It used to be that if you wanted to add someone to your professional network you had to meet them and introduce yourself in person.  Now, with the proliferation of email and online social networking, it’s possible to introduce yourself to someone whom you only know by reputation.  You might read a blog article they wrote, see them post on a social media site, or learn out about them in a professional publication.  It’s much more common to find yourself wanting to connect with someone whom you won’t run into in the “real” world.  What’s the best way to connect to these people?

Before sending out an email cold, it helps to see if you have an existing connection with the person.  This is where online social networking sites can be a huge help.  Sites such as LinkedIn.com give you the ability to see if you and your networking “target” have any links.  Is there a mutual friend or acquaintance that can introduce you?  It’s also worth looking into shared interests, such as alumni groups or non-profit organizations.

If you don’t have an existing connection, that doesn’t mean that you can’t reach out.  Keep in mind, though, that we all have many demands on our time.   Make sure your introduction is clear, understandable, and brief.  When reaching out to new contacts, be respectful of their time, and be sure to talk about how a relationship with benefit both you and them.

When you want to introduce yourself to someone over email, this is a basic template that you can use to add someone to your professional network:

1. Introduce yourself: Don't make assumptions that someone will read your email header and know who you are. Make it clear from the start who you are.  Tell them your name and your position/job.
2. Suggest a connection: There is usually a reason that they've caught your attention as someone you want in your network. Do you have a common connection? Have you seen them speak or read something they've written? Did you attend the same school or work at the same company in the past? Tell them about any connections you might already have.
3. Tell them what you’d like: Why do you want to connect with them? What are you looking for and what are you offering in return. Is it simply that you feel it would be a good relationship. Are you looking for specific information or are you interested in meeting with by phone or in person?
4. Ask for a next step: How do you want to follow up with them? Let the person know if you would like to schedule a phone conversation, or a coffee/lunch meeting.  When you ask them a specific question, let them know the best way to respond to it.  It’s important that they know the best way to connect with you, you don’t want to create more effort for them.

When you create an introduction that follows these guidelines, you’re much more likely to receive a positive response.  Now, you can look at ways of building your network with professionals that you would never bump into at a local business reception.  Happy Networking!