Cold email sequence for training & development — 45% response rate
7 steps over 40 days. 5 emails, 1 phone call, 1 LinkedIn message. 275 prospects contacted.
Charles Perret
Founder of devlo.ch · March 2026
The 7 keys in the sequence
5 emails, 1 phone call, 1 LinkedIn message — over 40 days.
Why this sequence works
With 275 prospects contacted and a 45% response rate over 40 days, this campaign is a model of efficiency in the training sector. The 73% open rate confirms that the email subject lines are well tailored to L&D professionals.
Being ranked among the "Top 20 companies in leadership training" lends immediate credibility. For a training manager, this recognition from Training Industry sends a strong signal. It is introduced in Touch #2 to maintain interest following the initial email that establishes contact.
The call script for Touch #4 is remarkably detailed, featuring decision trees for every scenario — interested prospect, wrong contact person, no time. This meticulous preparation explains the high conversion rate: the sales representative leaves no objection unanswered.
What you can learn from this campaign
- Use sector-specific insights. Training Industry’s Top 20 ranking is an irrefutable selling point for L&D buyers;
- Prepare a detailed call script. The cold call decision tree covers every possible scenario.
- Please provide the contact details of the colleague, including their first and last names. Naming two specific colleagues encourages a more detailed response than a generic "someone else".
- Share case studies at the end of the lesson. The case studies in Touch #6 offer a final chance to make a convincing case with concrete evidence.
When to use this sequence
L&D training providers;
You offer leadership development, communication skills or management training. The model is directly applicable.
Targeting multinational L&D leaders
Training decision-makers in companies operating in over 30 countries are your ideal target audience.
Blended learning solutions
If your programme combines face-to-face, virtual and digital learning, this section highlights this flexibility.
Sales of services in French-speaking Switzerland
The multilingual context (DE/FR/EN) and local presence are key selling points in the campaign.
Who can use this sequence?
Accredited training organisations
If you have a proven track record in leadership development or management training.
SDRs targeting L&D professionals;
The detailed call script and objection handling techniques are ready to use.
Digital learning platforms
If your package combines digital modules and face-to-face training.
Educational content publishers
Adapt the sequence to suit your own e-learning solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to call an L&D manager?
Test several calling windows around the audience’s time zone and actual schedule. In this sequence, the call comes at Touch #4 after three emails; compare that placement with other variants before treating it as a rule.
How can the cost of an L&D training course be justified?
The sequence gets round this objection by first proposing a non-binding exchange of best practices. The price is not discussed during the sequence, but rather during the discovery call. The key: Touch #2 highlights case studies that demonstrate the training’s ROI, which sets the stage for the budget discussion.
How can I adapt this sequence to my sector?
Replace "Top 20 in leadership training" with your own industry recognition. Adapt the case studies (Touch #6) to your industry. Keep the structure and timing exactly the same — they have been optimised across 275 mailings. The LinkedIn proposal for Touch #7 should come from your company’s CEO to maximise credibility.
Want a customised sequence for your industry?
devlo designs and executes bespoke B2B cold email campaigns. ICP, buying signals, multi-channel sequences — we take care of everything.
Last updated: March 2026
