How long should a cold email reading time be?

For optimal engagement, the reading time for a cold email should typically be 30–45 seconds, translating to roughly 50–125 words. This length ensures the email is concise and respects the recipient’s time, making it more likely they’ll read it in full. Studies show that emails under 150 words generally have better response rates since they’re easily digestible and quickly convey the main point​.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

1. Subject line: Short and to the point—ideally 5–7 words.
2. Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself in a sentence or two, showing relevance to the recipient.
3. Value proposition: State the purpose and what’s in it for them, in 1–2 sentences.
4. Soft call to action: Keep it open-ended to invite engagement without being too forward.

Keeping the email within this time frame lets you capture attention without overwhelming the reader. For longer topics, it’s best to save details for a follow-up email or call, allowing the initial email to focus solely on sparking interest.