Why do people play games with introductions???
We’ve all seen it… someone asks for an intro, you take the time to make it, and then, silence. When one person finally replies, the other suddenly waits the same amount of time (or longer) to respond, like there’s some bizarre unwritten rule about not replying “too quickly.” What is this… freaking dating? (and let’s be honest, it’s bad enough that nonsense happens there 🤦🏻♂️).
And if it’s not games, it’s something even more frustrating… the lack of response altogether. An intro is requested, you confirm both parties are open to connecting, you make the connection… and then the follow-up drags, loses steam, or never happens at all.
Come On, People… let’s get real for a second. When someone makes an introduction, they’re putting their credibility on the line. They’re saying, “I trust you enough to connect you with someone in my circle.” When you don’t respond, or you treat the intro like some casual obligation, you’re not just being rude. You’re burning social capital. You’re showing everyone involved that your word and your follow-through can’t be relied upon.
And here’s the truth no one likes to hear… one day, you’re going to need something. A favor, an introduction, a door opened. And when that day comes, people will remember. They’ll remember the silence, the stalling, the times you couldn’t be bothered to follow up when they stuck their neck out for you.
We all think our success will last forever. We all think we’ll never need help again, UNTIL WE DO. And when that time comes, your credibility might already be shot. And even if not, let’s face it… you are simply not a good friend, colleague, or someone others can count on to care about anyone other than yourself.
Relationships Are the Currency That Outlast Everything Else
Introductions aren’t transactions, they’re acts of trust… they’re moments where someone says, “Hey, I believe in this connection enough to make it happen,” OR… “do me a favor, this introduction means a lot to me.” When you play games with that, you’re not just wasting time, you’re sending a message about who you are and how you operate.
RETURN ON RELATIONSHIP isn’t about what you get in the moment. It’s about what you build over time. Every interaction, especially the small ones, either strengthens your reputation or chips away at it. So stop playing games. Answer the email. Follow up. Show some grace and gratitude. Because when you treat introductions with respect, you’re not just honoring someone’s time, you’re investing in your own long-term credibility.
Relationships are the true currency of business and life… and if you keep spending carelessly, don’t be surprised when the account runs dry.