The question: who is involved, and in what capacity?
Before discussing a possible introduction, establish each person's role. Is the inquiry coming from a principal, an authorised representative, or someone making an introduction? Identify the company involved, who the person speaks for, and what they are seeking. Use role descriptions that the people involved can support.
What matters: a defined requirement
Describe the product, the broad requirement, the relevant geography, and the intended timing. Explain which details are established and which remain open. A clear brief helps determine whether a connection would be relevant and what the first conversation should address. It also gives each party a chance to correct a misunderstanding early.
What remains uncertain: the work after an introduction
An introduction opens a conversation. The parties still need to establish authority, examine the proposed terms, and carry out the checks appropriate to their transaction. Record who is responsible for those next steps. Be precise about what has been confirmed and what has simply been stated by another party.
The next sensible step: agree on a relevant conversation
Set out the purpose of the introduction, the participants, and the information each person is comfortable sharing. Confirm any introduction arrangements before proceeding. If a role or requirement is unclear, resolve that point first. The aim is a conversation in which each participant understands why they are there and what they are being asked to do.