What's your strategy for dealing with unanswered messages?

1 Why messages go unanswered

There are many possible reasons why someone might not reply to your message. They could be busy, distracted, overwhelmed, or not interested. They could have missed your message, forgotten about it, or decided to respond later. They could have technical issues, personal problems, or a change of plans. Or they could have a different communication style, preference, or etiquette than you. The point is, you can't assume anything or take it personally. Sometimes, it's just not about you.

2 How to follow up effectively

If you don't get a response to your first message, you might want to follow up after a reasonable period of time. This could be a few days, a week, or a month, depending on the context and urgency of your message. A good follow-up message should be polite, concise, and relevant. It should remind the recipient of who you are, why you're reaching out, and what value you can offer. It should also include a clear call to action, such as asking a question, suggesting a meeting, or requesting feedback. Avoid sounding desperate, pushy, or rude.

3 How to use multiple channels

Sometimes, using a different channel can increase your chances of getting a reply. For example, if you sent an email, you could try calling, texting, or sending a LinkedIn message. Or if you met someone at an event, you could follow up with a social media comment, a thank-you note, or a referral. The key is to use the channel that is most appropriate, convenient, and comfortable for the recipient. Don't spam them with messages on every platform. And don't switch channels too often or too soon.

4 How to deal with rejection

If you still don't get a response after following up, you might have to accept that the person is not interested in talking to you. This can be hard to swallow, especially if you had high hopes or expectations. But don't let it discourage you or damage your self-esteem. Rejection is part of the networking process, and it's not a reflection of your worth or value. Instead of dwelling on the negative, focus on the positive. Learn from the experience, improve your communication skills, and move on to other opportunities.

5 How to maintain your network

Even if you get a response and start a conversation, your work is not done. You need to maintain your network and nurture your relationships over time. This means staying in touch, providing value, and showing appreciation. You can do this by sending updates, sharing resources, giving referrals, offering support, or celebrating achievements. You can also use tools like CRM software, calendar reminders, or networking apps to keep track of your contacts and interactions. The goal is to build trust, rapport, and mutual benefit.

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?