Be nice, upfront, and honest when you initially reach out. Explain that you only want to introduce yourself and start a conversation with them. Also, explain why you believe an open channel of communication will benefit both of you. Finally, be prepared for them to not reply at all or say yes. An alternative method is to send them an email. You can still be honest and up front but also mention some of your strengths and ideas for collaboration. This way they know that you're a real person who is not trying to steal their business - although of course they are free to say no to this approach as well. If you have another company involved in the mix, then you should definitely involve them in the discussion from the beginning. They may have some insights that could help both you and your competitor address any misunderstandings later on. Finally, you can always just show up at their office building or home address with a big old bouquet of flowers. But we don't recommend this approach.