A lot of networking advice assumes people are reluctant to help because they are selfish, busy, or indifferent.
Sometimes that is true.
More often, someone genuinely wants to help you and still does nothing because helping you feels difficult to execute.
They do not know how to describe you without getting it wrong. They do not know what kind of person or opportunity would actually be useful. And they are not fully convinced that putting the two of you together will reflect well on them.
That last point matters more than most people admit.
An introduction is not a calendar invite. It is a small transfer of reputation. When I introduce you to someone I value, I am implicitly saying: I think this conversation is worth your time. I think this person will be prepared, clear, and professionally sound. I think you will not regret taking my call.
People champion people when the social risk is low and the story is easy to carry.
If you want more referrals, introductions, recommendations, and opportu…
