CONNECTIONS
Make your next introduction count
A useful introduction starts with a clear reason to connect.
Start with a specific ask
“I’d love to expand my network” gives someone very little to work with. “I’m looking for a marketing leader at a growing company who has built a small team” gives them a direction. Before asking for an introduction, think about what you’re trying to learn, solve or move forward.
Make it easy to introduce you
Write two or three sentences someone can forward: who you are, what you’re working on and why the conversation would be useful. Keep it short. A good introduction should open the conversation without requiring someone to write your biography.
Ask before sharing contact information
Knowing two people does not automatically mean they want to be connected. Give each person enough context to decide, and ask permission before sharing their details. That small step shows respect for everyone’s time.
Follow through
When someone makes an introduction, respond, suggest a practical next step and thank them. After the conversation, let the person who introduced you know how it went. Relationships grow through what happens after the introduction.
Bring something to the conversation
A useful connection works both ways. You may have experience, a resource, an idea or another introduction to offer. You do not need an immediate transaction. You do need an interest in the person on the other side.