What should you do when your networking follow-up is ignored?

When your follow-up feels like a one-sided chat, don't lose heart. Think of it like planting seeds—water them patiently. Follow-ups aren't just emails; they're threads weaving relationships. Try a gentle ping, maybe a different approach. Be persistent, not pushy. It's like tending a garden; sometimes, flowers need time to unfold.

The 7-11-4 Rule by Google states that for you to convert customers you need to get in front of them 7 hours, 11 times, across 4 different locations. Following up adds up to this number and increases your chances of being seen, followed and liked. All of which lead to calls and conversions.

Ever feel like your first meeting was a one-hit wonder? A gentle nudge shows you're genuinely interested, not just a drive-by networker. They build relationships, show commitment, and keep you top of mind. ?? In a world full of noise, your follow-up is the encore that makes you unforgettable.

No response is not always that they are ignoring. It’s a good idea to follow up after you’ve contacted someone by email and haven’t received a response. A lack of reply could be the recipient is not interested, or it could be that they’re just busy or have hundreds of emails and haven’t had a chance to look at yours yet. By following up, you can remind them that you still want to pursue the topic of your first email. Make conversations to "build relations" than "selling". Connect through other means (Social media or groups) and showcase your value and how they benefit with you being there to assist. Also, please be prepared to hear a NO! be prepared to be refused. But continue to grow your value your insight on what you are doing.

Crack the code to the inbox! Start with gratitude, recap key points, and sprinkle in enthusiasm. Make it concise but memorable, like the perfect movie sequel – leaves them wanting more! ?? Remember, a well-crafted follow-up is the plot twist they didn't see coming.

If all attempts go unanswered, it's time to gracefully move forward. Respect their silence, people have various reasons for not responding, maybe it is not the right time for them, or they are overwhelmed with other things etc. Redirect your efforts to new connections. It's like changing paths when a door closes – there are always more opportunities ahead. Focus on nurturing relationships that reciprocate your efforts, and remember, not every door leads to your destination.

Silence doesn't mean the mic is off! Give it time, then hit them with a friendly ping. Keep it light, maybe a GIF that says, "Did my email get lost in cyberspace?" Remember, persistence is the key – not the annoying neighbor. ???

Let it go. There's plenty of fish in the sea. Many of which are much more prone to bite. So stop spending time fishing for a dead one, and catch a better one that wants it more.

Here's a simple formula to follow: Two emails and one phone call. Even the most conscientious of us sometimes "lose" emails in our inbox. So a 2nd follow up email is often warranted. Then, shift to another communication medium - perhaps a phone call or a linkedin direct message. Beyond that, many agree it becomes harassment. Gracefully move on.

Stop selling. Start connecting. People hate the fakeness. So just be real. Be yourself. Be authentic. Be true. More people will resonate with you. More people will like you. More people will reply.

Rule one: don't be spammy! Customize your approach, add value, and be genuine. Show you're not just in it for the take but for the give-and-take. Authenticity is your VIP pass to the inbox party. ???

Diversify your follow-up portfolio! If emails are playing hard to get, try LinkedIn messages, or a thoughtful comment on their recent post. You might be surprised how much a genuine conversation can stand out in the digital noise. ???

If your definition of "networking" is sales outreach, I encourage you to change your strategy. Effective networking is about giving not taking. Those with the strongest network provide value to others, for example by sharing insights and expertise, or by connecting others. Before you reach out to that prospect, ask yourself what value you can provide them, not what you can sell them. Unless they approached you first, they are under no obligation to read or listen to your pitch. So be generous.

Network will provide net-worth. Be patient and persistent but also mindful of other's time and priorities. Allow reasonable amount of time to respond. Review the previous communication, its text, context and pretext. A change in "medium" may catch their attention. Also ensure alternate channels. Follow up politely. My strong feeling is that though we are living in technological era, still it is better to connect face-to-face, if possible. Be in a position to accept that they may not be interested.