REAL MANLY / ORIGINAL FIELD CARD 032
The introduction that makes room.
An introduction is a doorway, not a contract. Give two people names, one appropriate reason to talk and freedom to choose.
THE THREE-MOVE BRIDGE
1
Names
Say both preferred names clearly. Ask when uncertain. Don't make someone perform a biography.
2
Safe thread
Use the event or a volunteered shared interest. Don't disclose someone else's sensitive information.
3
Room
Offer an easy question, then pause. If someone is leaving or uninterested, let them go.
NAMES / THE PEOPLE I WANT TO INTRODUCE
ONE SHARED CONTEXT BOTH CAN COMFORTABLY DISCUSS
ONE EASY QUESTION — NOT A DEMAND FOR PERSONAL DETAILS
If I forget a name
“I'm sorry—would you remind me of your name?” Correct it rather than guessing.
If someone is leaving
“Let's save this for another time.” No one owes a conversation on demand.