How do you follow up after a virtual event?

1 Choose the right platform

Depending on the type of event and the level of connection you made, you may want to follow up with different platforms. For example, if you attended a webinar or a workshop, you may want to send an email to the host or the speaker to thank them, ask a question, or share feedback. If you participated in a breakout session or a chat, you may want to connect with other attendees on LinkedIn or Twitter and continue the conversation. Choose the platform that suits your purpose and the tone of the event.

2 Be timely and specific

Don't wait too long to follow up after a virtual event. Ideally, you should send your message within 24 hours, while the event is still fresh in everyone's mind. Be specific about what you liked, learned, or gained from the event and how it relates to your goals or challenges. Mention something that stood out to you or that you have in common with the person you are contacting. Avoid generic or vague messages that could apply to anyone or any event.

3 Offer value and interest

One of the main goals of following up after a virtual event is to establish a rapport and a mutual benefit with the person you are contacting. To do that, you need to offer value and interest. Value means providing something useful, relevant, or helpful to the person, such as a resource, a referral, or a solution. Interest means showing curiosity, enthusiasm, or support for the person's work, goals, or challenges. Don't just ask for something or expect something in return. Show that you care and that you have something to offer.

4 Include a call to action

The final step of following up after a virtual event is to include a call to action in your message. A call to action is a clear and specific request or suggestion that invites the person to take the next step in the relationship. For example, you may want to ask for a meeting, a feedback, a referral, or a collaboration. Or you may want to suggest a resource, a event, a group, or a project. Make sure your call to action is relevant, realistic, and respectful. Don't be too pushy or too vague.

5 Follow up again

Sometimes, you may not get a response to your first message after a virtual event. That doesn't mean you should give up or take it personally. People may be busy, distracted, or forgetful. You can follow up again after a few days or a week with a friendly reminder or a new value proposition. However, don't follow up too often or too aggressively. If you don't get a response after two or three attempts, it may be time to move on and focus on other connections.

By following these tips, you can make the most of your virtual events and turn them into lasting and meaningful relationships. Virtual events are not just one-time occasions, but opportunities to grow your network and your career.

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?