want to give a high quality referral? try this!
picture this: you're in a coffee meeting and your conversation partner shares about a challenge they're facing in their business.
your problem-solving mind jumps into action and immediately thinks of someone they should meet who offers the solution they're seeking. you suggest it, they are excited to connect, and you take a note to reach out to the person you have in mind after the meeting.
when you do, that person gives you the greenlight for the connection, too. you make a three-way email introduction and feel good because those pleasure centers in your brain are lighting up. (that's the fun thing about being a giver, or more specifically, in this case, a thoughtful connector. it feels great and everyone wins! in fact, as counterintuitive as it might sound, studies support that the most 'successful' are also the most generous.)
you're likely already making these types of introductions (hooray!). in case it's helpful, i've laid out some email templates to support your process in making high-value introductions:
here's an email to send to the person who shared the need/problem (if you didn't already get verbal buy-in for the intro):
hi ___,
thanks for sharing with me about (their specific problem/need). i think i may have the perfect person to help with that! here's info on them (hyperlink their website). i know they do great work and are someone whom i trust.
i'd love to send an email/text/dm introduction if you are open to it.
please let me know and i'll do so asap!
your name
to the person whom they should meet:
hi ___,
i recently had a conversation with (name) about (a specific problem/need). they are (provide any important context). i instantly thought of you to help them out as i know you offer (any of their services)! would you be open to an introduction? if so, what's the best email address for me to send that?
thanks,
your name
after receiving consent from both parties, you can send an introduction email/text/dm like this:
hi there,
(link to person 1) meet (link to person 2). and (person 2) meet (person1).
i'm excited to introduce you both. as mentioned (person 1) is a (provide some context about their need and reason for the introduction, even if you repeat yourself a bit). and (person 2) is (share about why they're the person to help with this).
i'll leave you two to take it from here! let me know if there is anything i can do to further facilitate the connection.
your name
now, your job here is done and it's up to them to set up a meeting and keep you in the loop about what transpires.
now, whom can you connect next to keep the generosity-train (and reputation building) rolling?