Effective Intros Using the Forwardable Email
Make that Second Connection a First
First impressions can make or break an opportunity. Whether it's securing funding, finding a new job, or searching for a mentor, getting noticed can be tough. But what if you could leverage your existing network to cut through the noise? Enter the forwardable email: a simple yet powerful tool for making meaningful connections. Let's explore what it is, why it matters, and how to craft one that works.
What is a Forwardable Email?
A forwardable email is a message designed to be easily shared by the recipient with someone else in their network. Its primary goal is to facilitate a warm introduction between you and a desired contact. This approach builds trust by leveraging a mutual connection. Some tools such as Village exist to help search the tangled web of your network & that of those you know.
Let's say you're hoping to connect with a potential investor who's a second-degree contact on LinkedIn. You could ask your mutual connection for an introduction, but that places the burden on them to explain your background and the relevance of the connection. A forwardable email takes care of that by providing a polished message ready for them to hit "send."
Why I Use Forwardable Emails
Efficiency: Saves time for both you and the introducer.
Control: You frame the introduction in your own words, highlighting your key points you want to make and the reason for the connection.
Professionalism: Presents you in a polished and prepared manner.
The Basic Steps to Crafting a Forwardable Email
Subject Line: Make it clear, concise, and compelling. Include your name and the purpose of the email (e.g., Intro to [Your Name] - [Title] of [Your Company]).
Greeting: Briefly greet the person making the introduction.
Introduction: Introduce yourself and your company, focusing on your most relevant accomplishments or unique value proposition.
Reason for Connection: Briefly explain why you're seeking this introduction and the potential outcome.
Call to Action: Request a brief meeting or conversation. The goal is to set a meeting, not get a decision based on this email.
Closing: Proofread, thank them for their help, and send that email.
Example of a Forwardable Email
Subject: Intro to [Your Name] - Founder of [Your Company]
Hi [Introducer's Name],
I was hoping you could help me connect with [Target Person's Name] at [Target Person's Company].
I'm the founder of [Your Company], a [brief description of your company and its value proposition]. We have recently achieved [mention a significant achievement or milestone].
Can you pass this along to [Target Person's Name]? I would like to have a brief meeting with them to [explain your reason for wanting to connect].
Regards,
[Your Name]
More Tips:
Keep it concise: Aim for a maximum of 200-300 words.
Personalize: Tailor the message to the specific person you are trying to reach.
Proofread: Double-check for any errors before sending.
Avoid attachments when possible: Other than a resume, attachments can be too much information, use your judgement on what else you send.
On the reply, BCC the the introducer: They have successfully done their part, don’t spam their inbox. 🙂
Forwardable emails are a simple yet effective way to leverage your existing network and reach new connections. By making it easy for others to help you, you increase your chances of getting the introductions you need.
- M
Sources with more good examples:
How to write a forwardable introduction email by Alex Iskold
The forwardable email by Waseem Daher