One of my greatest joys in life—and in business—is introducing good people to other good people. It is, in fact, the generosity power move that can boost your career and I’ve witnessed the power of introductions for decades. As I write this, it’s only Wednesday, and I’ve already introduced six people. As the universe would have it, I’ve also been connected to six meaningful folks myself. Whether it’s a quick email intro, a chance conversation, or a thoughtful matchmaking moment, I genuinely light up when I can help bridge connections.
But let’s be honest—introductions don’t always go smoothly. Sometimes, they fall flat, fizzle out, or worse, feel forced. And I’ll be the first to admit: I’ve fumbled a few. Whether it was the wrong timing, tone, or fit, I’ve learned that introductions deserve more than a quick copy/paste.
Recently, someone I introduced responded with such grace, clarity, and care that it reminded me of a textbook response to an introduction. They embodied what I call stewardship of connection: approaching introductions with intention, care, and responsibility. This inspired this post.
So, what does it mean to be a good steward of an introduction? And how can we all do it a little better?
Stewardship Starts with Seeing the Value
Before you hit “send” on that intro email or suggest someone meet over coffee, pause and consider what introductions really are:
- Seeds of relationships – They can grow into collaboration, community, or mentorship.
- Open doors – Sometimes they lead to opportunities, resources, or inspiration.
- Trust transfers – When you make an introduction, you’re essentially saying, “I believe in both of you.” That trust is powerful—and fragile.
When we see introductions not as throwaway gestures but as purposeful, relationship-building acts, we naturally become more thoughtful in how we handle them.
Prepare with Purpose
Thoughtful introductions don’t just happen—they’re crafted.
- Know your people. Before you introduce two individuals, get clear on who they are, what they’re working on, and how they might actually connect.
- Clarify the context. Why this intro, right now? Is there a shared interest, a timely opportunity, or a common goal?
- Define the “why.” A strong introduction has a reason behind it—whether it’s a partnership potential, a creative collaboration, or simply mutual admiration.
Preparation isn’t about making things complicated—it’s about making them meaningful.
Make the Introduction Matter
Now comes the execution. Whether over email, in person, or via LinkedIn DMs, how you frame the introduction sets the tone.
- Be brief but bold. Give just enough context to spark curiosity. Mention what each person brings to the table and what makes them worth knowing.
- Use thoughtful language. Words matter. Be positive, respectful, and specific. Avoid overhyping or vague intros.
- Facilitate, then float. Once you’ve introduced yourself, take a step back. Let the connection take its own shape. Don’t hover. But stay accessible if support is needed.
Example:
Hi S! I hope you are having a great week. Thanks again for brainstorming about Traction, software, HR, and all the other things over coffee last week. My wheels are still spinning. I have a treasured colleague applying for the role you just listed.
M is one of the most resourceful, hardworking, and passionate professionals I know. She has a natural ability to build relationships, lead strategic initiatives, and secure funding through grants and partnerships. Her impact spans strategic planning, youth advocacy, and program development—always with a focus on innovation, decisions with head and heart, and community impact.
She is truly one of my favorite people to work with, as she has such a can-do/figure-it-out energy that is inspiring and contagious. As a bonus, she/her org has been a recipient of (the foundation’s) support for many years now, so they are familiar with her work, and she is familiar with theirs, their staff, and their style/culture.
Short, intentional, and leaves room for magic.
Follow Up When It Feels Right
Some introductions take off instantly. Others take time—or don’t go anywhere at all. That’s okay. If you’re invested in the connection, a thoughtful follow-up can go a long way:
- Encourage ongoing dialogue. If there’s momentum, celebrate it. Share a resource, ask how the meeting went, or suggest a next step.
- Stay curious. If the intro didn’t click, ask yourself why. Timing? Fit? Clarity? Every experience is a chance to refine your approach.
- Keep relationships warm. Even if this intro didn’t pan out, you never know what future connection may bloom.
Example:
Hello!
Thank you so much for the introductions, Kristi! It is so wonderful to e-meet all of you.
I am very excited about the position at your company and believe it would be a great fit. I am a mission-driven professional with a heart for nonprofits. I have experience in leading employee engagement initiatives for both a large organization of over 40,000 employees as well as for a smaller organization of just under 300 employees. I also have years of experience creating communications, resources, and training for all different audiences in an organization. I absolutely love helping leaders and teams thrive at work and supporting an organization by focusing on engagement efforts to help impact the organization’s goals and priorities.
I have attached my resume. Thank you so much for considering me for an internal referral!
Hope you have a wonderful week!
Thank you again,
-S
Lead with Stewardship
At the heart of every great introduction is a sense of stewardship—the belief that connections are valuable, delicate, and worth caring for.
- Responsibility: You’re not just passing names—you’re creating a moment of potential. Own it.
- Care: Take the time to craft something meaningful. Your effort will be felt.
- Accountability: Learn from the connections you make. Celebrate the wins, and grow from the misses.
Final Thoughts
Introductions are more than professional courtesies—they’re little acts of generosity. Done well, they can unlock possibility, purpose, and partnership.
So the next time you think, “These two should meet,” take a moment. Reflect on the why, craft the how, and follow through with care.
When we treat introductions as moments that matter, we become better connectors and better stewards of the communities we’re building.
Let’s keep cheering each other on, one good connection at a time.
