Give it, ask for it, follow up, and say thank you.

Part 1

Giving a referral

A good introduction is short, specific and welcome. Before you name someone, check that they want the introduction. Then describe the need clearly enough that the other person can recognize it when it arrives.

• Ask first. Check with the person before you share their name or contact details. A yes makes the introduction easier to keep.
• Describe the need. Say what the other person does and what kind of problem they solve. Match the need, not only the category of work.
• Write a short note. Two or three sentences: who they are, why they fit, and how to reach them.

Before you send it

• The person being introduced has agreed to it.
• The need fits in one sentence.
• Contact details are included only with permission.
• You have set a date to check back.

Part 2

Asking for a referral

Ask for a kind of person, not a list of names. A clear picture of the ideal introduction is easier to recognize than a request for "anyone you know."

• Describe the ideal introduction. Give one sentence that names the work and the situation it helps with.
• Make it easy to say yes. Offer a sentence the other person can forward as written, so the introduction does not need rewriting.
• Ask at the right time. Ask after someone has seen your work, not in the first minute of meeting them.

Part 3

Following up

An introduction is not finished when the email is sent. Following up tells the person who gave the referral what happened, and it sharpens the next one.

• Tell them you made the introduction. A short message the same week is enough.
• Ask how it went, once. Leave space for an honest answer, including "not yet" or "not a fit."
• Record the outcome. Note what worked and what did not, so the next referral starts with better information.

Part 4

Saying thank you

Thanks should be prompt, specific and sincere. It also tells the person that the referral was worth their trust.

• Thank within the week. The same day is better, when you can manage it.
• Name what it led to. If the work has not started, say what you are doing next.
• Return the favor when it fits. Look for a chance to introduce them in turn, without keeping score in public.