Post-Networking Follow-Up Strategy
This playbook outlines actionable steps for following up after a networking event. The goal is to turn new connections into lasting and productive professional relationships.
Step 1: Organize Contacts
Sort through the business cards and contact information you gathered at the event. Categorize the contacts based on interest, industry, potential collaboration, or other relevant criteria.
Step 2: Prioritize Follow-Ups
Identify which contacts you want to follow up with first. Prioritize based on the strength of the initial interaction and the potential opportunity each connection represents.
Step 3: Immediate Acknowledgment
Send a quick email or message within 24 hours of the event to thank each contact for the conversation and mention something specific you discussed to show genuine interest.
Step 4: Connect on LinkedIn
Send personalized LinkedIn connection requests. Include a brief message reminding them of your interaction if the platform allows.
Step 5: Schedule Meetings
Propose a follow-up meeting or call for contacts with clear synergy or mutual benefits. Be flexible with your availability and suggest a specific timeframe to make scheduling easier.
Step 6: Continued Engagement
Engage with your new connections on social media by liking, commenting, or sharing their content to keep the relationship active and show ongoing interest in their work.
Step 7: Record Information
Keep a record of all your new contacts, the follow-ups you've done, the responses received, and scheduled meetings. Use a CRM tool or a spreadsheet to help track your interactions and follow-up actions.
Step 8: Provide Value
Offer helpful information, introductions, or other resources to your connections without an immediate expectation of return. This helps establish the relationship as mutually beneficial.
Step 9: Review Feedback
After a few weeks, review the interactions and feedback from the contacts. Assess what strategies worked well and what could be improved for future networking events.
General Notes
Reflect on Interactions
Take some time after the event to reflect on the conversations you had, noting any particular interests or needs that were expressed by your new connections.
Follow-Up Timing
While immediate acknowledgment is crucial, space out other follow-ups appropriately to avoid overwhelming your new contacts or appearing desperate.