The key to a referral is having something personal to talk about - I'm referring to a person. Whatever else it is, it has to be personal. (Cue You've Got Mail quote!)

So I look for things the speaker has in common with the audience.
My best introduction was when I was tasked with introducing a politician as a speaker at a women's conference.
My intro rhythm was "Like you, "

• Like you, she's a mother.
• Like you, she has an important career she enjoys.
• Like you, she . . .

The value to the speaker was commaraderie from the audience.

In a PowerCore setting my goal is for the Members to think of someone who would like to meet the speaker, because they'd have something personal to talk about.

INTROMinutes are a great way to give back to your team members. The best include concrete examples that demonstrate their character. The specifics of a detailed story highlight qualities that are tangible and relatable. Good INTROMinutes often contain personal information beyond their work - providing details that help establish their behavioral patterns. By weaving together multiple aspects of their life - from professional achievements to community service to personal interests - these threads lead to a consistent pattern of dedication and excellence. This makes the purple card claims in their InfoMinutes more credible because they fit into a larger, coherent narrative that their team members reinforce. Vulnerable moments can be impactful as well. Including real challenges and how they were handled adds credibility. Perfect people aren't relatable, and nothing ever goes perfectly. Seeing how that member handles difficulties often says more about their character than their successes.

An INTROMinute holds the same value as an endorsement letter because of its ability to create an immediate, emotional connection through storytelling. Here's why:

The Story: A well-crafted story humanizes the professional, showcasing their expertise in action. It demonstrates how they solve problems and deliver results, which resonates more deeply than generic praise.

An INTROMinute is a way to give because it positions the professional as a trusted resource, creating opportunities for growth and impact while strengthening relationships.

Learning more about a team member personally, I feel, is invaluable.  It helps convey their relatability to a referral, strengthens the relationship between team members, and helps allow finding a connection with the team member.

When I do an intro minute, I want to ensure I do a great job explaining why this individual is a great referral partner. 

An Introminute can be as valuable as an endorsement letter in all three ways: the story, specificity, and personal attributes. A story grabs attention and creates an emotional connection, making the introduction memorable. Specificity highlights what sets the person apart—their unique skills, achievements, or qualities—instantly building credibility. Emphasizing personal attributes makes the introduction relatable and human, fostering trust.

This is such a powerful way to give because it shifts the spotlight onto someone else in a meaningful way. You’re not just saying their name or role—you’re showcasing their value and helping others see why they matter. That kind of genuine recognition opens doors, strengthens connections, and encourages a spirit of reciprocity, which is the heart of successful referrals.

An INTROMinute gains the same value as an endorsement letter when it achieves the following:

• A memorable story ties the introduction to the individual’s unique strengths. Stories create an emotional connection, making the subject relatable and impactful.
• Example: “Gina’s knack for logistics was clear when she helped a family reimagine their itinerary mid-trip after unexpected delays, turning potential frustration into joy.”

• Highlighting tangible achievements or traits sets the individual apart and shows their expertise in action.
• Example: “She’s not just a travel advisor; Gina plans every detail, from visa logistics to the perfect neighborhood for a hotel, ensuring every moment of a trip is seamless.”

• Sharing personal qualities that make the individual exceptional emphasizes why they’re valuable.
• Example: “Gina’s meticulous attention to detail and personal care make her clients feel like every trip is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

• An effective INTROMinute delivers its message clearly and succinctly, ensuring the audience immediately understands the value.

• Writing the INTROMinute in a way that feels genuine and natural, as though you’re speaking to a close friend or trusted colleague, builds credibility.

When these elements combine, an INTROMinute not only introduces but also endorses, demonstrating why someone is worthy of trust and connection.