How can you follow up with feedback providers?

1 Why follow up?

Following up with feedback providers is not only polite and professional, but also beneficial for your networking. It shows that you appreciate their time and input, that you are serious about applying their suggestions, and that you value their expertise and perspective. It also helps you build rapport, trust, and credibility with them, and opens the door for further communication and collaboration. By following up, you can turn a one-time interaction into a lasting connection.

2 When to follow up?

The timing of your follow-up depends on the context and nature of the feedback. Generally, you want to follow up as soon as possible, preferably within 24 hours, to show that you are attentive and responsive. However, if the feedback requires some action or reflection on your part, you may want to wait until you have something concrete to report or ask. For example, if someone gives you feedback on your resume, you may want to follow up after you have revised it and ask for their opinion. If someone gives you feedback on your presentation skills, you may want to follow up after you have practiced and improved them and share your progress.

3 How to follow up?

Following up with feedback providers can take different forms, depending on the channel and tone of the communication. For example, you can use email for a formal and convenient way to follow up. Make sure the email is clear, concise, and respectful, and use a subject line that reflects the purpose of your message. Alternatively, you can opt for a phone call if you have a good rapport with the person or want to express your gratitude more warmly. Lastly, social media can be used for a casual and friendly follow-up, especially if you want to stay in touch and build your online presence. Remember to respect the person's privacy and preferences when using social media.

4 What to avoid?

Following up with feedback providers is important and beneficial, however, it is important to avoid certain pitfalls. Not following up at all can demonstrate a lack of care and appreciation, while following up too soon or too often can show impatience or neediness. Additionally, following up with irrelevant or inappropriate content can show a lack of respect and professionalism. Therefore, one should follow up in a timely manner and with relevant content that is professional and respectful.

5 How to measure your follow-up success?

The success of your follow-up depends on your goals and expectations, as well as the feedback and response of the person you are following up with. A successful follow-up can be indicated by receiving a positive and timely reply, thanking you, answering your questions, giving you more feedback, or offering you help or opportunities. Additionally, it is important to establish or maintain a good relationship with the person based on trust, respect, and mutual interest. Furthermore, achieving or progressing towards your networking or career goals, such as getting a referral, a recommendation, an introduction, or a job offer can also be seen as an indicator of success. Finally, improving your networking skills such as communication, listening, or persuasion based on the feedback and the follow-up is another sign of success. Following up with feedback providers is an essential skill for networking and career development. By following the tips and best practices in this article, you can follow up in a way that shows gratitude, respect, and interest that leads to positive outcomes and lasting connections.

6 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?