LeadSpark AI

The Complete Sales Cadence Guide for 2026

Learn how to build multi-channel outreach sequences that convert. Includes templates, timing, and real examples.

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What is a Sales Cadence?

A sales cadence (also called a sequence) is a structured series of touchpoints across multiple channels over a set period of time. The goal is to maximize your chances of getting a response.

📧

Email

Primary channel for outreach

💼

LinkedIn

Social touchpoints

📞

Phone

Direct conversations

Sales Cadence Templates

Standard Outbound Cadence (14 days, 8 touches)

Best for: Cold outreach to new prospects

Day 1EmailPersonalized intro email
Day 2LinkedInConnection request
Day 4EmailFollow-up with value add
Day 6PhoneCall attempt + voicemail
Day 8EmailCase study or social proof
Day 10LinkedInInMail or DM
Day 12PhoneSecond call attempt
Day 14EmailBreakup email

Quick Cadence (7 days, 5 touches)

Best for: Time-sensitive offers or events

Day 1EmailIntro with urgency
Day 2PhoneCall attempt
Day 3EmailQuick follow-up
Day 5LinkedInDirect message
Day 7EmailFinal chance

Sales Cadence Best Practices

Timing

  • • Send emails Tuesday-Thursday
  • • Best times: 8-10 AM or 4-6 PM
  • • Space touches 2-3 days apart
  • • Don't exceed 12-14 days total

Personalization

  • • First email must be personalized
  • • Reference their company/role
  • • Use LinkedIn activity as context
  • • Avoid mass-blast templates

Channel Mix

  • • 60% email, 25% LinkedIn, 15% phone
  • • Match channel to buyer preference
  • • LinkedIn for executives
  • • Phone for urgent/high-value

Messaging

  • • Each touch should add value
  • • Vary your approach each email
  • • End with breakup email
  • • Keep messages under 100 words

The Personalization Problem

The #1 reason cadences fail: generic messaging

❌ Generic Message

"Hi {{firstName}}, I noticed you're in {{industry}}. We help companies like yours..."

Result: 1-2% reply rate

✓ Personalized Message

"Hi Sarah, loved your post about scaling SDR teams without burning out reps. The point about quality over quantity really resonated..."

Result: 10-15% reply rate

LeadSpark AI generates personalized icebreakers from LinkedIn activity so every touch in your cadence feels personal.

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Power Your Cadences With AI Personalization

Upload your leads, get unique icebreakers for each prospect. Import directly into your cadence tool.

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