Relationship Building
How to ask for an introduction without making it awkward
Introductions are the currency of executive networks. How to ask clearly and make it easy for the other person to say yes.
World Golf Network1 min read
The takeaway
Be specific about who and why, make the introduction easy to forward, and always accept a no gracefully.
Be specific
“Do you know anyone in finance?” is hard to answer. “Do you know a CFO at a mid-sized manufacturer who has been through an acquisition?” is easy.
Specificity also shows you respect the other person's relationships.
Make it easy
Do the work for the person introducing you.
- Write a short paragraph they can forward.
- Explain why the conversation could be useful to both sides.
- Suggest a low-pressure next step.
Close the loop
Tell the introducer how it went. People introduce more often when they hear their introductions helped.
