The Problem With “Blind Email Introductions” (And How to Network Better)
Raise your hand if you’ve ever opened your inbox to find yourself in a surprise email introduction. 🙋♀️
You know the kind:
“Hey you two! Thought you should connect!”
And suddenly you’re looped into a conversation with someone you’ve never met, for a reason that may or may not be clear, with the expectation that you’ll schedule a “quick coffee chat.”
First, let me say this:
The intention behind these introductions is usually good.
People want to help.
People want to connect others.
People want to open doors.
I love that.
But there’s a difference between making a thoughtful connection and creating an unexpected obligation.
When someone makes an introduction without asking first, it unintentionally puts pressure on the recipient.
Now the person receiving the email has a few options:
Say yes to a meeting they may not have time or capacity for
Feel uncomfortable saying no
Ignore the email completely and feel guilty about it later
Add another unread email to an already overflowing inbox
None of those outcomes are great.
And in a world where everyone is already stretched thin, protecting people’s time matters.
I believe one of the most underrated professional skills is making intentional introductions.
The best connectors aren’t the people making the most introductions.
They’re the people making the right introductions.
Before connecting two people, please check with the first connection if they have the bandwidth and then ask yourself:
Why are these two people connecting?
Is there mutual value?
Does this actually make sense for both parties?
Has either person expressed interest?
Do they realistically have bandwidth right now?
Those questions matter.
Because strong networking isn’t about collecting contacts.
It’s about building trust.
Next steps to connect:
✔️ Clearly explain why you’re connecting them
✔️ Share relevant context upfront
✔️ Include LinkedIn profiles or websites
✔️ Mention what each person does
✔️ Set expectations for the conversation
This eliminates confusion and respects everyone’s time.
One of the fastest ways to build trust in your network is by being thoughtful with people’s time, energy, and inbox space.
A well-made introduction can lead to partnerships, friendships, clients, collaborations, and opportunities.
Speaking of opportunities… If you want to make in-person connections, we highly recommend attend a Heels & Handshakes meeting. All of our meetings can be found here.