How do you ask for a LinkedIn connection for an introduction?

Asking for a LinkedIn connection for an introduction can feel awkward, but it’s an important networking skill that can open doors and lead to valuable opportunities. Here are some tips on how to successfully request an introduction on LinkedIn.

Why Ask for an Introduction?

There are several benefits to asking for an introduction on LinkedIn:

• It allows you to expand your network by connecting with 2nd- and 3rd-degree connections.
• An introduction gives you instant credibility and gets you past gatekeepers.
• You can access insights and advice from someone already connected to your target contact.
• It’s a low-pressure way to initiate a new relationship and open the door for future conversations.

In summary, asking for an introduction enables you to build relationships and create opportunities you may not have been able to on your own. It allows you to tap into the power of your extended network.

How to Ask for an Introduction

Here are some best practices for asking for a LinkedIn introduction:

1. Choose the Right Connector

Look for someone who has an existing relationship with your intended connection. Ideal connectors include:

• Former colleagues
• Shared connections (went to the same school, worked at the same company, etc.)
• People in the same industry or niche
• 2nd-degree connections (connections of your 1st-degree connections)

Avoid asking distant connections for introductions, as it may come across as insincere. Stick to people who likely know and have insights on the person you want to meet.

2. Customize Your Ask

Personalize your outreach instead of sending generic messages. Demonstrate you’ve done your homework on the connector, the intended connection, and why you want to connect. Explain how the introduction would be mutually beneficial.

For example:

“Hi [Connector’s name], I see that you and [intended connection] used to work at [company]. I would love to connect with [name] because I am extremely impressed with the work [he/she] did on [specific project]. I am currently working on [something related] and would value [his/her] insights. Do you think you could introduce me? I’m happy to provide any other background information needed.”

3. Offer Value

Communicate what you can offer the other party. Be clear on why you want to connect and how it will add value for them. Some examples include:

• “I have experience in [area] and would love to offer my insights.”
• “I’m working on [initiative] I thought might interest you.”
• “I came across an article I thought you’d find interesting and wanted to share.”

Position the introduction as a win-win rather than a one-sided ask. People are much more willing to make connections when there is mutual benefit.

4. Make It Easy to Say Yes

Reduce the effort required by the connector to facilitate an introduction. Offer to draft the email intro yourself for them to simply review and send.

For example:

“Hi [Connector’s name],

I’d love to connect with [name] to [discuss topic]. If you’re open to making an intro, I’m happy to put together a draft email for you to review and send if that’s easier. Just let me know if you need any other information from me. Thanks for considering!”

This takes the heavy lifting off the connector’s plate and is more likely to get a positive response.

5. Follow Up Politely

If you don’t hear back within a week, follow up to politely nudge your request back on their radar. But don’t harass connectors who never respond – they likely aren’t comfortable facilitating an introduction for some reason.

For example:

“Hi [name], I just wanted to follow up on my previous message asking if you might be able to connect me with [intended connection]. Completely understand if you’re not comfortable making an introduction! If you need any other info from me, just let me know. Thanks again for considering.”

What to Include in the Introduction

Once a connector agrees to facilitate an introduction, provide the details they need to make a warm, personalized connection between you and the intended recipient. Include:

• Background on how you know the connector and your relationship
• A short bio of yourself and your experience
• Context on why you want to connect with the recipient
• Any common connections, interests, or affiliations you share

Keep the initial intro concise but personable. Your goal is to demonstrate shared connections and spark the recipient’s interest in learning more about you.

Following Up After the Introduction

After receiving an email introduction, follow these next steps:

1. Thank the connector for facilitating the introduction.
2. Respond to the recipient by the next business day, referring to the context provided in the intro email.
3. Suggest a quick 20-30 minute phone call, coffee chat or LinkedIn message thread to become better acquainted.
4. On the call or chat, establish rapport, explain your shared connections, and discuss potential opportunities to help each other.
5. Offer to provide value first without asking for anything in return upfront.
6. Suggest keeping in touch via LinkedIn and potentially meeting again in the future.

The key is to move the new relationship forward and demonstrate you’d like to build an ongoing connection, not just ask for a one-time favor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Some key mistakes to avoid when asking for a LinkedIn introduction include:

• Making it all about yourself without explaining the value for them
• Asking for too much too soon before building rapport
• Not personalizing your ask and making it obvious you’re mass blasting requests
• Asking overly persistent follow-up messages if they don’t respond
• Forgetting to follow up after receiving the introduction

As long as you can avoid these missteps and follow the best practices outlined earlier, you should see a high success rate when requesting LinkedIn introductions.

Sample LinkedIn Introduction Request Templates

Use these templates as examples for crafting your own messages:

Casual Template

Hi [name], I hope you’re doing well!

I noticed you’re connected with [person’s name] and have worked together at [company]. I’ve been very impressed with [person’s] work on [project] and would love the opportunity to connect and potentially collaborate.

Would you feel comfortable introducing me? I’d be happy to provide any other background information to make the intro seamless on your end.

Either way, I appreciate you considering! Looking forward to staying in touch.

[Your name]

Formal Template

Dear [name],

I am reaching out because I see that you are connected with [person’s name] on LinkedIn. I have been following [his/her] work in [industry] closely as I am quite impressed with [his/her] expertise in [specific area].

I am currently working on [project] in my role as [position] at [company]. I believe there could be some great synergies between [person’s] work and my own efforts. I would greatly appreciate if you would be willing and able to facilitate an introduction between us.

Please let me know if you need any other information from me or if you have any other questions! I recognize this is an imposition on your time and am grateful for your consideration.

Best regards,

[Your name]

Referral Template

Hi [connector’s name],

I hope you’ve been well! I wanted to reach out because I noticed you’re connected with [name] here on LinkedIn. I’m very impressed with [his/her] background and experience in [area], especially [specific project/company].

[Optional: You and I connected a few years ago when we were both working at [company], and I’ve always valued your perspective on the industry.]

I’m currently working on [initiative] that could benefit from [name’s] expertise in [area]. Would you be open to introducing us? I’d be happy to draft a short email for you to review and send if that makes it easier.

Please let me know if you’d be willing to make the connection. I appreciate you considering and hope we can catch up more soon.

Best,

[Your name]

Best Practices Summary Table

Conclusion

Asking for LinkedIn introductions can feel uncomfortable, but it’s an invaluable networking skill. By choosing the right connectors, personalizing your outreach, offering value, and making the process easy, you can increase your chances of successfully connecting with new contacts. This allows you to build relationships, develop opportunities, and grow your professional network.

Keep these best practices in mind as you become more proactive about asking for introductions. With the right approach, most people are happy to make connections that will mutually benefit both parties.