While at a recent conference, I had the opportunity to meet some great folks, get to know them, what makes them tick and what they are doing for business these days. I’m always amazed at how much some folks (yes, I’m looking at you .. you know who you are) just love to talk about themselves. After all, that is part of the game, right?
Upon arriving back in Vermont, I realized that a couple of folks that I met at “Conference A” could use a solid introduction to do awesome work with a few people from “Conference B.” So let’s make an introduction!
Is it Cool to ….?
First, always make sure that both parties are fine with an introduction. If you are overbooked week after week, the last thing you really want is an introduction to another potential client, or worse, someone who “wants to pick your brain.” Here’s a general email that I send out to make sure that they really are OK with an e-introduction (and keep in mind that I tend be on the casual side of communication):
Subject: Can I Introduce You to…
Body:
Hi <insert name>-
I just wanted to drop you a line to re-connect after the <insert conference name>. I had a great time chatting and thanks for
One of my contacts, <Jane Doe> is looking for an introduction, as she is looking for sage advice regarding <XYZ>. Since time is money, and both are in short supply these days, I wanted to make sure that it’s cool with you to make an introduction via email. No hard feelings if you’re not interested!
Have a great day!!
Denise
Screen Them!
If someone is asking you for an introduction, and you don’t know them well, they seem questionable at best, or if they are looking to talk to your superstar client, be wary. You don’t need to say “Yes!” and feel free to employ the “Power of No!” that I’ve written about a time or two. While it’s great to think everyone is honest, sometimes in business, that is not the case.
Sure!
If someone does agree to the e-Introduction, keep it simple, straight forward and honest. Again, here is generally something I will send out to connect both parties (and again, keep in mind my informal tendencies).
Subject: Sally Meet Harry, Harry Meet Sally
Body:
Hi Sally and Harry-
As promised, I wanted to introduce you to each other, so without further adieu…
Harry, meet Sally from XYZ Corp .. Sally, meet Harry from SJK Corp.
Sally, I’ve known Harry for <X> years and he’s great because <insert a truthful, honest reason>. Harry, you’ll like Sally’s passion for getting things done and she’s looking to connect with your because of her interest in <insert>.
Don’t abuse each other and connect and learn from each other.
Have a great day!!
Denise
While it’s entirely up to you whether you follow up to see if the relationship progresses beyond the introduction, I have the tendency to do so. It keeps me connected with both people and it helps identify who is looking for connections versus those who are looking for name droppers. If you’re really looking to connect, then there needs to be dialog .. not a one email interaction.
Remember, especially all of my introverted leaders out there, having a diverse quality network is important for you and your business. By helping someone else connect the dots, you are paying it forward .. and at the end of the day, it’s all good 🙂
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