Here's how you can effectively follow up with new networking contacts.
Networking is an essential part of professional growth, and making new contacts is just the beginning. To truly benefit from networking, you need to effectively follow up with the people you meet. This means moving beyond the initial handshake and conversation to foster a relationship that can provide mutual benefits over time. Whether you've exchanged business cards at a conference or connected via a professional networking site, the next steps you take are crucial in turning those new contacts into valuable professional allies.
When you've added new members to your network, it's important to reach out in a timely manner. Wait too long, and you risk them forgetting the connection you made; do it too soon, and you may come across as pushy. A good rule of thumb is to follow up within 48 hours of your initial meeting. This promptness shows that you value the connection and are proactive in maintaining it. In your follow-up, reference something specific from your conversation to jog their memory and establish a personal touch.
Personalization is key when following up with new contacts. Avoid generic messages that feel like they could be sent to anyone. Instead, tailor your communication to reflect the unique interaction you had with each person. Mention a topic you discussed or express genuine interest in an aspect of their work. This approach not only makes your new contact feel valued but also demonstrates your attention to detail and your interest in them as an individual, not just a business opportunity.
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This is one of the key things if you really care about the effective follow up and it is also a common professional decency, so: - mention where you met or how you connected - reference a specific part of your conversation or something they mentioned - highlight a common interest or mutual connection - suggest a follow-up action, such as a coffee meeting or a call - offer something of value, like an article related to their field - keep the tone friendly and approachable - express genuine interest in their work or projects - remind them of your name and one key detail about yourself - include a clear and concise subject line - end with a polite closing and your contact information
One of the best ways to strengthen a new connection is by offering something of value. This doesn't necessarily mean a physical gift or favor; it could be an article, a piece of advice, or an introduction to another professional in your network that aligns with their interests or needs. By providing value, you're showing that you're not just interested in what they can do for you, but also in what you can do for them. This reciprocal approach lays the foundation for a strong and enduring professional relationship.
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This is absolute must, this is what is expected of any follow up, so make sure to: - share relevant articles or resources related to their field - provide insights or tips based on your expertise that could help with their projects - invite them to events, webinars, or workshops that might interest them - send a summary of a useful book or report you think they would appreciate - offer to collaborate on a project or initiative - share industry news or trends that could be valuable to them - recommend tools or software that might enhance their work - provide feedback or suggestions on something they are working on - offer a free consultation or a trial of a service you provide
Following up isn't a one-time task; it's about building and maintaining a relationship. After your initial follow-up, continue to engage with your new contact periodically. Share updates about your work or industry, congratulate them on their achievements, and check in to see how they're doing. By staying consistent in your communication, you keep the relationship active and show that your interest extends beyond the initial interaction. This can lead to more opportunities for collaboration and support in the future.
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In today’s digital era, we often find ourselves juggling multiple platforms to build connections. With so many options, it’s easy to neglect one, resulting in a dormant account and waning interest from our network. To avoid this, it's crucial to maintain an active presence. Consistency is key—regularly engage with your contacts, share relevant content, and respond to messages. By staying active and showing genuine interest, you’ll keep your network vibrant and engaged. A well-maintained network opens doors to new opportunities and fosters professional growth.
In today's digital age, there are numerous tools available to help manage your professional relationships. Use contact management systems, calendar reminders, or networking platforms to keep track of when you last contacted someone and when to follow up again. These tools can help ensure that no one falls through the cracks and that you're able to maintain regular contact with all your networking connections. They also help you stay organized, so you're always prepared for a follow-up or a chance encounter.
While following up is important, it's equally crucial to respect the boundaries of your new contacts. If someone doesn't respond to your follow-up, give them space and time before reaching out again. Be mindful of their preferred method of communication and their time. Some people might prefer a quick email over a phone call, while others might only want to engage during business hours. Paying attention to these details shows respect for their preferences and can help ensure that your follow-up efforts are well-received.
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Here is a set of useful advices to follow, from my personal experience in doing this daily: - follow up within a few days of your initial meeting - keep your message short and to the point - maintain a polite and professional tone - be clear about why you’re reaching out and what you hope to achieve - call to action -> include a specific request or next step - thank them for their time or the conversation - follow-up plan -> mention when you will follow up again if you don’t hear back - proofread -> check for any typos or errors before sending -ensure your follow-up aligns with any commitments or statements made during the initial contact - respect their preferred method of communication (if you are familiar with it)
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