Read time: 4 minutes

Today, I’ll show you how to revolutionize email follow-ups with these succinct, powerful techniques.

Are you blowing WAY too much time on lengthy follow-up emails that architects ignore? What if you could capture their attention and get a prompt reply with a few words?

This issue is dedicated to transforming your email strategy using Dean Jackson’s 9-word email concept. We’re answering the crucial questions: How can you make every word in your email count? And how can you spur architects into action?

A Shift in Email Dynamics

Stop using long, elaborate, brand-heavy emails. They get buried in an architect’s busy inbox.

Time for a change.

Imagine sending an email that’s so intriguing and concise it stands out amidst a sea of verbosity. That’s the essence of the 9-word email concept we’ll tailor to your business right now!

Reimagining Email Engagement

You might be saying…

“Can I really make an impact with 9 words?”

The answer lies in the art of crafting these short yet potent messages. Let’s delve into why this brevity is not just a gimmick but a powerful tool in your sales arsenal.

Who’s this Dean Jackson fella?

If you’ve never heard of him, you should look him up.

I first heard of Dean about 10 years ago when I found the “I Love Marketing” podcast he co-hosts with Joe Polish. I’ve lost count of how many “stupid-simple” marketing ideas I’ve learned from them (and their guests) in the past decade.

And Dean’s 9-word email is one of the simplest. And if you do it right, it can be one of the most effective.

Quick side note: Dean also invented the “squeeze page.” (It’s now called a landing page or opt-in page.) It’s a website page dedicated to collecting your name and email address.

Let’s see how you can make the 9-word email work for you.

Unveiling the 9-Word Wonders

Template #1: The Classic Inquiry – “Still looking for… ?”

This simple question template hits on a common need among architects. It gets them thinking about their current projects and how you could help.

Use case: Re-engage architects who have shown interest in your product. Encourage them to schedule a call or meeting to discuss further.

Example 9-word email for facade panels:

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Subject Line: Quick question about your project’s facade
Email Body: “Are you still looking for the perfect facade solution?”

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That’s it!!!

Do NOT add, “If so, reach out… blah, blah, blah.”

No company header.

No signature block.

ONLY those 9 words [you can go +/- 5 words].

Then hit SEND!

This email should be deliberately vague and open-ended to provoke curiosity and engagement. It reminds them of your previous interaction without being too pushy.

Here are a few variations on the email body:

Is finding the right facade material still on your radar?
Have you finalized the facade choice for your project?
Still searching for that standout facade solution?

Template #2: The Prompt for Action – “Would you like to get started…”

This variation is more direct and implies readiness and eagerness to engage. It’s ideal for architects who have already shown interest.

Use case: To prompt architects to take more immediate action or make decisions. These architects have shown clear interest and may be closer to the decision-making stage.

Example 9-word email for facade panels:

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Subject Line: Ready to elevate your project’s facade?
Email Body: “Would you like to get started with XYZ panels?”

~~~~~~

This template assumes some prior interest or discussion about your product’s specifics. It then nudges them toward commitment. It’s direct and implies that choosing your product is the next logical step.

A few variations:

Would you like to get started by ordering a sample?
Ready to explore our facade panels in more detail?
Would you like to get started with our free Design Assist service?

Template #3: The Exclusive Invitation – “Would you like to join us?”

This approach creates a sense of exclusivity and urgency. It encourages architects to be part of something special: a new product launch or a private event.

Use case: To make the architect feel you’re inviting them to be part of an exclusive group or opportunity.

Example 9-word email for facade panels:

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Subject Line: Invitation Only: Exclusive Showcase of Our Newest Facade Panels
Email Body: “Would you like to join us for a special product showcase?”

~~~~~~

This approach creates a sense of exclusivity and community. It makes it not just about the product. It’s also about joining a select group of professionals. They’re privy to the latest trends & offerings.

A few variations:

Would you like to join us for a product demo?
Would you like to join our facade innovation webinar?
Interested in joining our exclusive facade design workshop?

These three variations of the 9-word email have been proven to increase engagement rates… Leading to more productive interactions with architects.

I use them to reach out to past clients. And to prospects who have shown interest in how I can help them with their business.

Dean Jackson has been using it for years. I get several from him throughout the year. [One of these days, I’ll be ready to take him up on one of his offers.]

And that’s the thing! Even if I never have responded to one of his emails. One of these days might be the right time. And I appreciate the regular, short, simple reminders of how Dean could help me.

And you don’t know this particular architect’s design process for each project. Or, where they’re at in the always-moving design parade when your email hits their inbox…

Example of an architect’s design process

So, even if you miss the decision-making window for the first project they reached out about, your simple email could plug you into a new project at just the right time.

More Than Just Emails

What this shift means for you is a more efficient way of communicating that saves time and creates more meaningful connections. This strategy departs from the norm, focusing on quality & precision rather than volume & breadth.

This email should give you a new perspective on email communication:

Captivate architects with precise, thought-provoking emails.
Streamline your follow-up process, saving time & effort.
Foster deeper engagement & interest with every message.

Keep these key points in mind:

Simplicity can be striking.
Every word should serve a purpose.
Your emails can open doors to valuable conversations.

Adopt these succinct emailing techniques. They’ll transform how you connect with your ideal architect clients.

Watch as your email responses go from crickets to “Oh, yeah! I do need your help!”

Try it, and let me know how it goes for you!

Already know about the 9-word email and using it? I’d love to hear how it’s worked for you.

That’s all for this w–

“Wait, Neil! That’s great and all… but WTH do I say when they respond? Or… if they don’t?”

That’s a great question! And I’d planned to include that in this post, but it’s getting way too long. So, let’s cover that in next week’s post. Deal?

That’s all for this week!