A warm introduction, without the awkwardness

An introduction is a small act of trust. Check that both people want it before you connect them.

Ask the first person

Hey [name] — I know a founder working on [brief context]. They’re hoping to speak with someone about [specific topic]. Your experience with [relevant connection] came to mind. Would you be open to an introduction? Completely fine if timing isn’t right.

Get a forwardable note

Ask the founder for a short paragraph: who they are, what they’re building, why this conversation is relevant, and the specific ask. Don’t add private information they haven’t agreed to share.

Make the introduction after both say yes

[Name], meet [founder]. [One sentence of context.]

[Founder], meet [name]. [Why their experience is relevant.]

You both mentioned being open to talking about [topic], so connecting you here. I’ll let you take it from here.

Close the loop

The founder should follow up promptly. The connector doesn’t need to chase the conversation. A short thank-you and an update later are enough.

This works for customer, hiring, peer, and investor introductions. Being introduced does not imply an endorsement or promise of an outcome.