How to Follow Up After a Networking Event
Most networking value is lost after the event, when business cards end up in a drawer. Following up is what turns a pleasant conversation into a relationship, and a relationship into referrals. Here is a simple follow-up system.
Within 24 Hours
- Connect on LinkedIn with a personal note that mentions your conversation.
- Send a short email or text: thank them and suggest a next step.
- Write down what you learned: their business, ideal client and anything personal they shared.
Within a Week
- Schedule a one-to-one with the people who could become power partners.
- Make any introduction you promised.
- Share something useful: an article, an event or a contact.
Over the Next Months
- See them at regular meetings and keep the conversation going.
- Send referrals when you can, and thank them when they refer you.
- Check in every few months, even when you do not need anything.
A Simple Follow-Up Message
“Great meeting you at the Tribe meeting this morning. I enjoyed hearing how you help families plan their remodels. I’d love to learn more about your ideal clients. Do you have 30 minutes for coffee next week?”
Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding people to your newsletter without permission
- Following up with a sales pitch
- Waiting weeks to reach out
- Following up once and never again
Organize Your Contacts
A simple system beats a perfect one. Use your phone contacts, a spreadsheet or a CRM, and record where you met, what they do, their ideal client and your next step. Tag your best potential power partners so you can find them quickly.
Follow-Up Ideas That Add Value
- Introduce them to someone who could become a client or partner.
- Invite them as a guest to your networking group.
- Share an article, event or resource related to their business.
- Congratulate them on a win you see on LinkedIn.
- Leave them a review if you have used their services.
When Someone Refers You
- Thank them right away, before you even talk to the prospect.
- Contact the referral quickly and professionally.
- Report back on what happened.
- Look for a way to return the favor.
Make It a Habit
Block 30 minutes after each networking meeting for follow-up, and a few minutes each week to check in with existing contacts. Small, consistent actions build a network that keeps producing referrals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon should I follow up after networking?
Within 24 hours, while the conversation is fresh.
What should a networking follow-up say?
Thank them, mention something specific from your conversation and suggest one clear next step.
Practice With Your Tribe
Put it into practice at a Tribe Networking meeting. Guests are welcome and your first three visits are free.