about a week later, is reasonable. After that, move on.

Can I pay for a mention?

Many newsletters sell sponsorships. That's an ad, not editorial coverage; ask about their sponsorship options separately.

Launch guides that use this template

Sources

  1. FTC: CAN-SPAM Act compliance guide for business

Checked . Platforms change their rules; open the source before you rely on a number.

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