Navigating the Follow-Up After a Networking Social Event
Networking events are a powerful way to build connections and foster professional relationships. But the real magic happens in the follow-up! How you reconnect after an event can either solidify a new relationship or let it fade. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to follow up, whether by email or text, to keep it professional and memorable.
1. Email Follow-Up: Keep It Simple and Grateful
If you’re following up by email, aim for a short message that shows appreciation without overwhelming the recipient with details.
- Start with a Thank You: Expressing gratitude goes a long way. A simple “Thank you for your time” or “It was a pleasure meeting you” shows you value the connection.
- Keep It Short and Sweet (KISS): The best follow-ups are concise. Briefly mention a highlight from your conversation if it feels natural, but avoid overloading them with information.
- Communicate Your Interest: Let them know you’re looking forward to staying connected and briefly mention why. This can give your message a clear purpose and encourage future contact.
2. Text Follow-Up: Be Clear and Contextual
If your initial interaction was casual, or if you had a particularly friendly connection, a follow-up text may feel more natural. Here’s how to keep it professional:
- Introduce Yourself: Even if you shared contact information at the event, it’s helpful to mention your name and where you met for easy recall.
- Mention the Context: Reference the event and your conversation. Reminding them of where you met and what you discussed can reignite their interest and make your follow-up more impactful.
- Communicate Your Interest: Mention why you’d like to stay in touch or meet again, whether it’s for professional growth, collaboration, or shared interests.
3. Stay Connected: Plan for the Future
Following up is just the start of a professional relationship. To keep the momentum, find ways to stay engaged and create new opportunities to connect.
- Set Up a Follow-Up Meeting: If you had a great conversation, propose a coffee meeting or virtual chat to continue the conversation.
- Share a Calendar Link: Make it easy to coordinate a time to meet by sharing your calendar link, so they can choose a time that works for them.
- Plan to Meet at Future Events: If you’ll both be at upcoming industry events, suggest meeting there. It keeps you top of mind and makes it easy to reconnect in a relevant setting.
The Golden Rule: Follow Up Promptly
Timing matters! Aim to reach out within 1–2 days after the event so the interaction is fresh in both your minds. Promptness shows enthusiasm and keeps the momentum of your connection going strong. BUT, the other rule is better late than never!
And, however you choose to follow up, if you keep it brief and professional, you respect their time while making a lasting impression. When you keep it friendly while showing that you’re proactive about staying connected, they will believe that you are genuine.
Final Thoughts
Mastering the follow-up is an essential part of effective networking. A friendly email or thoughtful text can help you stand out and ensure that new contacts remember you in a positive light. Just remember to keep it simple, express gratitude, and stay proactive in making future plans.
If you’re looking for more personalized guidance, consider reaching out to PlansConnect. We offer customized LinkedIn consultations and 1-hour professional coaching sessions, providing concrete, personalized examples to help you navigate follow-ups and maximize your networking success.
Happy networking!