TIN #061 - Mastering the Art of Introductions in Networking
Creating Lasting Professional Relationships Through Introductions
Hello, fellow introverted networkers!
Today, we're talking about a crucial aspect of networking: introductions.
If you've followed my content, you know that networking doesn't have to involve awkward events or spammy emails.
Instead, it's about connecting with new people, and introductions are the golden ticket.
Networking isn't just about getting introduced; it's also about introducing others.
By introducing others, you give them something, making them more likely to reciprocate.
Understanding how to introduce people is vital, as it sets the stage for effective connections.
This issue takes about 5 minutes to read.
But Before We Get Started…
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Why Introductions Matter
In one of the previous issues, TIN #059 - How To Craft Personalized Networking Messages Like a Pro, I explained how to send emails or LinkedIn messages that get responses. This is one kind of introduction.
In this issue, I want to talk about a different kind of introduction.
The essence of networking lies in connecting with others who can help you and whom you can assist in return.
The key? Mastering introductions.
Imagine this scenario: You reconnect with an old friend, Bob.
He's facing a challenging problem at work, and you know someone, Susie, who can help. In fact, you’re pretty sure Susie has solved the same problem Bob is working on.
You offer to introduce them, and Bob agrees.
This is networking at its core—connecting people to grow your network.
In this scenario, you are giving Bob and introduction to Susie. Even though you are helping Bob out, you still need to successfully execute this introduction in order to create value for Bob.
I explained this scenario in my book, “The Fast And Easy Guide To Networking For Introverts,” but the highlights are in the next section.
The Art of Introducing
When introducing someone, here are key steps:
Set Expectations: Talk to the person you're introducing (e.g., Susie) first. Let her know you want to connect her with Bob and ask for her permission. This respects her time and privacy. It's essential to explain the context, such as Bob's situation and why the introduction is valuable.
Reconnect: If it's been a while since you spoke to Susie, reach out. Rekindle the connection and explain why you want to introduce her to Bob. Share insights about Bob's goals and why you believe they could collaborate effectively.
Seek Confirmation: Confirm that Susie is open to connecting with Bob. Sometimes, people are swamped with work, so they appreciate your consideration. Discuss a tentative timeframe for the introduction, ensuring it aligns with Susie's availability.
Make the Introduction: Once you have Susie's approval, send a brief email or LinkedIn message connecting Bob and Susie. Keep it simple and let them take it from there. Include a warm introduction that highlights their potential synergy and common goals.
Step Back: Your role is to facilitate the connection, not micromanage it. Let Bob and Susie handle the details. Check in occasionally to ensure everything is proceeding smoothly, but avoid becoming a middleman.
Follow-Up: After the introduction, circle back with both parties. Ask Bob and Susie how the interaction went and if there were any positive outcomes. Express your gratitude for their cooperation and support.
Both Bob and Susie get something out of this introduction: a new connection.
At first, Susie may be giving knowledge to Bob, but in the future, Bob is going to want to reciprocate and help Susie.
Now, that you know how to give introductions, let’s talk about being a good recipient of them.
Receiving Introductions
If someone is introducing you to a connection, show your appreciation by being easy to help:
Be open with your schedule. Provide multiple availability options to accommodate the other person's preferences.
Prepare for the initial meeting. Familiarize yourself with the contact's background, interests, and the specific reason for the introduction.
Implement any advice you receive from your contact. Show that you value their input by taking concrete steps to apply their suggestions.
Offer feedback on their advice. If you try their recommendations, report back on your experiences. Share what worked well and what you found challenging.
Communicate clearly if the connection isn't responsive. If your efforts to connect with the introduced contact don't yield a response, inform the person who made the introduction, so they can reassess or offer alternatives.
Remember, the impression you make during introductions can impact your future networking opportunities. If you are difficult to connect with or inconsiderate of the other person, the connection who introduced you may be hesitant to make future introductions.
Be respectful, considerate, and make the most of these valuable connections.
Getting introduced to someone new is the quickest way to expand your network and find new opportunities.
Follow these guidelines and you’ll be making new connections with ease.
As always, I'm here to help. If you have questions or want to discuss any networking topics, feel free to reach out.
Until next time, go out there and meet some interesting people!