Make thoughtful referral introductions

The opportunity

Connect people who can help each other without sharing contacts unexpectedly.

Best for: Founders, creators and moderators building a relevant community

Goal: Community

Gather your field kit

• Relevant community or channel
• Moderation guidelines
• Simple activity log

Make it happen

1. Identify a specific mutual reason for an introduction
2. Ask each person separately whether they want it
3. Explain any business interest or referral arrangement
4. Write a short introduction with relevant context
5. Let recipients choose the next step
6. Follow up once only if appropriate

A ready-to-adapt example

Illustrative template. Replace the details with your own verified information.

Start smaller than you think

Run one small version of “Make thoughtful referral introductions” with five relevant participants or one limited publication. Record the questions, responses and completion of the intended next step before expanding.

What to measure

• Helpful replies
• Returning participants
• Useful next actions completed

Watch out for

• Treating every discussion as a sales opportunity
• Counting reactions without checking usefulness

Permissions & trust

Respect community rules and participant privacy. Disclose affiliations, incentives and commercial relationships; do not automate unsolicited engagement.

Your next action

Start with this first step: Identify a specific mutual reason for an introduction. Set a review date before increasing the budget.