Asking someone to introduce you to a person they know can feel like a big favour. In practice, most people are glad to help, as long as you make it easy for them. Here is a simple way to ask that respects their time and gives them everything they need.
1. Be clear about who you want to meet, and why
Before you write anything, decide exactly who you would like to be introduced to and what you hope to get from the conversation. “Someone at Larkspur Pictures” is vague. “Sam, who runs the development team at Larkspur Pictures, because I’d love to hear how they’re building their drama slate” is easy to act on.
If you don’t know the person’s name yet, it’s fine to ask your contact who the right person would be.
2. Remind them how you know each other
Open with a line that places you. People have lots of connections, and a quick reminder makes the rest of the message land:
We worked together on the Saltmarsh Films series a few years ago. I hope the new role is going well.
Only mention things you actually share. A real detail is far stronger than a vague compliment.
3. Say what you’re looking for in one sentence
Keep it short and specific:
I’m looking for a development producer role in scripted drama, ideally in London.
4. Make the ask, and make it easy to say no
Ask for one thing, and give them an easy way out. People are much more comfortable helping when they don’t feel cornered:
Would you be open to introducing me to Sam? Completely understand if it’s not a good time.
5. Offer a ready-made blurb
This is the step most people skip, and it makes the biggest difference. Write two or three sentences your contact can forward as they are, so they don’t have to describe you themselves:
Maya is a development executive with eight years in TV and film, most recently developing drama at an independent producer. She’s looking for a development producer role and would love to hear how your team works.
Putting it together
A complete message might look like this:
Hi Sophie, I hope the new series is going well. We worked together at Saltmarsh Films a few years ago. I’m looking for a development producer role in drama and saw you worked with Sam at Larkspur Pictures. Would you be open to introducing us? Happy to send a short note you can forward. Completely understand if it’s not a good time. Thanks either way!
It’s short, honest, specific and easy to say yes to.
Follow up once, then let it go
If you don’t hear back within a few days, a single friendly follow-up is fine:
Hi Sophie, just following up in case this got buried. A quick intro to Sam would mean a lot. Thanks either way!
After that, move on. Silence usually means busy, not unwilling, and you can always reconnect later.
Thank them, whatever happens
When someone makes an introduction, thank them straight away, and let them know how it went. People love hearing that their help made a difference, and it keeps the door open for the future.
Connext Work suggests what to ask each person in your network, drafts the message from how you know them, and, on Pro, can send a single follow-up for you and stop as soon as they reply.
