WHY ME. WHY THEM. WHY NOW.
Make a warm introduction worth accepting.
A warm introduction connects two people through someone who can explain why they should meet. A double opt in introduction adds a permission step: both people agree before they are connected.
What makes an introduction warm?
The value comes from relevant context and a credible relationship, not simply having a contact in a list. Explain how you know the people, what the requester hopes to accomplish, and why the conversation could help both sides. If you do not know someone well, say so rather than implying a stronger endorsement.
Ask Intros frames this context as Why me, Why them, and Why now. Review profiles and the purpose of the request before deciding whether to ask for, offer, or accept an introduction.
A practical double opt in workflow
First, describe one specific need and the person or type of expertise that could help. Second, give the connector a short explanation they can pass on. Third, ask each person privately whether the conversation is welcome. Only connect them after both agree. If either person declines, respect that decision and do not treat silence as consent.
After the introduction, agree on a manageable next step. A short conversation, a relevant resource, or an answer to one question is clearer than an open ended request to explore synergies. Record the next step so the conversation has a purpose after the first message.
A forwardable introduction request
Example request: “I am working on customer onboarding for a service business. I would value a short conversation with someone who has improved the handoff from sales to delivery. I can share what we have learned about measuring inquiry response times. Would you be comfortable asking whether this conversation would be useful?”
Example permission check: “Someone in my network is working on an onboarding problem that overlaps with your experience. They are asking for a brief exchange of practical lessons. Would you like an introduction? No problem if the timing is not right.” These are writing examples, not messages sent by Ask Intros.
Where Ask Intros fits
Use Ask Intros to describe a need, discover relevant member context, review introduction requests, and continue an accepted conversation. The available people and paths depend on the network and what members permit. A suggestion does not automatically contact someone or guarantee that they will accept.
Common questions
What is a double opt in introduction?
It is an introduction where both people are asked separately and agree before being connected. The connector explains the reason for the proposed conversation without assuming either person wants it.
Is an introduction the same as a referral?
An introduction opens a conversation. A referral may also include a recommendation or a specific business opportunity. Do not imply an endorsement, referral fee, or promised result unless the people involved have explicitly agreed to it.
Should I share private notes in the request?
Include only context you have permission to share and enough information to explain the purpose. Private relationship notes are not a substitute for consent to disclose someone else’s information.