Before Making an Email Introduction, Ask Permission

We’ve all gotten an email request like this: “Will you put me in touch with someone in your network?” A common impulse is to shoot off a quick email introduction addressed to both parties. But that’s not the best way to maintain your relationships.

Instead, reach out to both people individually first. Ask the person requesting the introduction why she wants to be connected. Then send an email to your contact, asking for permission to make the introduction. Include the information from the requester, but add your own context: how you know the person and what your contact might gain from the connection. If both parties are enthusiastic, you can send an email putting them in touch.