How to reply to an introduction email connecting you to someone

Updated November 12, 2026

Reply within a day or two. Thank the person who made the introduction, move them to bcc, and write to the new contact directly. Say what you can offer and suggest one next step with a time. If the match isn't right for you, tell the introducer kindly instead of ignoring it.

Reply: Within 1 to 2 days. The introducer spent their own goodwill on this. A prompt reply shows you value it, and it keeps the new contact's interest fresh.

What your reply should say

Thank the introducer by name and move them to bcc so their inbox isn't flooded.
Greet the new contact and say in one line why you're glad to connect.
Offer one concrete next step: a call, a time window or a specific question.
Share a link or one sentence about your work so they can prepare.

3 replies you can copy

Pick the one that matches what you want to say, copy it, and change everything in [brackets].

1Take it forward

You're glad about the introduction and want to schedule a conversation.

Subject Re: Intro: [Person A] and [Person B]

Thanks, [Introducer]. Moving you to bcc so your inbox stays quiet.

Hi [New contact], nice to meet you. [Introducer] said you're working on [topic], which I know something about.

Could we do a 20-minute call next week? I'm free on [option 1] or [option 2]. Tell me what you'd like to cover, and I'll come prepared with a few thoughts and examples.

Best,
[Your name]

2Ask for context first

You're not sure what the new contact wants from you.

Subject Re: Intro: [Person A] and [Person B]

Thanks, [Introducer]. Moving you to bcc.

Hi [New contact], good to meet you. Before we set up a call, could you tell me a little about what you're hoping to get out of it? That will help me prepare and make sure I'm really the right person to talk to.

If I'm not, I'll gladly point you to someone who is.

Best,
[Your name]

3Pass politely

You can't take the meeting or it's not a fit.

Subject Re: Intro: [Person A] and [Person B]

Hi [Introducer] and [New contact],

Thank you for the introduction. [New contact], it's nice to meet you by email.

I'm at capacity right now and wouldn't give you the attention you deserve. I'd suggest [alternative person or resource] as a better starting point. I wish you well with [their goal].

Best,
[Your name]

Already late? Send this instead

For when you are a week or two late or more. Own the delay in one line, then do the job.

Subject Re: Intro: [Person A] and [Person B]

Thanks, [Introducer]. Moving you to bcc, and I'm sorry for the delay.

Hi [New contact], I owe you an apology for the slow reply to this introduction. I'd still like to talk about [topic]. Are you free on [option 1] or [option 2]? If your needs have changed since [Introducer] wrote, tell me and I'll adjust.

Best,
[Your name]

Mistakes to avoid

Hitting reply all for the whole conversation and leaving the introducer buried in logistics.
Ignoring the intro because you're busy; it reflects on the person who made it.
Sending a long pitch about yourself before learning what the other person needs.
Forgetting to update the introducer after you meet; they like hearing it worked.

Questions people ask

Should I keep the introducer on the email thread?

After a quick thanks, move them to bcc and write to the new contact directly. That keeps the introducer from receiving every scheduling message. Do let them know afterward how the conversation went, in a line or two. A short thank-you to them in the same email is enough.

What if I don't want to take the meeting?

Say so kindly and quickly. Thank both people, give a short honest reason such as limited time, and offer a pointer elsewhere if you can. Declining politely is far better than leaving the introducer and the new contact waiting. The introducer will appreciate the courtesy.

More reply guides

How this page was made

Written by Westward, who make Orbit, as starting points you edit before sending. The replies use placeholders, not real people or real mail. Nothing here is legal, tax or medical advice; for contracts, money or health, check the document or ask a professional. All reply guides.