Email introduction request template: ask a contact for an intro

An email introduction request asks someone you know to introduce you to someone you do not. It works best when you make the favor tiny: say exactly who you want to meet, why, and give the contact a short blurb they can forward. A warm introduction can get more attention than a cold email, and it should cost your contact almost no effort.

When to use it

Use it when someone you know, such as a customer, a former colleague or a peer, is connected to someone you want to reach. Only ask if the relationship is real enough for them to vouch for you.

The template

Subject: Would you introduce me to (target name) at (company)? Hi (contact first name), I saw that you know (target name), (their title) at (company). I would like to talk with them about (specific topic) because (one line on why it is relevant to them, not to you). Would you be comfortable making a short introduction? To make it easy, here is a blurb you can forward: "(target name), meet (your name). (Your name) works on (what you do in one line) and would like to talk to you about (topic). A short call or a reply is all they ask." If you would rather not, I completely understand. Thank you either way. (your name)

Why it works

• The contact can say yes with one forward, or decline safely.

Two variations

For a customer or someone who knows your work:

Hi (contact first name), would you be open to introducing me to (target name) at (company)? You have seen how we helped with (specific result for them), and I think (target name) faces the same challenge. A two-line note from you would be enough.

When the connection is loose:

Hi (contact first name), I plan to write to (target name) about (topic). Is there anything I should know first, and may I mention that we both know you?

What to check before you send

1. The contact really knows the target. Check LinkedIn by hand, where you can see shared connections.
2. You have given the contact a reason that helps the target, not just you.
3. You give the contact an easy no.
4. Once introduced, you reply promptly and thank both people. If you email the target directly, the US CAN-SPAM Act has no exception for business email. GDPR and CASL exist for people in those regions.

Mistakes to avoid

• Asking someone you barely know.
• Not thanking them once it is made.

How Rodok helps

Rodok helps you decide whom to ask for and why. A tracker looks for the signal you describe, such as a new head of sales or a hiring push, and fills in the person's company, website and LinkedIn page. You can then look at your own network by hand for a shared connection. If there is no one to ask, AI writes a first line for a direct email that you review first. The social selling guide covers using your network.

Frequently asked questions

How do I ask for an introduction without being pushy?

Make the request small, give the contact an easy way to decline and provide a blurb they can forward.

Should I write the introduction for them?

Yes. A short blurb saves your contact time and keeps the story accurate.

What if the contact says no?

Accept it kindly. You can still write to the target directly with a relevant first line, and not mention the contact.