Post-Networking Follow-Up

By • Business & Entrepreneurship •

Business Networking

Networking events, whether in-person or online, are goldmines for building connections and expanding your professional horizon. But simply collecting business cards or adding LinkedIn connections isn’t enough. The real magic happens in the follow-up. It’s where potential leads turn into clients, fleeting conversations blossom into lasting relationships, and your efforts translate into tangible results.

Many people falter at this crucial stage, letting valuable opportunities slip through their fingers. Don’t be one of them. This blog will equip you with a comprehensive guide to crafting impactful follow-ups, ensuring your networking efforts yield maximum returns.

Promptness is Paramount

Strike while the iron is hot. The sooner you follow up, the fresher your interaction will be in the other person’s mind. Aim for a 24-48 hour window post-event. This demonstrates enthusiasm and respect for their time.

Personalisation is Key

Generic, mass-produced follow-ups are easily ignored. Instead, personalise each communication based on your specific interaction. Remember key talking points, shared interests, and any promises you made. This shows you were genuinely engaged.

Actionable Follow-Up Strategies:

  1. The Classic Email

  • Make the subject line clear and concise, referencing the event and your connection. Examples: “Following Up – [Event Name]”, “Great Meeting at [Event Name]”.
  • Use their name and a warm, professional tone.
  • Briefly remind them of what you discussed. This refreshes their memory and shows you were attentive.
  • Don’t just ask for something. Provide something of value. This could be a relevant article, a helpful resource, or an introduction to another connection.
  • Clearly state what you want to happen next. This could be scheduling a call, meeting for coffee, or connecting on LinkedIn.
  • Include your full contact information, including your LinkedIn profile URL.

Example:

“Subject: Following Up – Future of Tech Conference

Dear Jane,

It was a pleasure meeting you at the Future of Tech Conference yesterday. I thoroughly enjoyed our conversation about the challenges of AI implementation in small businesses. I particularly appreciated your insights on [specific point].

As promised, I’ve attached a link to the article we discussed, “[Article Title]”, which I believe you’ll find relevant.

I’d love to schedule a brief call next week to explore how we might collaborate further. Would you be available for a 15-minute chat on Tuesday or Wednesday?

Best regards,”

  1. LinkedIn Connection Request

  • Don’t use the default invitation message. Add a brief note referencing the event and your conversation.
  • Briefly mention how you believe connecting will be mutually beneficial.
  • After connecting, show genuine interest by liking, commenting on, and sharing their posts.

Example:

“Hi Jane, it was great meeting you at the Future of Tech Conference. I enjoyed our discussion about AI. Would love to connect and stay in touch. [Your Company] is also working on similar implementations and I think we can share some valuable knowledge.”

  1. A Touch of Personalisation (For In-Person Events)

  • Thank them for their time and conversation.
  • Mention something specific you learned from them.
  • Briefly reiterate your value proposition.
  • Send the note within a few days of the event.

  1. Sharing Relevant Content

  • Identify Relevant Articles, Blog Posts, or Videos: Share content that aligns with their interests or the topics discussed.
  • Explain why you think they’ll find the content valuable.
  • Don’t bombard them with content. Share strategically and thoughtfully.

  1. Scheduling a Follow-Up Meeting

  • Suggest a Specific Time and Place: Make it easy for them to accept.
  • Prepare an Agenda: Outline the topics you’d like to discuss.
  • Be Flexible: Adapt to their schedule and preferences.

  1. Delivering on Promises

  • If you promised to send something, do it promptly.
  • If you offered to make an introduction, follow through.
  • If you said you’d follow up with more information, do so.

  1. Maintaining Ongoing Communication: Nurturing Relationships

  • Stay in touch periodically by sending a brief email or LinkedIn message to check in.
  • Share relevant updates to keep them informed about your work or industry news.
  • Invite them to relevant events by extending invitations to webinars, conferences, or other gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Sending Generic Follow-Ups: Personalisation is crucial.
  • Being Too Salesy: Focus on building relationships, not just closing deals.
  • Not Following Through on Promises: This damages your credibility.
  • Being Inconsistent: Maintain regular communication to stay top-of-mind.
  • Forgetting to Track Your Follow-Ups: Use a CRM or spreadsheet to manage your contacts and follow-up activities.

Of course, if you struggle to do any of this, you could always reach out to us to help you.

Rachel Nash
Providing Virtual Support
Smart Office Support

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