Here’s a proven outbound playbook inspired by top-performing Y Combinator startups that consistently generate millions in ARR—sometimes in just 90 days. The secret? Precision over volume.
1. Micro-Targeted Lists That Drive Messaging
Forget spray-and-pray email campaigns. Startups that win begin with ultra-specific prospect lists—10 to 100 names max. These are not generic lists scraped from LinkedIn Sales Navigator. Instead, think:
“Series A fintech founders who hired a Head of Compliance in the last 30 days.”
With tools like Clay, Apollo, or PhantomBuster, you can enrich and filter with laser precision.
Why it works: When your list is this specific, it inherently shapes the messaging. Relevance becomes automatic. Instead of “Hope you’re well,” it’s:
“Saw you just hired a compliance lead—here’s how we’re helping fintechs streamline onboarding audits.”
2. The Multi-Channel 1–2 Punch: LinkedIn + Email
Upload your curated list to LinkedIn and send manual, personalized connection requests—ideally from the founder or exec team.
As soon as a connection is accepted, follow up with a short, relevant DM.
At the same time, run a warm outbound email sequence—ideally hitting inboxes within 24–48 hours of the LinkedIn request.
This “double tap” significantly increases reply and meeting rates.
Example: Startups using this approach often see >40% response rates across sequences compared to <5% from cold mass outreach.
3. Founder-Led Content: Build Authority, Stay Top-of-Mind
Founders should post 4–5 times a week on LinkedIn. Not all promotional—mix in:
- Wins (e.g., “Just onboarded our 10th customer in fintech”)
- Learnings from customer calls
- Personal takes on industry trends
Why it works: Decision-makers you’re targeting are quietly watching. You’re building familiarity before your email or DM even lands.
4. Post-Engagement Outbound (a.k.a. “Engager” Lists)
Use PhantomBuster or Taplio to scrape users who like or comment on your LinkedIn posts. Enrich the data, match against your ICP, and launch a second round of highly contextual outreach:
“Saw you liked my post on reducing compliance overhead—thought this case study might resonate.”
This is warm outbound, fueled by engagement.
Final Thought: High-Relevance > High-Volume
This approach takes more upfront effort—tight list building, smart enrichment, contextual content—but yields real results: fewer crickets, more conversations, and significantly more closed deals.
Think less “spray-and-pray,” more “one-on-one.”