@gmail.com or @firstchair.com - Thoughts on email domains

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by a searcher from Brigham Young University
in Highland, UT, USA

2yrs ago

@gmail.com or @firstchair.com - Thoughts on email domains

I've heard different opinions on using my personal redacted email or using a customized domain like redacted 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.

1 Like

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reply by a searcher 2yrs ago
from Brigham Young University in Highland, UT, USA

Thanks for the comments, everyone. Super helpful. The barrier to setting one up certainly hasn't been the time, cost, or effort of creating it, I know that's simple. I actually had a few people share thoughts similar to what @dan strickland shared about coming across less professional and more personal, which is what many sellers are more comfortable with.

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.

reply by a searcher 1yr ago
from Arizona State University in Salt Lake City, UT, USA

I would typically say use the professional email address. However, there is something to be said for the regular gmail address. Gmail addresses can make you come across as a normal person which can be important if you want to be seen as relatable. The gmail address can give the impression you're not a PE-backed firm (who will come in with a 5-6x multiple with full cash type of thing.) I'd say do some A/B testing and see if you can tell any difference in response rate. I would guess there wouldn't be too much difference.