That Awkward Moment: Who Should Respond First in a Digital Introduction?

It's that awkward moment. Someone just introduced you to another person over email and you don't know who should reply first. If you're the one asking for the intro, I know what you're thinking, that you don't want to bug them or seem too eager. Better just wait for them to reply...right? WRONG. Well...at least in my opinion.

Here are the three reasons why I think the person being introduced should be the first one to respond to an introduction that someone else makes for you.

It shows you are really interested. It's not uncommon for people to make introductions and the person who asked for the introduction never responds. A quick email leaves them no doubt that you are ready to engage.

It gives you the chance to show your relevance. You can add anything else that was left out in the introduction that you feel could make you more relevant. See the great example below.

It will make it easier for the person making the introduction. What's easier, one email response or two? If you respond first, you can suggest times for your meeting, call, or ask the question you want to ask. If you do that, the person will only have to respond once to the introduction to set something up. If you don't there will be a bit more back and forth to figure out a time to meet.

Now don't stress if the other person was really fast and replied before you got a chance to respond. Keep in mind though, that for most introductions, showing extra relevance, interest and making it easy for them, might get you a little further.