Introduction
When reaching out to someone for the first time, mentioning a referral can build credibility and establish an immediate connection. However, using the same phrase repeatedly—such as “I was referred to you by”—can feel repetitive or overly formal in certain contexts.
Whether you’re writing an email, sending a text, or having a conversation in person, it’s helpful to have multiple ways to introduce a referral. This article explores over 26 alternative ways to express that someone referred you to a person, providing professional, casual, and friendly variations.
You’ll also find 13 user-friendly texting examples optimized for clarity, ensuring your message is well-received. Let’s dive in!
Formal Alternatives to “I Was Referred to You By”
In professional or business settings, it’s important to be polite and respectful. Here are some formal ways to phrase this:
1. [Name] suggested that I reach out to you.
- This phrase is both professional and warm, making it ideal for networking emails or business introductions.
Example:
“John Smith suggested that I reach out to you regarding the marketing position at your company.”
2. I was introduced to you through [Name].
- This sounds polished and suitable for business meetings, emails, and LinkedIn connections.
Example:
“I was introduced to you through Sarah Johnson, who mentioned your expertise in digital marketing.”
3. [Name] recommended that I contact you.
- Using “recommended” adds a sense of credibility and trust.
Example:
“David Miller recommended that I contact you about potential job openings in your department.”
4. [Name] mentioned that you would be a great person to speak with.
- This makes the referral sound more personal while maintaining professionalism.
Example:
“Lisa mentioned that you would be a great person to speak with about investment opportunities.”
5. I was given your contact information by [Name].
- A straightforward and clear way to introduce the referral, often used in formal emails.
Example:
“I was given your contact information by Alex Carter, who thought you might be able to assist with my inquiry.”
6. [Name] pointed me in your direction.
- This phrase is slightly more conversational but remains professional.
Example:
“James pointed me in your direction regarding freelance opportunities at your company.”
7. [Name] connected us, and I wanted to follow up.
- This is useful when someone has already made an introduction.
Example:
“Anna connected us, and I wanted to follow up regarding our discussion about potential collaboration.”
Casual and Friendly Alternatives
If you’re speaking in a more relaxed setting—like a social introduction, informal networking, or a friendly business chat—these alternatives work well.
8. [Name] said I should get in touch with you.
- This sounds natural and easygoing, great for casual networking or job-seeking.
Example:
“Mark said I should get in touch with you about the new project you’re working on.”
9. [Name] told me you’d be the best person to talk to.
- Adds an element of praise, which can make the recipient more receptive.
Example:
“Emma told me you’d be the best person to talk to about learning more about real estate investing.”
10. [Name] mentioned you might be able to help.
- This keeps things open-ended and doesn’t assume the person can or will help.
Example:
“Tom mentioned you might be able to help with my search for a graphic designer.”
11. [Name] put me in touch with you.
- A friendly way to acknowledge a connection.
Example:
“Sarah put me in touch with you after I mentioned I was looking for recommendations on web development.”
12. [Name] said I should reach out.
- A simple and direct way to introduce the referral.
Example:
“David said I should reach out regarding your experience in launching online businesses.”
13. I heard about you from [Name].
- Works well in both professional and informal conversations.
Example:
“I heard about you from Michelle—she had great things to say about your work in event planning!”
Ways to Say It in a Text Message
Here are 13 optimized texting examples that are clear, concise, and natural:
- “Hey [Name], Alex recommended I reach out to you about the freelance position. Let me know if you’re available to chat!”
- “Hi [Name], Emily mentioned that you might be the right person to talk to about website design. Would love to connect!”
- “Hey! I was introduced to you through Jake—he spoke highly of your work. Looking forward to chatting!”
- “Hi [Name], John suggested I contact you regarding the job opening. Is now a good time to talk?”
- “Hi! A friend of mine, Sarah, pointed me in your direction for career advice. Would love to hear your thoughts!”
- “Hey [Name], Lisa put us in touch! Looking forward to learning more about what you do.”
- “Hi, Chris recommended I reach out about your photography services. Do you have time to discuss?”
- “Hey! Alex told me you might be able to help with my resume. Can we chat?”
- “Hi [Name], I heard great things about you from Tom. Would love to connect!”
- “Hey! Emma said you’re the best person to talk to about marketing strategies. Let’s connect!”
- “Hi [Name], my colleague, Mark, recommended you for web design. Are you open to discussing?”
- “Hey, Michelle mentioned you could help with some business advice. Do you have time for a quick call?”
- “Hi! I was given your contact by Lisa—she thought you’d be a great person to talk to about this project.”
How to Choose the Best Alternative
When deciding which phrase to use, consider the tone and context:
- Professional Setting: Stick to formal or business-friendly phrases like “I was introduced to you through [Name]” or “I was given your contact information by [Name].”
- Casual Networking: Opt for something more relaxed, such as “Sarah put me in touch with you” or “I heard about you from [Name].”
- Texting: Keep it short and friendly, like “Hey, Alex recommended I reach out!”
Being polite and clear is key, regardless of the phrasing you choose.
Conclusion
Introducing yourself through a referral can instantly create a positive impression, but varying how you say it keeps the conversation fresh and engaging.
From professional introductions like “I was introduced to you through [Name]” to casual alternatives like “Mark said I should get in touch,” you now have over 26 ways to express referrals naturally.
Use these alternatives based on tone, context, and formality, and you’ll always make a great first impression!
