- Keep it short and sweet, most people are email overloaded and don't have time to read the details

- Tell an amazing, interesting story about yourself and your idea

- Your email "Subject:" must be optimized for a click through, especially if you're hustling a CEO or busy exec. Make it attractive and craft it: it can't sound spammy, but it has to be out of the ordinary.

- Know your target; mention relevant facts and how they can help you

- Lead them to an actionable conclusion (call me, skype me, lets meet for coffee)

The ultimate objective of an email pitch isn't a the end goal (such as a hire, or investment) - it's getting that next-step phone call or meeting. Keep that in mind and you should be good!