A VC - Latest Comments in A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

Re: A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

fredwilson — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 08:21:36 -0000

I'll check it out

Re: A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

fredwilson — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 08:49:55 -0000

It is more personal and increasingly rare. It works

Re: A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

fredwilson — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 08:32:11 -0000

Saw it. I don't want to use the web to do this. I want it all to work in email with some kind of web link (like this comment I am responding to via email)

Re: A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

fredwilson — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 08:22:28 -0000

Good word

Re: A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

OurielOhayon — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 05:14:08 -0000

i am /was exposed a lot to those situations: i learned to make a distinction where i know in advance when double optin is necessary and when it is not. The guy who makes the intro - if he s a good match maker should know enough both parties to assume they will both want to meet (eg: a startup looking to hire someone / and a killer candidate for the job).

If you re not sure enough, you should ask for permission. This is a matter of judgement.

The reason people don t ask for permission, is that it is painful to ask for it. requires multiple emails and explanations before the intro email happens. So many drop it.

I have learned that i could skeep a meeting i don t want to take by simply engaging by email and asking a brief pitch of the reason to the other party. many times this is enough to suggest a meeting is not that necessary

Re: A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

Doug Kersten — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 21:18:45 -0000

True. But it does indicate interest. Which means you are doing
something right. Kind of like an ad that people click on but when they
do it is still up to you to deliver the sale.

Re: A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

Nigel Walsh — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:36:43 -0000

I actually quite like it - it works for me - but then we are all designed differently - thankfully.

Re: A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

Nigel Walsh — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:26:04 -0000

good problem - I can hardly read my own writing - how on earth would anyone else!!! What specifically are we achieving with the hand written note - are we trying to say we invested more time in it...this is almost 'ever so english' What do other cultures do outside the US/UK?

Re: A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

Nigel Walsh — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:22:08 -0000

I like this point. Isn't this about trust?.

I know for example that any from "Friend x" or "colleague, customer, partner y" is always good and will always follow up the intro - but its all based on trust & their reputation. Equally people I work with in the same way - Anything I send onwards to connect certain folks know I wont waste their time - I have respect for them.

In the case where its speculative - then the double opt in is essential to gain consensus.

Re: A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

Elie Seidman — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:16:02 -0000

interesting. Looking forward to seeing if it works. The good news ;-) for them is that they set the bar low in their existing UI.

Re: A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

Nigel Walsh — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:13:42 -0000

they have just updated their UI, not tried it yet - there is a feature here on mashable: http://mashable.com/2009/11...

Re: A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

JimHirshfield — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 10:36:53 -0000

I hesitate to universally agree. In real life, it would be awkward, at a party or professional event, to approach 2 people independently and ask them if they mind meeting the other person. In-person is definitely different than via email, but most of the principles carry over. Obviously, it's just rude to not introduce two people you know when the 3 of you are all standing in a circle f2f. (And yet, I have found myself in this position many times). Would I introduce you to a guy across the room that I knew? depends. I wouldn't drag him across the room just to meet you purely on the basis that I knew both of you. I'd have to use my best judgement as to why such an intro makes sense. And the same holds true via email.

The real lesson here, as I see it, is that people just need to use good judgement. Don't introduce people just because person A asked to be introduced to person B. If you're doing the introducing you have an obligation implicitly written into your relationship with people not to Introspam them (if I may coin a word).

Re: A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

fredwilson — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:40:21 -0000

Not sure what subscriber count really means though. Subscribers don't always translate into readers

Re: A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

Phil Spector — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 10:59:11 -0000

So where is the advice here? are you just identifying thatthere is an issue, which is the firt step. Or are you suggesting we think about this beforehand. Please provide some usefule steps. For instance.

1. Intro to unsuspecting party: Frank, Hi there hope all is well, I know a boy named Su who really is good at what you do.

2. Patience: Wait for response from Frank.

3. Discussion on why: Engage in conversation regarding Su and Frank and why they should meet.

4. No surprises: Let them know you will be sending an email and what to expect, I have spoken to Frank and he agrees to meet with you bc your qualified candidate.

Re: A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

Doug Kersten — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 10:51:41 -0000

Totally agree with you. It is called being polite.

Very interesting stat by the way:

"Fred Wilson’s blog subscriber growth represented 25% of the blog subscriber growth of the entire VC industry."

http://larrycheng.com/2009/...

Re: A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

jer979 — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:59:44 -0000

I just did a few non opt-in intros today (and actually make a point to do them a lot...intros that is). Usually, I find that I'll talk to anyone for 10-15 minutes (when it suits me) b/c I like building out the network. Still, you make a great point and it's much more in line with Seth Godin (now mine) around "permission marketing." Effective immediately, I'm modifying the approach. It'll take a bit more time, but I suppose it will demonstrate greater respect to the network. Nice job on being the change agent on this one!

Re: A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

andyswan — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:10:46 -0000

That is awesome Dave.

Re: A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

maverickny — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:42:56 -0000

This post is particularly apt for me because yesterday someone emailed me introducing me to a friend of his and actually asked if I would like to be introduced to her. One presumes he did the same to the other party.

On receiving a yes from both, a nice note was sent to both of us with an introduction today and we have just spoken; turns out to be a very useful business prospect and we'll meet next week to discuss some mutual ideas.

Really liked the way he did it, with good manners, decorum and respect for our time. My respect for the introducer went up ten-fold... all I need now is to order some of those cards JLM suggested and send a hand written thank you note henceforth to Colorado!

Re: A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

maverickny — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:37:27 -0000

Love this idea, JLM... thanks for sharing!

Re: A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

fredwilson — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 06:35:44 -0000

My only problem with handwritten is my handwriting is the worst I've ever seen. It is not legible to most

I failed penmanship every year in school

Typewriters were a gift from god

Re: A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

fredwilson — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 06:29:58 -0000

Fortunately george bush can do no more damage. Andy, however, still can and will. Starting with the bourbon he'll get me to drink with him in a few weeks in NYC :)

Re: A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

fredwilson — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 06:28:37 -0000

Nice!

Re: A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

fredwilson — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 06:27:16 -0000

I haven't ignored you. I know you've got an email in my inbox. But do 350 other people right now. I'm working on it

Re: A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

fredwilson — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 06:25:36 -0000

Yes. If your friend asks you to introduce him/her to me then he's asking you to do the work of a middle man

Re: A VC: The Double Opt-In Introduction

fredwilson — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 06:24:11 -0000

they are bad connectors. Find someone better