How to respond to an introduction email
Someone has introduced you by email. The polite thing to do is reply within a day. Thank the person who made the introduction, move them to BCC so they aren't copied on every reply that follows, and suggest a next step.
Here's how that looks.
How to respond to an introduction email: 6 to copy
1. Standard reply
Subject: Re: Intro: [Name A] <> [Name B]
Thanks, [Introducer]! (Moving you to BCC.) Hi [Name], Great to meet you. I'd love to hear more about [topic]. Are you free for a 20-minute call next week? I'm available [two or three time slots], or you can grab a time here: [link]. Best, [Your name]
2. You were the one who asked for the intro
Subject: Re: Intro
Thank you, [Introducer], I really appreciate it. Moving you to BCC. Hi [Name], Thanks for being open to chatting. As [Introducer] mentioned, I'm working on [topic] and would really value your take on [specific question]. Would [day/time] work for a quick call? Happy to work around your schedule. [Your name]
3. Short
Subject: Re: Intro
Thanks [Introducer]! (to BCC) [Name], lovely to meet you. When's good for a quick call? [Your name]
4. Not interested right now
Subject: Re: Intro
Thanks for thinking of me, [Introducer]. Hi [Name], nice to meet you. I'm not looking at [topic] right now, but I'll keep your details and reach out if that changes. All the best, [Your name]
5. Suggesting someone else
Subject: Re: Intro
Thanks, [Introducer]! (Moving you to BCC.) Hi [Name], Great to meet you. I think my colleague [Colleague] is the best person for [topic], so I've copied them here. [Colleague], over to you! [Your name]
6. Thank the introducer afterwards
Subject: Thanks for the intro to [Name]
Hi [Introducer], Just wanted to let you know that [Name] and I had a great call. We're [next step]. Thanks again for connecting us! [Your name]
Etiquette in four points
- Reply within 24 hours, whoever asked for the intro.
- Thank the introducer in the first line, then move them to BCC.
- Offer specific times or a booking link.
- Close the loop later with a quick thank-you to the introducer.
Frequently asked questions
Should I reply all to an introduction email?
Reply to all once, thank the introducer, and move them to BCC so they don't receive the scheduling back-and-forth.
Who should reply first to an introduction email?
Usually the person who asked for or benefits most from the introduction. If you're not sure, just reply first. It's never wrong.