A practical guide
What is Go-to-Network?
Go-to-Network is a relationship-led way to find and reach the people who can help move your work forward. Instead of starting with a cold list, start with a clear ask and look for a relevant, trusted path—then let every connector choose whether to make an introduction.
Explore your networkA useful shift in approach
From “Who should I message?” to “Who can help me get there?”
Go-to-Network is not simply collecting contacts or asking everyone you know for an introduction. It means making a specific, useful ask; understanding how a potential connector knows the person; and giving that connector control over whether to pass it along. A warm path can make outreach more relevant, but it never guarantees a reply or a business outcome.
A repeatable practice
How to work your network with care
- 01
Name the person you need to reach.
Make the ask specific: a role, organization, expertise, or kind of relationship. A clear ask is easier for someone else to recognize and help with.
- 02
Look for a relevant relationship path.
Start with your own relationships and, where people have chosen to share them, the networks of teammates and collaborators. Look for context and trust—not just a shared connection.
- 03
Ask the connector before making an introduction.
Share why you want to meet, what you hope to discuss, and a short note they can pass along. Let the connector decide whether the introduction makes sense.
- 04
Follow through and close the loop.
Be thoughtful with the new contact's time. Thank the connector and share what happened, while respecting anyone who declines or does not respond.
Start with a real question
Who are you trying to meet?
These are examples of the kinds of questions a team can bring to its network—not live Scout asks or promises that a match exists.
How do I get an introduction to an investor who understands my market?
Who on my team might know a buyer at this company?
Can a trusted advisor help me meet a potential co-founder?
Which community relationships could help members find mentors or collaborators?
Where Scout fits
Make relationship paths easier to see.
Scout helps people map the professional relationships they connect and choose to share, search for relevant paths, and coordinate introduction requests. People remain in control of their relationships; Scout does not make an introduction on anyone's behalf without their participation.
Go deeper into how Scout works, or explore the existing pages for founders, enterprise teams, universities, and venture studios.
Looking for a specific answer? Browse the curated warm introduction and network guides.
Start with one person you need to meet.
Make the ask clear, find a thoughtful path, and let the connector decide what happens next.