Get All Access for $5/mo

8 Tips for Turning Email Introductions Into Actual Relationships Because you're going to need some help building your professional network.

By Gabe Lozano Edited by Dan Bova

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Shutterstock

If you're a budding entrepreneur, it's a lucky thing if an established, successful entrepreneur shows interest in being your mentor. One of the most important things a seasoned businessperson can do for you is to make introductions to fellow entrepreneurs who might be able to help you, the business hopeful, on your way.

A first-time introduction can be a delicate dance that allows the introducer to size you up and see how you handle the interaction. If you make him or her look good, you'll most likely receive a stream of follow-on introductions -- a great start to building your professional network. But if you blow it, you're unlikely to get a second chance.

Here, some tips for acting like a pro from the get-go and, consequently, receiving further introductions:

Related: How to Get a Job, Meet Influencers and Find a New BFF at Your Next Conference

1. Respond to an introduction within minutes

World-class entrepreneurs always seem to be dialed in. If you can't respond quickly when selling yourself, one can only imagine how your communication habits are lacking during other, equally critical situations. Don't try to play it cool by waiting hours or days to respond.

2. When the introducer requests information from you, respond promptly

I keep a running top 10 list encompassing my entire professional and personal life, and my priorities change daily. I'm not unique in that respect -- everyone's priorities evolve, which means you have a limited window before falling out of someone's top 10.

If you've been offered an introduction, but they require more information from you before making it, it's in your best interest to act quickly.

3. In your first reply, put your introducer in the bcc line

Nothing's worse than being cc'd in a back-and-forth thread, particularly as other parties firm up a meeting time. Clogging up someone's inbox with irrelevant emails not only makes you look like an amateur but also wastes people's time.

4. Proof your response before sending

Sloppy emails create a negative first impression. Demonstrating superior writing skills, however, is a great way to make yourself look professional and capable.

Related: Potential Referrals Are All Around You. Pay Attention

5. Be concise and specific

Introduce yourself, include a specific ask and provide any pertinent details -- all in a few sentences. Getting straight to the point demonstrates that you know how to be efficient.

6. If you're offered a time to meet, take it

Remember that you're the one selling -- not the other way around. Punting on meeting times demonstrates it's not a top priority for you and shouldn't be for them either. I skipped a party the night before my own wedding which resulted in my first investor check.

7. Don't drop the damn ball

Remember that your reputation -- but also that of the person who stuck out his or her neck getting you the meeting in the first place -- is at stake. Be willing to go to extremes to follow through.

8. Follow up

Once there's something substantive to report, send an update email to the person who made the introduction. Maybe even say thanks. The update doesn't have to be long, just a few sentences describing the outcome. A positive report will likely land you another introduction.

Related: 19 Ways To 'Kill It' at Your Next Networking Event

Gabe Lozano

Tech entrepreneur. Co-Founder, CEO of LockerDome. Co-Founder of GlobalHack.

Gabe Lozano heads LockerDome, a social media platform built around what you like, as opposed to who you know. More than 40 million people per month use LockerDome to discover, collect and engage around things they like with others who share the same passions. MarketWatch called LockerDome a “future Wall Street darling.” Forbes magazine named it a "2013 Sports Names You Need to Know.” And AdWeek declared the company “in the sweet spot of the digital revolution.” Lozano is also the co-founder of GlobalHack, a non-profit organization that hosts quarterly hackathons and product competitions to spur innovation and foster technology talent. Learn more at lockerdome.com and globlahack.org.

 

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Side Hustle

The Side Hustle He Started in His College Apartment Turned Into a $70,000-a-Month Income Stream — Then Earned Nearly $2 Million Last Year

Kyle Morrand and his college roommates loved playing retro video games — and the pastime would help launch his career.

Business News

New Southwest Airlines Major Investor Wants to Force Out CEO, Slams Company's 'Stubborn Unwillingness to Evolve'

Elliot Investment Management announced a $1.9 billion stake in the Dallas-based Southwest Airlines on Monday and is urging shareholders to vote for new leadership.

Science & Technology

Why We Shouldn't Fear AI in Education (and How to Use It Effectively)

Facing resistance to new technologies in the educational process is nothing new, and AI is no exception. Yet, this powerful tool is set to overcome these challenges and revolutionize education, preparing students and professionals for a future of unparalleled efficiency and personalized learning.

Business News

Elon Musk Threatens to Ban Employees from Using Apple Products, Says Will Lock Devices in 'Cages'

The Tesla founder sounded off on X following Apple's 2024 Worldwide Developer Conference on Monday.

Business News

Apple's AI Has a Catch — And It Could Help Boost Sales

Not every iPhone owner will get to use the new Apple Intelligence.