Introduction request scripts

An introduction request passes through the connector before it reaches the target. Write for the connector's decision first, then give the target enough context to judge whether the conversation is worth taking. A strong request names the person, explains why, includes a ready-to-send note, and leaves room for a refusal. The message becomes a handoff package. If the connector has to build the case or the target has to guess the ask, the request stalls before anyone talks.

Build the request

Open with a short, warm greeting and make the request quickly. The connector should understand who you want to meet, why you chose that person, and what you want them to do.

Address the greeting to the person you are asking to make the introduction, and keep it short and warm.¹ Make the request within the first two sentences.² Ask clearly for the introduction, explain in one or two sentences why you want to meet the target, and make the wording thoughtful and slightly flattering toward that person.³

Use this as the request email:

Hi [connector],

Could you introduce me to [target]?

I want to speak with [target] about [specific topic] because [why this person is a fit]. I can send a short note you can forward.

If this relationship is not the right fit for the request, no worries. Would you be comfortable making the introduction?

Thanks,
[requester]

The connector should see the purpose without searching through the message for it.

Give the connector a reason to forward

Make the reason specific to the target. Explain why you want this particular introduction,⁴ then state the purpose and value of the conversation.⁵ Frame the request as mutually beneficial⁶ and make the potential gain clear for the target, so the connector can see why forwarding the note would help that person.⁷

Use a sentence that connects the target's context to the conversation:

I want to speak with [target] about [topic] because [specific reason this target is relevant]. I think the conversation could help them [specific benefit or useful exchange].

Keep the reason concrete. A broad compliment gives the connector little to work with. A specific reason gives them language they can reuse when they forward the note.

Remove the work from the introduction

Make the request easy to act on before the connector agrees. Include the information they need, a profile link, and copy they can forward without rebuilding your message.

A profile link and a clear reason for the connection save the connector time and show that you have done the work.⁸ Pass along a forwardable template so the connector can send the introduction with little effort.⁹

Add this below the request email when useful:

Forwardable note

Hi [target],

[connector] suggested that we connect. I work on [brief description of your work], and I am reaching out because [specific reason for contacting this target]. I would like to compare notes about [topic].

Would you be open to a short conversation? If so, [next step].

Thanks,
[requester]
[contact details]

Give the connector an easy way to decline. The initial request should let them say they cannot help or do not want to help, while making clear that the introduction will not require substantial effort.¹⁰ If they agree, send the forwardable note promptly and stop adding background unless they ask for it.

Write for the target's decision

The forwarded message has a separate job. The target should understand who you are, why you are contacting them specifically, and what responding would involve.

Give the target enough information to decide whether a meeting is worthwhile, with a simple way to accept or decline.¹¹ An initial 15-minute introduction signals that you will use their time efficiently.¹² Keep the introduction email body to 90 to 150 words, use a clear call to action, and include a signature that identifies you without requiring a click.¹³

The target-facing note should answer these questions without making the reader infer the purpose:

• Why did this connector think we should speak?
• What do you want to discuss?
• Why might that discussion help me?
• What should I do if I am interested?

Use a low-pressure close such as, "Would you be open to a short conversation about [topic]?" Then give the target a simple response path. Keep the note focused on the conversation, with enough context to make the choice and no extra biography.

What not to do

These mistakes create friction at the handoff. Remove them before sending.

• Do not thank the connector for offering an introduction when they have not offered one, because the assumption can make them less likely to forward the email.¹⁴
• Do not leave the target guessing what action you want. Ambiguity can leave the recipient unsure what they are being asked to do.¹⁵
• Do not keep lines that perform no job in the request. Cut padding instead.¹⁶
• Do not fill the opening with pleasantries when the purpose is to ask for an introduction.¹⁷

Before sending, check that the connector can see why this target, forward the note without rewriting it, and decline without repairing the relationship. If any part is unclear, remove context until the ask, the reason, and the next step are plain.