How do you introduce two people without creating an obligation?
Ask each person separately, explaining the connection and intended topic. Share agreed contact details only after both accept. Seeing a possible fit does not mean either person has time or interest.
Confirm the introduction's scope
- Describe the overlap without confidential information.
- Request permission from each side.
- Confirm which name, description and contact method may be shared. Two people exploring urban sound could agree to exchange public work without being committed to a collaboration.
Return control after connecting them
Include only approved descriptions, the overlap and an optional next step. Do not promise that either person will help, offer free consulting or reply. If someone declines, say that the introduction is not convenient without forwarding private reasons. Further contact remains their decision.
A worksheet you can use
Overlap: __. First consent: __. Second consent: __. Shareable details: __. Promises excluded: __. Introduction: __.
Can I create a group chat and ask afterwards?
That already shares identities and a contact channel. Ask separately first.
Evidence and scope
This double-permission workflow is editorial. The source authors did not review or endorse this template.
Ibarra and Hunter (2007) discuss external perspectives, not these tools. Herminia Ibarra and Mark Lee Hunter (2007) — How leaders create and use networks
Sources and further reading
Herminia Ibarra and Mark Lee Hunter (2007) — How leaders create and use networks
This collection in Chinese and English · Life possibilities library