We’ve all gotten a request, whether through email or social media: Will you put me in touch with someone in your network? A common impulse is to shoot off a quick email introduction addressed to both parties. But that’s not the best way to maintain your relationships.
Remember, when you make an introduction you not simply connecting two people. You are voicing for them and putting your reputation on the line. To make sure things work out best for all parties, try the following:
- Reach out to both people individually first. Ask the person requesting the introduction why they want to be connected.
- Send an email to your contact, asking for permission to make the introduction. Include the information from the requester, but add your own context: how you know the person and what your contact might gain from the connection.
- If both parties are enthusiastic, you can send a simple email putting them in touch. This method will make both their jobs easier and the introduction more valuable.
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