Three variants: email, flyer, and verbal (phone or in-person). IRBs expect recruitment to be truthful, non-coercive, and free of implied endorsement.
Subject: Research participants needed — [FILL IN: topic]
Dear [FILL IN],
My name is [FILL IN], and I am a [FILL IN: role] at [FILL IN: institution]. I am conducting a research study about [FILL IN] and am looking for participants who [FILL IN: inclusion criteria].
What is involved: [FILL IN]
Compensation: [FILL IN]
To participate or learn more: Reply to this email or contact [FILL IN].
This study has been reviewed and approved by the [FILL IN] IRB, protocol number [FILL IN].
[FILL IN: ATTENTION-GRABBING HEADLINE]
Researchers at [FILL IN] are looking for [FILL IN] to take part in a study about [FILL IN].
To learn more: Contact [FILL IN].
IRB Approved — Protocol #[FILL IN]
"Hello, my name is [FILL IN]. I am a [FILL IN] at [FILL IN]. I am contacting you because [FILL IN] and I am conducting a research study about [FILL IN].
The study involves [FILL IN] and would take about [FILL IN] of your time. Participation is completely voluntary — if you are not interested, there will be no consequences.
Would you like me to tell you more, or would you prefer not to participate?"