Here's how you can maximize your follow-up strategy after networking events in IT Consulting.

Craft personalized messages that reference specific conversations or topics discussed during the event. This shows genuine interest and reinforces the connection made.

In your follow-up, include a relevant article, resource, or insight related to your conversation. This not only demonstrates that you’re proactive and engaged but also provides additional value, fostering a more meaningful connection.

Utilize follow-up reminders or CRM tools to ensure timely outreach. These tools can help you schedule and track your follow-ups, ensuring that you maintain prompt communication and never miss an opportunity to connect.

Follow up promptly, ideally within a few days of the event. This ensures your outreach is timely and maintains the momentum from your initial meeting.

Customize the value you provide based on their unique interests or challenges discussed during the event. This tailored approach demonstrates your attentiveness and willingness to address their specific needs, making your follow-up more impactful.

Preparedness, organization, and follow through are vital to ensure a return on your investment of money and time attending industry networking events. Before the event, if available, scan the registrant list and identify those that you would like to reconnect with or establish a new relationship and be purposeful once in attendance. Immediately following, record notes about key conversations, connections, and needs while they are fresh in your mind. In each case, consider how you can best add value. Is it by making an introduction, sharing a relevant case study, or providing an experience-based insight? Structure your follow up around this identified way of contributing to their success.

Provide valuable insights, resources, or solutions related to the recipient's challenges or interests discussed during the event. This demonstrates your expertise and willingness to contribute.

While it's important to be detailed, keep your messages concise and focused. Highlight key points and include a clear call to action for the next steps.

The role that social media like LinkedIn can play in ensuring a valuable networking event for yourself and others begins well beforehand. When you register for the event, share a post to inform your professional network that you plan to attend. As the date approaches, post a reminder and highlight some themes or topics you look forward to discussing, sharing knowledge, or learning about. Once there, consider sharing a photo or other notes live from the event. All these actions set the stage for constructive post-event connections, follow-up engagement with existing and new connections, and a quick event recap for those unable to participate.

Connect with your new contacts on LinkedIn or other professional platforms. Engage with their posts and share relevant content to stay visible and deepen the relationship over time.

Propose a specific next step, such as scheduling a follow-up call or meeting. This helps to solidify the relationship and explore potential collaboration opportunities further.