What are the best ways to follow up with new contacts after a networking event?

1 Personalize It

When reaching out to new contacts, it's crucial to personalize your communication. A generic message can feel impersonal and is less likely to elicit a response. Instead, mention a topic you discussed or a shared interest that came up during your conversation at the networking event. This shows that you were genuinely engaged and are interested in them beyond just a business transaction. Personalization can set the foundation for a relationship built on mutual interests and respect, which is essential in business development.

2 Prompt Timing

Timing is everything when it comes to following up with new contacts. Wait too long, and you risk them forgetting about you; do it too soon, and you might come across as pushy. A good rule of thumb is to follow up within 24 to 48 hours of the event. This timeframe ensures that the interaction is still fresh in their minds while also demonstrating your keenness to connect. Prompt follow-up signifies professionalism and shows that you value the potential connection.

3 Offer Value

When you follow up, make sure to offer something of value. This could be a piece of relevant information, a helpful introduction, or an invitation to another event. By offering value, you're not just asking for something but also giving them a reason to engage with you. It positions you as a resourceful professional and can help in building a mutually beneficial relationship. Remember that business development is about creating value for both parties.

4 Stay Consistent

Consistency in your follow-up efforts can make the difference between a forgotten exchange and a budding professional relationship. If your initial follow-up doesn't receive a response, don't be discouraged. Send a second, polite reminder a week later, possibly with additional information or a different angle of discussion. It's important to be persistent without being intrusive, as this shows your genuine interest in connecting.

5 Utilize Social Media

Social media platforms are great tools for maintaining and nurturing professional relationships. After your initial follow-up, connecting on LinkedIn or a similar professional network can keep the lines of communication open. Engage with their content, endorse their skills, or share relevant articles to stay on their radar. Social media interactions can often be less formal and more frequent, which helps in building rapport over time.

6 Keep Records

Keeping track of your follow-ups is essential for effective business development. Use a spreadsheet or a customer relationship management (CRM) tool to note down details of your interaction, follow-up dates, responses, and any personal tidbits you've learned about the contact. This will help you maintain personalized communication and remind you when it's time to reach out again. Good record-keeping ensures that no contact falls through the cracks and that you're always prepared for the next conversation.

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?