An introduction email should explain why two people might benefit from meeting. It should also respect their time and contact information. A connection is more useful when both people understand the purpose and have agreed to it.

Ask before connecting

For a professional introduction, a brief permission check is often the best first step: “Would you be open to an introduction to someone working on a similar project?” Share enough context for the person to decide, but avoid forwarding private messages or personal details without permission. If someone declines or does not respond, do not treat silence as agreement. You can pass along publicly available information when appropriate, but that is different from placing someone into a new email conversation.

Keep the introduction balanced

Give each person one or two relevant sentences. Explain their work accurately and avoid inflated descriptions such as “the world's leading expert” unless there is a solid basis for the claim. State the connection rather than assuming they will discover it themselves.

Sample introduction after both people agree

Example to adapt
Subject: Introduction: [name one] and [name two] — community workshops Hi [name one] and [name two], Thank you both for being open to an introduction. [Name one] coordinates beginner workshops for [organization] and is exploring ways to make participant instructions clearer. [Name two] has been developing plain-language materials for a similar program at [organization]. I thought you might find it useful to compare approaches to [specific shared topic]. I will leave you to decide whether a short conversation or an exchange of examples would be helpful. Best, [your name]

Avoid assigning unpaid work

An introduction should not promise that one person will review a document, provide consulting, or solve a problem unless they have agreed. “I thought you might enjoy comparing approaches” is different from “She will rewrite your materials for you.” Keep the next step optional and proportionate.

Let the conversation move naturally

After making the connection, allow the two people to continue directly. They may remove you from later replies to reduce inbox traffic. Do not repeatedly ask whether they have met unless you have a practical role in the work. A successful introduction creates a clear opportunity, not an obligation to maintain a relationship on your schedule.

Make the next draft yours.

Adapt examples to your situation and verify names, details, and requirements before sharing.Suggest a correction →