Here's how you can effectively follow up after meeting someone at a networking event.

1 Prompt Email

Sending a prompt follow-up email is essential. Within 24 to 48 hours of your meeting, reach out with a personalized message. Remind them of who you are, where you met, and what you discussed. This quick turnaround shows that you value the connection and are proactive about keeping in touch. Make sure your email reflects the conversation you had; if you discussed a common interest or a potential collaboration, mention it. This personal touch can help jog their memory and reinforce your interest in the relationship.

2 Add Value

When following up, always aim to add value to the interaction. Instead of a generic 'nice to meet you', share a relevant article, introduce them to a contact, or offer assistance with a challenge they mentioned. This approach demonstrates that you're not just interested in what you can gain but also in what you can contribute. It sets the foundation for a reciprocal relationship, which is more likely to be beneficial and long-lasting.

3 Set Agenda

After the initial follow-up, propose a clear next step. This could be a coffee meeting, a phone call, or an invitation to an event you think they'd be interested in. By suggesting a specific action, you show initiative and make it easier for them to agree to meet again. Be flexible but purposeful with your proposal; it should be relevant to the conversation you had and beneficial for both parties.

4 Social Media

Utilize social media platforms judiciously. Connect on LinkedIn with a personalized invitation that references your meeting. Engage with their content by liking or commenting on their posts. This ongoing interaction keeps you on their radar and helps build rapport. However, be mindful not to overdo it; your aim should be to maintain a professional relationship, not to become a social media stalker.

5 Consistent Contact

Maintaining consistent contact is key to nurturing the relationship. You don't want to be forgotten after one follow-up email. Schedule reminders to check in periodically, perhaps once a quarter or around industry events. These check-ins can be simple messages of goodwill or updates about relevant professional developments. The goal is to stay present without being intrusive, ensuring that when an opportunity arises, you're at the forefront of their mind.

6 Personal Touch

Finally, remember the power of a personal touch. If you come across something that reminds you of your conversation or their interests—a book, a podcast, an article—send it their way with a brief note. Celebrate their professional achievements with a congratulatory message when appropriate. These small gestures show that you're invested in the relationship beyond a transactional level and can greatly enhance the bond between you and your new connection.

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?