Introduction emails are a critical currency in the business world, helping to build connections. For example, you may want to introduce a colleague to a client (or customer) or a new colleague to an old one.
Whatever your reason for writing an intro email, we can show you how to do it better! (If you want to learn how to introduce yourself in an email, we've got a guide for that...).
We will walk you through each step of the process, explaining how to write an introduction email. We start by exploring correct email etiquette, then follow it up in MailMaestro style with a breakdown of the individual parts in every persuasive email.
Finally, we illustrate how to create effective intro emails with 5 samples and a template. By the end, you'll be an intro emailing expert.
Introduction email etiquette
So, why write an introduction email? The primary introduction email purpose is to connect two (or more) people that don't know each other – but should.
Examples of essential introductions include:
- Connecting a new team member with an existing customer
- Introducing an account manager to a client
- Bringing together two members of staff who have never met
If you're already working in an office environment, you'll likely have sent an introduction email. But are you doing it correctly?
There's a little bit of email etiquette at work here.
Firstly, before sending an introduction email, you should get permission from the parties that matter.
Let's say you're introducing an account manager to a client. This is a critical relationship, so you'll need to check that the person is in a position to do their job. So rule #1 is to check each side is prepared and expecting the connection.
Rule #2 is to find language that fits. You'll want to use a conversational style, but avoid using slang or being too familiar – particularly when dealing with clients and customers.
Rule #3 is to stick to the accepted introduction email format, so let's look at that now...
Introduction email format
There are three parts to an effective introduction email: the subject line, body copy, and sign-off. As you'd expect, this section explains the essential elements of every introduction email, including email subject lines, what to include in the email body, and how to sign off.
Work through this list, and you'll learn how to build clear and compelling introduction emails.
1. Introduction email subject line
Subject lines can be tricky to tackle, so follow this principle: Your subject line should clearly show the intent of your email. Don't try to be funny or creative; capture the essence of the email.
Email experts believe (and professional etiquette dictates) that you should start your subject with "Intro" or "Introduction". It explains the purpose of the message and quickly catches the eye in a stuffed inbox.
Then, follow that up with the names of the people you're messaging. (Don't worry about including the surnames unless there's a reason, such as both people having the same first name!)
Here's how that can work:
- Intro: Jane x Kyle
Sometimes, it can be a good idea to include other information, such as what they do or who they work for. Here are a few ways that you can do this:
- Intro: Jane (Primity.vc) & Kyle (Grava)
- Intro: Lizz (Head of Sales at Shelby Co. Ltd.) & Kyle (new Senior Account Executive)
- Introducing Kyle, your new Account Executive
These introduction subject lines are simple, straightforward, and short enough to be read in a fraction of a second. That's the key to their success.
Let's write an example email together, startign with the subject line:
2. Introduction email body
Introduction emails aren't about you but about creating a connection. So, begin with a clear and concise purpose.
Next, you'll need to explain why an introduction email is necessary, so after sharing details of the people involved, provide context.
Focus on building a positive relationship, so highlight strengths between the two parties.
There's a lot to consider here, but try to keep the tone of voice and professional. Don't be too formal or informal, try to hit the right note – as we do in this example.
3. How to end an introduction email
So, you've managed an introduction; your job is done, right? Not quite! When closing your introduction email, you'll want to be specific about the next steps – including who is in charge of taking things forward.
Respect other peoples' schedules, and let them work things out.
You'll also need to include the essentials, including contact details and any issues that may impact communication (if someone is off on a certain day or planning a vacation, for example).
5 introduction email examples
Hopefully, you'll now understand the fundamental parts of every introduction email. In this section, we illustrate the points with some practical examples. You can find 5 email introduction examples that demonstrate how to introduce someone via email, introduce colleagues to each other, and colleagues to clients.
These examples demonstrate how to put these things into practice. We recommend using these as the basis for your own emails (but if you're running short of time, feel free to cut and paste!).
1. Introduce someone via email sample
This simple intro sample is suitable for professional and personal use. It's stripped back to the bare bones and is easy to understand. Be sure to match this with an easy-to-understand subject line for a successful intro.
2. Introduce two colleagues via email sample
At work, you'll probably have to introduce colleagues to one another. It could be welcoming a new starter, introducing a new team member, or bringing together two individuals for a collaboration.
Whatever the reason, the format is the same and the focus should remain on getting work done!
This is how to introduce a colleague via email...
3. Introduce your colleague to a client via email sample
Introducing a colleague to a client is a big step. Before writing an email, ensure that your colleague is prepared for the email.
Are you confident they have the information, support, and confidence to take the connection forward? Once you're happy, use this to introduce your colleague to a client in an email.
4. New account manager introduction email to customer sample
Account managers are a crucial connection between you, your company, and your client. You'll want to ensure a smooth and happy handover, so do work before sending an intro email. As well as prepping the new account manager, you may also want to consider dropping your client ahead's up – particularly if it's a big and valuable customer.
When you're ready to start writing, here is an effective new account manager introduction email to a customer.
5. New employee introduction email to colleagues sample
That first-day feeling can be full of nerves. Still, a warm and welcoming introduction email to colleagues can work wonders.
Internal emails can be a little less formal and provide a little insight into your personality.
This new employee introduction email should put them at ease on their first day...
Introduction email template
Hopefully, the business email templates above show you how simple it is to create introduction emails. But if they don't hit the spot or suit the circumstances, you can use our customizable email template.
Work from the top to the bottom, and fill in the gaps to create a compelling message. Don't worry if some sections don't work; delete them.
Be sure to proofread and edit before sending!
Quick checklist for writing introduction emails
By now, you should have developed the skills to write engaging and effective introduction emails. But, before we leave you, here is an essential checklist for writing introduction emails. Follow it, and you'll create content that builds connections.
- Start all introduction emails with a clear subject line that accurately reflects the contents
- Greet both parties in a friendly and professional manner using their first names
- Provide context for the introduction and explain why you are making it
- Highlight relevant information about each person and their connection to the introduction
- Keep the email concise and to the point (it's about them, not you!)
- Write in a warm and approachable tone
- Provide follow-up information or details on the next steps
- Thank both parties for their time reading the email
- Proofread and edit the email carefully before sending it
Final words on introduction emails
Introduction emails are essential parts of the professional's toolkit.
Thankfully, writing them is easy — especially if you follow our guide. Remember, the focus of each email is creating a connection, so strip emails back to the basics and focus on this.
Once you've made the introduction, step back and let them get on with it! You can relax with the warm glow that your job here is done.