1. The subject line matters. Don't leave this blank, and don't write something vague like "introduction" or "pitch" or "idea" in the subject line. At least include your company name, but better yet include something that makes the email seem interesting to read.
2. Introduce yourself. Personalized emails go a lot farther than those sent from the marketing department. While attachments like resumes and press releases are sometimes appropriate, you should give a quick introduction to yourself at the beginning of an email. Your introduction should include the key details: who you are and why the recipient should know you.
3. Know your audience. Demonstrate some evidence in your email that you know who the recipient is. Make sure you are targeting the right person with the right message.