How to introduce two people without creating an obligation

Check the fit before connecting inboxes

An introduction uses some of both people's attention. Before sending one, ask yourself what makes the connection useful to each side. Shared industry alone may not be enough. A relevant problem, complementary experience, or a requested conversation is a stronger starting point.

Then ask privately. An illustrative message is "I know someone who has worked through the hiring question you mentioned. Would you welcome an introduction?" Avoid promising that the other person will advise, hire, invest, or buy.

Write the shared message only after agreement

Illustrative example: "Sam, meet Jordan. You both said you would be interested in comparing notes on small-team onboarding. Sam is redesigning a first-week process; Jordan recently worked on a similar process. I will leave you to find a convenient next step." These are fictional people and circumstances.

Keep the introduction accurate and brief. Do not forward a private thread or attach someone's contact history. Share only the context they have agreed is appropriate.

• Confirm both people want the introduction.
• Use the contact channels each person approved.
• State the actual shared topic in one sentence.
• Avoid an implied obligation to respond or help.

Let the relationship belong to them

Once connected, the participants can decide whether to continue. You do not need to monitor their conversation or request progress reports. If either person declines before the introduction, accept that answer without explaining their private reasons to the other.

Ping's editorial point of view is that an introduction should leave people with agency. A bigger contact list is not the same thing as a stronger network. The same courtesy applies whether the connection begins with a ring, a card, or a conversation.

Sources: Ping Ring: official product information