How to Introduce People on LinkedIn: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Introducing people on LinkedIn is an incredibly valuable skill that not only helps expand your network but also solidifies your reputation as someone who is well-connected and resourceful.

A well-crafted LinkedIn introduction can be the key to opening doors for others—and for yourself. Whether it’s a colleague, an industry leader, or a potential business partner, the right introduction can create opportunities for mutual growth and new projects. Let’s break down exactly how you can nail this.

Step 1: Know Who You’re Introducing—and Why

Before making an introduction, know both people well enough to confidently vouch for them. This means you need to understand each person’s professional background, what they do, and their immediate goals.

Here’s why this matters: LinkedIn is full of people, but not everyone is relevant to each other. Making introductions just because you can doesn’t add value—in fact, it can dilute your credibility. To be truly effective, you want to make introductions that align with both parties’ needs and potential synergies.

Example Scenario: If Person A is trying to break into the tech industry and Person B is a recruiter specializing in tech, that’s an introduction worth making. On the other hand, introducing someone from finance to a completely unrelated field without reason might not be productive.

For more ideas on how to craft standout LinkedIn profiles that attract introductions, visit our article on “86 LinkedIn Headline Examples That Will Actually Get You Noticed”.

Step 2: Always Get Permission First

Consent is crucial. Before making an introduction, reach out to both parties individually to gauge their interest. This prevents any uncomfortable situations where one party may not be open to the introduction. Plus, it shows that you respect both their time and their boundaries.

Here’s a message you could send:

“Hi [Name], I’d love to introduce you to [Other Name] because I think you have complementary skills and could really benefit from connecting. Are you open to it?”

Add an easy way for them to say no, like: “If now isn’t a good time or you’re not interested, no worries at all!” By allowing them an out, you make sure that both sides feel respected.

Step 3: Craft a Compelling, Brief Introduction

If they agree, it’s time to write the introduction. Here are the key components:

• Subject Line: “Introduction: [Name 1] meet [Name 2]”
• Opening: Start with why you’re making the introduction. This gives context and sets the stage.
• Who They Are: Provide a brief background on both individuals.
• Why They Should Connect: Highlight a shared interest, goal, or expertise. This should be short but insightful.
• Links to LinkedIn Profiles: Make it easy for them to click and check out each other’s work.
• Close It With an Action: Let them know you’re stepping back: “I’ll leave you two to continue the conversation.”

Example Message:

“Hi [Name 1] and [Name 2],
I wanted to introduce you both as I believe your expertise aligns perfectly. [Name 1] is a product lead focusing on [specific technology], and [Name 2], you’re working on some groundbreaking projects in [related field]. I think you’d find some great opportunities to exchange ideas and collaborate. Here are your profiles for easy reference: [LinkedIn Profile 1] and [LinkedIn Profile 2]. I’ll leave you both to continue from here. Let me know if there’s anything else I can do to support!”

Need help with writing compelling LinkedIn messages? You might find “Career Security in a Changing Job Market: 5 Strategies for the Modern Professional” helpful for finding the right tone in your professional communication.

Step 4: Timing is Everything—Be Strategic in Your Follow-Ups

If you don’t hear back after a few days, follow up—but make sure your follow-up adds value rather than feeling intrusive.

Instead of a generic, “Did you connect?” try this:

“Hi [Name], I wanted to follow up to see if there was anything more I could do to facilitate your connection with [Other Name]. I’d be happy to help coordinate a meeting or provide more context.”

This turns a potentially awkward follow-up into an offer for further support, positioning you as a thoughtful facilitator rather than just being nosy.

Step 5: Choosing Between LinkedIn Messaging and Email

LinkedIn messaging and email have different advantages. If both people are active on LinkedIn, a message is often best because it encourages an easy click-to-connect approach. On the other hand, if either party is a senior professional who prefers more formal communication, email might be better.

If you do use email, BCC both people so they can continue without feeling exposed. Make it easy for them to transition from introduction to private conversation.

Scenario Example: You might want to use email if introducing a C-level executive to a senior manager, but LinkedIn works well for a peer-to-peer introduction in similar industries. Adjust based on what you know about each person’s preferences.

Step 6: Don’t Overdo It—But Don’t Be Too Cautious Either

A lot of advice out there stresses being selective, but don’t let that turn into a fear of making introductions altogether. Sometimes, a connection that seems slightly outside of the box can lead to unexpected opportunities. The key is to identify a clear potential benefit for both sides, even if the connection isn’t an obvious fit.

Add an example to keep it practical: Maybe you introduced a writer and a product manager, and it turned into a collaboration on content strategy. Even if it’s less direct, shared values and projects can yield interesting results.

Step 7: Managing Rejection with Grace

Not every introduction will happen. Sometimes, one or both parties may not be interested. Respect this decision without making it awkward. A suggested response:

“Thanks for letting me know! Totally understand, and I’ll keep you both in mind for future opportunities that might be more aligned.”

This keeps the door open without forcing an uncomfortable interaction.

Step 8: Consider Cultural Norms

Networking styles and etiquette can vary greatly by culture. If one of the individuals is from a different cultural background, it’s wise to factor in their preferences. For instance, some cultures may value a more formal introduction or a slower-paced approach.

A helpful tip is to add a line like: “Feel free to suggest any format or timeline that works best for you both.” This demonstrates cultural sensitivity and makes both individuals more comfortable proceeding at their pace.

Step 9: Alternatives to Direct Introductions

Sometimes, a soft introduction can be a better move, particularly if one of the individuals is quite senior. Instead of directly introducing them, you can refer each person to some of the other’s work:

“Hey [Name], I think you might enjoy [Other Name]’s recent article on [topic]. If you find it valuable, let me know, and I’d be happy to introduce you both.”

This way, they already have some context, and you avoid placing either party in a situation they’re not ready for.

Real-Life Examples of LinkedIn Introductions

1. Mutual Connection Introduction
“Hi [Name 1] and [Name 2],
I believe you both have a lot in common professionally, especially in the area of [specific field]. [Name 1] has done some fantastic work in [specific expertise], and [Name 2], your current projects could definitely benefit from a fresh perspective. I’ll let you both continue from here!”

2. Industry Expert Introduction
“Hi [Name 1],
You’ve been sharing great content on [topic], and I wanted to introduce you to [Name 2], who is a thought leader in the space. I believe a connection between you two could lead to insightful discussions. Feel free to take it from here!”

3. Potential Collaboration Introduction
“Hi [Name 1] and [Name 2],
I thought of connecting you both because of your complementary expertise. [Name 1], your interest in [specific project] aligns with [Name 2]’s ongoing work. I think it could lead to a valuable exchange. I’ll leave you both to explore any potential collaboration.”

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Check out some of our top resources:

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