What are the most effective ways to follow up after networking events?

1 Send a personalized email

The first step to follow up after networking events is to send a personalized email to each person you met within 24 hours. This shows that you are interested, respectful, and proactive. Your email should include a brief introduction, a reminder of what you talked about, a value proposition, and a call to action. For example, you could offer to share some insights, resources, or referrals related to their goals or challenges, or invite them to a meeting, a webinar, or another event. Make sure to use a clear and catchy subject line, address them by name, and keep your message concise and friendly.

2 Connect on social media

The second step to follow up after networking events is to connect on social media with the people you emailed. This helps you to stay in touch, build rapport, and expand your network. You can use platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook to follow their updates, comment on their posts, and share relevant content. You can also join groups or communities where they are active and participate in discussions. However, be careful not to spam them with too many messages or requests, and respect their privacy and preferences.

3 Schedule a follow-up meeting

The third step to follow up after networking events is to schedule a follow-up meeting with the people who responded positively to your email and showed interest in your offer or proposal. This is where you can deepen the relationship, explore opportunities, and deliver value. Depending on the situation, you can choose to have a phone call, a video chat, or a face-to-face meeting. You should prepare an agenda, set a clear objective, and confirm the date, time, and location in advance. During the meeting, you should listen actively, ask open-ended questions, provide solutions, and agree on the next steps.

4 Add value and stay in touch

The fourth step to follow up after networking events is to add value and stay in touch with the people you met until you achieve your desired outcome or reach a mutually beneficial agreement. You can add value by sending useful information, introducing them to other contacts, giving feedback, or offering support. You can stay in touch by sending periodic emails, messages, or calls, depending on the frequency and mode of communication they prefer. You should also keep track of your progress, follow up on your commitments, and celebrate your achievements.

5 Ask for referrals and testimonials

The fifth step to follow up after networking events is to ask for referrals and testimonials from the people you built trust and credibility with. This can help you to grow your network, generate leads, and enhance your reputation. You can ask for referrals by expressing your interest in meeting other professionals who might benefit from your services or products, or who might have similar goals or challenges as yours. You can ask for testimonials by requesting feedback on your performance, results, or impact, and asking for permission to use it on your website, social media, or marketing materials.

6 Say thank you and show appreciation

The sixth and final step to follow up after networking events is to say thank you and show appreciation to the people you met and interacted with. This is a simple but powerful way to express your gratitude, acknowledge their contribution, and reinforce your relationship. You can say thank you and show appreciation by sending a handwritten note, a gift, or a recognition. You can also give them a shout-out on social media, write a recommendation, or endorse their skills. Remember to be sincere, specific, and timely in your appreciation.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?