Here's how you can master the art of following up with contacts made at conferences.

1 Organize Contacts

Once the conference concludes, your first task is to organize the contacts you've made. Categorize them based on interest, industry, or potential collaboration. This will make your follow-up process more strategic and personalized. Remember, the key is to tailor your communication to reflect the nature of each interaction. Whether it's a potential client, a mentor, or a peer in your field, the way you categorize them should guide the tone and content of your follow-up.

2 Personalize Messages

Sending a generic 'nice to meet you' email isn't going to cut it. Instead, craft personalized messages that reference specific conversations or moments you shared. This shows that you were genuinely engaged during your interaction and helps to jog the recipient's memory of who you are. A personalized message also opens the door for a more meaningful dialogue, rather than just a one-off email that gets buried in their inbox.

3 Timely Follow-Up

Timing is crucial when it comes to following up with new contacts. Wait too long, and you risk being forgotten; move too quickly, and it may seem pushy. Aim to reach out within a week of the conference's end. This window allows for the excitement of the event to still be fresh while providing enough time for attendees to settle back into their routines, making them more likely to engage with your message.

4 Offer Value

In your follow-up, always aim to provide value. This could be in the form of sharing an article related to a topic you discussed, offering assistance, or suggesting a collaboration. By providing value, you're not only reinforcing your expertise and interest but also giving them a reason to respond and continue the conversation. This approach demonstrates that you're interested in a mutually beneficial relationship rather than just pursuing your own agenda.

5 Maintain Engagement

Following up isn't a one-and-done task. To truly master the art of post-conference networking, you need to maintain engagement over time. This means checking in periodically, commenting on their work or achievements, and keeping them updated on relevant developments in your own career. Regular, thoughtful engagement helps to build a rapport and keeps you at the forefront of their mind for future opportunities.

6 Leverage Social Media

Social media platforms are excellent tools for keeping the conversation going after a conference. Connect with your new contacts on professional networks like LinkedIn, and engage with their content. Commenting on their posts or sharing their work can keep you visible in their network and foster ongoing interaction. Social media also provides an informal setting to continue building your relationship until the next opportunity for face-to-face interaction arises.

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?