Connecting others is a fantastic way to strengthen your network. Whether it is to connect a friend with an employer, a professional with a mentor, or simply peers working in the same discipline, you can always connect them via Email.
When you introduce two people, you usually set a tone and preface for their future communications, so it’s important that you do it right.
Common Etiquettes
1. Double Opt-in Intros
As a common courtesy, you are expected to gain approval from both parties before introducing them. Go ahead and ask if they’re really interested in meeting the other and whether it’s worthwhile. Asking these questions will definitely help you understand what moves you should make. This process is known as the Double Opt-in Intro.
2. Seek Permissions
Before moving to introductions, seek permissions from the person your connection is willing to meet. Start by sending them a mail that provides context for the introduction and mentions why the introduction is a good plan to pursue.
While you’re at it, seek permissions from both prospects in separate emails. Here’s an example of such an email.
3. Ask for a Blurb
When a person asks you to introduce them to someone, ask them to write a short blurb and share it with you.
A blurb is usually a short introductory text/pitch that introduces your subject and portrays why they’re appropriate for the introduction.
Upon receiving it, copy-paste the blurb into your email, add your approval and send the mail!
Instructions on Writing an Introduction Mail
Introducing someone is quite simple, and there are many ways of doing it. Here are some steps to ensure that you do it right.
1. Short & Precise Subject Line
Declare the intention of your mail in the subject line as clearly and concisely as possible. You can do so by starting the subject line with ‘Intro’ or ‘Introduction’ to make it absolutely clear. Mention the people’s names followed by their company names (if they’re representing a company), for example, Introduction: Tim (Reversely) Meet Pam (Minty LLC) or Intro: Tim x Pam. This line goes on to provide context for the respective mail.
2. Learn the Differences Between To & CC
It’s important to understand the differences between the recipient sections to properly address your recipients. Suppose Mr. X is the person requesting an introduction, whereas Mr. Y is the person to introduce.
Ideally, you are expected to place Mr. X’s mail in the To section and Mr. Y’s mail address in the CC section.
However, if you’re the person taking the initiative to introduce them, you may address them both in the To section.
3. Begin with Greetings
Start with a greeting that fits your mail. If one of the two is interested in being introduced to the other, begin by greeting the person to whom your connection wishes to be introduced.
For example, Hi Tim…
If however, you are the one initiating the e-meet, you could refer to both of them in your greetings line.
For example, Hi Tim & Pam…
3. Begin with Greetings
Start with a greeting that fits your mail. If one of the two is interested in being introduced to the other, begin by greeting the person to whom your connection wishes to be introduced.
For example, Hi Tim…
If however, you are the one initiating the e-meet, you could refer to both of them in your greetings line.
For example, Hi Tim & Pam…
4. Add an Opening Sentence
Avoid cliches like “I hope this mail finds you well”. These sentences often feel impersonal and unthoughtful. Even if you could use it, it’s better to come up with something more personal and considerate to break the ice. If you’re feeling stuck, check this list of opening lines for email. 5.
5. Introduce Your Connections
It’s time you introduced the two over mail, making sure to touch up on the following factors –
- Who they are
- How you know them
- Reason they should meet
Use kind and delicate words to describe both parties. If you are the one initiating the connection in the first place, start the introduction with the less senior person.
6. Include CTA
After introducing your connections, it’s now time to include a CTA (call to action). This will help create a direction for the conversation and help arrive at desired outcomes. Suggest the next steps for their meeting. For instance, “Tim, perhaps you’d like to meet Pam over a cup of tea and discuss the future scope of work?” or “Tim, would you let Pam know a good time to come in?”
7. Take Your Leave
Once you’ve facilitated the introduction, it is time for you to take a leave. Let them know how delighted you are to connect with the prospects. For example, “A great thanks to the both of you for taking time out of your busy schedule to connect. It’s a great pleasure to watch two maestros like yourselves getting together overwork”.
You can pull out simply by using sentences like, “I’ll let you take it from here”, “I’ll take my leave if it’s alright”, or “Feel free to move me to Bcc in your upcoming conversations”.
Here are a few examples for you to Get Started with.
Tips to Introducing People Over Mail
Here are some tips to introduce people over the mail and create meaningful connections.
- Give them a heads-up. Seeking approval from both parties shows that you are aware of and respect their time, comfort level, and privacy.
- Be cautious when sharing sensitive information like phone numbers.
- Choose your connections well. Introduce people you are comfortable introducing, and gently decline when you’re unsure.
- You can apply this mail introduction style on other platforms like social media, business networking sites & online marketplaces.
