Turning Email Introductions Into Actual Relationships

      

In my book about Netiquette ( listed below ) I have a great section on email Introductions. The article below also does a nice job with some of the basics.

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GABE LOZANO

APRIL 01, 2015 Entrepeneur.com

8 Tips for Turning Email Introductions Into Actual Relationships

If you're a budding entrepreneur, it's a lucky thing if an established, successful entrepreneur shows interest in being your mentor. One of the most important things a seasoned businessperson can do for you is to make introductions to fellow entrepreneurs who might be able to help you, the business hopeful, on your way. 

A first-time introduction can be a delicate dance that allows the introducer to size you up and see how you handle the interaction. If you make him or her look good, you'll most likely receive a stream of follow-on introductions -- a great start to building your professional network. But if you blow it, you’re unlikely to get a second chance.

Here, some tips for acting like a pro from the get-go and, consequently, receiving further introductions:

1. Respond to an introduction within minutes

World-class entrepreneurs always seem to be dialed in. If you can't respond quickly when selling yourself, one can only imagine how your communication habits are lacking during other, equally critical situations. Don't try to play it cool by waiting hours or days to respond. 

2. When the introducer requests information from you, respond promptly

I keep a running top 10 list encompassing my entire professional and personal life, and my priorities change daily. I’m not unique in that respect -- everyone’s priorities evolve, which means you have a limited window before falling out of someone's top 10.

If you’ve been offered an introduction, but they require more information from you before making it, it’s in your best interest to act quickly.

3. In your first reply, put your introducer in the bcc line

Nothing's worse than being cc’d in a back-and-forth thread, particularly as other parties firm up a meeting time. Clogging up someone’s inbox with irrelevant emails not only makes you look like an amateur but also wastes people’s time.

4. Proof your response before sending

Sloppy emails create a negative first impression. Demonstrating superior writing skills, however, is a great way to make yourself look professional and capable.

Related: Potential Referrals Are All Around You. Pay Attention

5. Be concise and specific

Introduce yourself, include a specific ask and provide any pertinent details -- all in a few sentences. Getting straight to the point demonstrates that you know how to be efficient.

6. If you’re offered a time to meet, take it

Remember that you’re the one selling -- not the other way around. Punting on meeting times demonstrates it's not a top priority for you and shouldn't be for them either. I skipped a party the night before my own wedding which resulted in my first investor check.

7. Don’t drop the damn ball

Remember that your reputation -- but also that of the person who stuck out his or her neck getting you the meeting in the first place -- is at stake. Be willing to go to extremes to follow through.

8. Follow up

Once there's something substantive to report, send an update email to the person who made the introduction. Maybe even say thanks. The update doesn’t have to be long, just a few sentences describing the outcome. A positive report will likely land you another introduction.

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 Good Netiquette And A Green Internet To All!

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In addition to this blog, Netiquette IQ has a website with great assets which are being added to on a regular basis. I have authored the premiere book on Netiquette, “Netiquette IQ - A Comprehensive Guide to Improve, Enhance and Add Power to Your Email". My new book, “You’re Hired! Super Charge Your Email Skills in 60 Minutes. . . And Get That Job!” will be published soon follow by a trilogy of books on Netiquette for young people. You can view my profile, reviews of the book and content excerpts at:

 www.amazon.com/author/paulbabicki

 If you would like to listen to experts in all aspects of Netiquette and communication, try my radio show on BlogtalkRadio  Additionally, I provide content for an online newsletter via paper.li. I have also established Netiquette discussion groups with Linkedin and Yahoo.  I am also a member of the International Business Etiquette and Protocol Group and Minding Manners among others. Further, I regularly consult for the Gerson Lehrman Group, a worldwide network of subject matter experts and have been a contributor to numerous blogs and publications. 

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