Thank You for an Introduction Letter Example

Senior businesswoman greeting colleagues during conference
Maskot / Getty Images
By Alison Doyle
Updated on 06/29/21

Sometimes the best way to find your ideal job is through networking—by asking professionals you know in your industry to provide a formal business introduction to a desirable employer or to individuals who might otherwise advise you in your career search.

When they agree to do this on your behalf, it’s important to immediately write a thank-you letter (or email) to convey your thanks to them and to express your appreciation for their time and effort. Not only is this basic good manners, but it will also strengthen your connection, demonstrate your professionalism, and lay the groundwork for a continuing positive relationship in the future.

This is particularly essential if they themselves work for an employer to whom they have introduced you.

In the best-case scenario, you will soon become colleagues and/or team members, so writing a thank-you note will help ensure that you have established a good rapport even before your first day on the job.

You can—and should—build your professional network in many ways: by attending industry conferences or other events, by attending job fairs, by expanding your LinkedIn connections in your field, and/or by reaching out to colleagues or mentors.

Tips for Writing a Thank-You Letter 

  • Send your note right away. When someone offers or agrees to provide you with a professional introduction, you need to write and send your thank-you letter as soon as possible—ideally within 24 hours.
  • Provide a status update. If you score an actual job interview as a result of their introduction, it’s smart to write a second note to update them on your status, thank them again, and express your enthusiasm for the employer.

Send this second note even if, after an interview, you’ve decided you’re not interested in the job. You don’t need to explain your decision—and you definitely shouldn’t criticize the interviewing team or the company they contacted on your behalf. Simply express your gratitude for their assistance.

  • Proofread before you click send. Check, and double-check, for grammatical or spelling errors. It’s a good idea to have a trusted friend proofread your note before you send it. Even professional editors have trouble catching their own mistakes.
  • Offer to reciprocate. Offer to serve as a professional reference or to provide introductions for them in the future should circumstances warrant.

Sample Thank-You Letter for an Introduction

Here is a sample letter you can use as a model to send to a person who has provided an introduction to a contact who works in a company of interest.

Sample Thank You Letter for an Introduction

Your Name
Your Address
Your City, State Zip Code
Your Phone Number
Your Email

Date

Name
Title
Organization
Address
City, State Zip Code

Dear Simone,

Thank you very much for introducing me to Theodore Mannix of Cryptic Industries. He has been very helpful to me during my job search and has even offered to put me in touch with some of his colleagues. I am hopeful that through these new contacts, I will find a new position soon.

Your help and support during this search are greatly appreciated. Having someone with your knowledge and experience to confer with has made me feel much more confident during this difficult process.

Respectfully Yours,

Bob

Sending a Thank-You Letter by Email

In most cases, it’s perfectly fine to send your thank-you letter by email. Doing so has several advantages over an old-fashioned paper letter, not the least of which is speed. Also, you can literally send your message in the lobby before leaving the building.

Depending on your email program, you might also be able to get confirmation of receipt. If you don't have this option, you can always bcc (i.e., blind carbon copy) yourself, so you're assured the email went through.

Your email message should contain the same basic information as a regular thank-you letter, with a few exceptions. There is no need to include your return address or your contact's address. Simply include your contact information after your signature.

Email Thank-You Example

Subject: Thank You for the Introduction

Dear Simone,

Thank you very much for introducing me to Theodore Mannix of Cryptic Industries. He has been very helpful to me during my job search and has even offered to put me in touch with some of his colleagues. I am hopeful that through these new contacts, I will find a new position soon.

Your help and support during this search are greatly appreciated. Having someone with your knowledge and experience to confer with has made me feel much more confident during this difficult process.

Respectfully Yours,

Bob
......
robert.warren@email.com
555-121-1211

You should keep in mind that digital readers tend to have short attention spans, so be brief and just get to the point. 

Letter Writing Tips

Here's some help with writing thank-you letters, including who to thank and how to thank them, and networking letters and email messages to help you connect with those who can help you grow your career.