In an email, using by way of introduction in an email helps you open with clarity and warmth, shaping a natural first line that feels professional and approachable to readers. From my years in business communication.
I’ve learned that impressions are everything, and while the classic saying works, it can feel too formal and repetitive, which is why a variety of alternatives keep things relatable and set the right stage for a new relationship.
You might be introducing a team member to a client or starting a casual chat with a colleague, and the phrases you use shape the message and its tone.
What Does “By Way of Introduction in an Email” Mean?
By way of introduction in an email is a formal phrase used to introduce yourself or another person at the beginning of a message. It signals context, explains why you’re reaching out, and prepares the reader for what comes next.
When to Use “By Way of Introduction in an Email”
You use by way of introduction in an email when starting a new conversation, making a formal connection, or introducing someone professionally for the first time.
Is It Professional or Polite to Say “By Way of Introduction in an Email”?
Yes, it is professional and polite, but it can feel stiff, dated, or overly formal in modern communication. That’s why many people prefer warmer alternatives.
Pros or Cons of Using “By Way of Introduction in an Email”
Pros:
Clear, professional, widely understood
Cons:
Formal, impersonal, repetitive, less engaging
Synonyms for “by way of introduction in an email”
- Here’s a Quick Introduction
- I’d Like to Introduce
- Allow Me to Introduce
- Just to Introduce Myself
- A Quick Note to Introduce
- Reaching Out to Introduce
- I Wanted to Introduce
- Let Me Introduce
- To Begin, I’d Like to Introduce
- I’m Writing to Introduce
- As an Introduction
- I’d Like to Take a Moment to Introduce
- A Brief Introduction
- Introducing
- Before We Begin, I’d Like to Introduce
Here’s a Quick Introduction
Meaning & Definition:
A friendly way to introduce yourself or someone briefly.
Explanation:
It sounds natural and conversational while staying professional.
Scenario Example:
“Here’s a quick introduction to our new marketing lead.”
Best Use:
Internal emails, casual professional settings
Worst Use:
Highly formal legal or executive communication
Tone:
Warm, friendly, approachable
I’d Like to Introduce
Meaning & Definition:
A polite phrase used to present a person or idea.
Explanation:
Direct and respectful, without sounding stiff.
Scenario Example:
“I’d like to introduce Sarah, who will manage this project.”
Best Use:
Client introductions, team emails
Worst Use:
Very casual chats
Tone:
Professional, polite
Allow Me to Introduce
Meaning & Definition:
A slightly formal but courteous introduction.
Explanation:
Shows respect and professionalism.
Scenario Example:
“Allow me to introduce our new partner.”
Best Use:
Formal business communication
Worst Use:
Friendly or casual emails
Tone:
Formal, respectful
Just to Introduce Myself
Meaning & Definition:
A soft, personal way to begin an email.
Explanation:
Feels humble and human.
Scenario Example:
“Just to introduce myself, I’m Alex from the design team.”
Best Use:
Cold emails, networking
Worst Use:
Executive announcements
Tone:
Friendly, personal
A Quick Note to Introduce
Meaning & Definition:
Signals brevity and respect for time.
Explanation:
Great when you want to sound efficient.
Scenario Example:
“A quick note to introduce our services.”
Best Use:
Busy professionals
Worst Use:
Long-form explanations
Tone:
Concise, polite
Reaching Out to Introduce
Meaning & Definition:
Explains why you’re contacting someone.
Explanation:
Works well in outreach emails.
Scenario Example:
“I’m reaching out to introduce myself.”
Best Use:
Cold outreach
Worst Use:
Internal communication
Tone:
Neutral, professional
I Wanted to Introduce
Meaning & Definition:
Casual and friendly introduction.
Explanation:
Feels conversational and relaxed.
Scenario Example:
“I wanted to introduce my colleague.”
Best Use:
Informal professional emails
Worst Use:
Formal business letters
Tone:
Casual, warm
Let Me Introduce
Meaning & Definition:
Direct and confident introduction.
Explanation:
Straightforward and easy to understand.
Scenario Example:
“Let me introduce our new hire.”
Best Use:
Team communication
Worst Use:
Very formal contexts
Tone:
Confident, clear
To Begin, I’d Like to Introduce
Meaning & Definition:
Structured and professional opening.
Explanation:
Helps organize formal messages.
Scenario Example:
“To begin, I’d like to introduce our agenda.”
Best Use:
Presentations via email
Worst Use:
Casual chats
Tone:
Formal, structured
I’m Writing to Introduce
Meaning & Definition:
Clear, purpose-driven introduction.
Explanation:
Common in business communication.
Scenario Example:
“I’m writing to introduce myself.”
Best Use:
Cold emails, HR communication
Worst Use:
Friendly internal notes
Tone:
Professional, direct
As an Introduction
Meaning & Definition:
A softer version of the original phrase.
Explanation:
Less formal than “by way of introduction.”
Scenario Example:
“As an introduction, I manage client relations.”
Best Use:
Professional emails
Worst Use:
Very casual messaging
Tone:
Neutral, polite
I’d Like to Take a Moment to Introduce
Meaning & Definition:
Thoughtful and respectful opening.
Explanation:
Shows care and intention.
Scenario Example:
“I’d like to take a moment to introduce our team.”
Best Use:
Client-focused emails
Worst Use:
Time-sensitive messages
Tone:
Thoughtful, warm
A Brief Introduction
Meaning & Definition:
Highlights clarity and brevity.
Explanation:
Ideal for busy readers.
Scenario Example:
“A brief introduction before we begin.”
Best Use:
Professional summaries
Worst Use:
Personal storytelling
Tone:
Efficient, professional
Introducing
Meaning & Definition:
Short and modern introduction.
Explanation:
Often used in announcements.
Scenario Example:
“Introducing our newest team member.”
Best Use:
Company-wide emails
Worst Use:
One-on-one conversations
Tone:
Confident, neutral
Before We Begin, I’d Like to Introduce
Meaning & Definition:
Structured and courteous opening.
Explanation:
Creates a smooth transition.
Scenario Example:
“Before we begin, I’d like to introduce myself.”
Best Use:
Formal meetings via email
Worst Use:
Casual communication
Tone:
Polite, professional
Comparison Table of Top Alternatives
| Alternative | Formality | Best For | Tone |
| Here’s a Quick Introduction | Low | Casual work emails | Friendly |
| I’d Like to Introduce | Medium | Client emails | Professional |
| Allow Me to Introduce | High | Formal settings | Respectful |
| Just to Introduce Myself | Low | Networking | Warm |
| I’m Writing to Introduce | Medium | Cold outreach | Direct |
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right words at the start of an email is more than a style choice – it’s a sign of care, clarity, and intention. While by way of introduction in an email is correct and professional, modern communication often benefits from warmer, more natural phrasing that feels human and inviting from the first line.
From my experience, small wording changes can dramatically improve how a message is received. When introductions sound thoughtful and genuine, they build trust faster, set a positive tone, and make professional relationships easier to grow – without sounding stiff or outdated.
FAQs
What does “by way of introduction in an email” mean?
It is a formal phrase used to introduce yourself or another person at the beginning of an email. It provides context for why you’re writing and prepares the reader for the message. While professional, it can sound old-fashioned, which is why many writers prefer modern alternatives.
Is “by way of introduction in an email” outdated?
It isn’t wrong, but it can feel outdated in casual or modern workplaces. Today’s communication values warmth and clarity, so alternatives often feel more natural. However, it still works well in formal business, legal, or academic emails.
Can I use casual alternatives in professional emails?
Yes, as long as the workplace culture allows it. Phrases like “Here’s a quick introduction” or “Just to introduce myself” can sound friendly yet professional. The key is matching the tone of your audience and situation.
What’s the best alternative for cold emails?
“I’m writing to introduce myself” or “Reaching out to introduce” works well for cold emails. These phrases clearly state intent, sound respectful, and don’t feel overly formal or awkward to someone you’ve never contacted before.
Should introductions be short or detailed?
Short introductions are usually better. Readers appreciate clarity and brevity. You can always add details later. A concise introduction respects the reader’s time and keeps the email focused and easy to read.
Is it okay to introduce someone else via email?
Absolutely. Email introductions are common in professional settings. Use clear phrasing like “I’d like to introduce” and briefly explain why the connection matters to both parties to add value and context.
What tone should an email introduction have?
The tone should match the relationship and purpose. Professional, warm, and respectful works in most cases. Avoid sounding too stiff or too casual unless you’re confident it suits the reader.
Can using the wrong introduction hurt communication?
Yes. An overly formal or awkward introduction can create distance or confusion. On the other hand, a thoughtful opening builds trust and makes the reader more open to your message.
Are introductions necessary in every email?
No. Introductions are mainly needed in first-time communication or when adding new people. For ongoing conversations, a simple greeting is usually enough and avoids repetition.
How can I make my introduction sound more human?
Use natural language, keep sentences simple, and focus on clarity. Writing the way you’d speak – while staying professional – helps your email feel genuine, approachable, and easy to connect with.
