I've heard different opinions on using my personal --@----.com email or using a customized domain like --@----.com for outreach to sellers, brokers, and others.
I'm not sure that it matters too much, but I'd be curious to hear what pros and cons you've seen to either strategy.
@gmail.com or @firstchair.com - Thoughts on email domains
by a searcher from Brigham Young University
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The approach of "I'm just a guy looking to buy a single company and continue to build on the legacy that you've built", as opposed to, "I'm going to scoop up your business, add it to my portfolio, then sell them all in a few years when the price is right."
I think the counter point to that, which I find logical is that brokers are getting hit up by hundreds of tire kickers who are just window shopping in their spare time, so having a custom email shows them you're a more serious buyer.
I'm leaning towards setting one up for that reason, but really appreciate all of the valuable feedback.
Gmail will get you majority of the way so long as you're a professional, show your work, and can convey empathy. IME, too many search funders are robots and their comms reek of button downs and patagonia vests.
I used my personal gmail for the first 3-4 months of my effort and was able to connect with 2/3s of brokers & intermediaries I reached out to. Mainly by being human, being succinct with an explicit ask, and showing (not telling) that I've done my homework/research.
Admittedly, I did stand up a professional domain to knock down remaining 1/3 of hold-outs. But, I routinely switch between the two (depending on my audience).
I still routinely keep up with brokers but have shifted more of my effort to direct owner outreach -- and can confidently say there is a mild allergy to the overly buttoned up searcher who just senses a culture clash from a the otherside of the inbox.