DistributionProven Pattern

Craft self-contained forwardable emails to make introductions effortless for busy contacts

When asking for an introduction, write the complete email your contact can forward - include a customized subject line, who you are, what you want, why, and your contact info including phone number. This reduces friction for the connector and increases success rate.

When to use

When asking for introductions to busy or important people through mutual contacts

Don't do this

Asking for an intro without providing any context, forcing your contact to explain who you are and what you want

3 Founders Who Did This

1
First Round Capitalby Chris Fralic

Developed the SCFE (self-contained forwardable email) framework for introductions - complete emails with subject line, context, and phone number that contacts can forward directly

Result:Built reputation as world-class connector with consistent high response rates on introductions
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2
N/A (Career/Networking)by Karen Wickre

Created standardized email templates with all context included: opener reconnecting to the askee, specific reasons for introduction, vouching for the asker, clear consent request, and alternative suggestions if they can't help

Result:Writes handful of successful introduction notes every week, usually getting yes responses
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3
Databricksby Ron Gabrisko

Made it easy for VC investors to help by sending pointed asks naming specific companies and CIOs with draft email blurbs they could forward, rather than generic requests

Result:Landed early Fortune 500 enterprise deals through investor network at a16z, accelerating enterprise traction
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