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Mastering the Follow Up Email After Networking: Your Ultimate Guide
Valeria
/ Updated 24 august
Networking is a powerful tool for career growth.
Meeting new people opens doors to many opportunities.
However, the real magic happens after the initial handshake.
Sending a strong follow up email after networking is vital for success.
Did you know that only about 20-30% of people send a follow up email after networking? This creates a massive opportunity for you to stand out. Studies show that a well-timed follow-up can increase your chances of securing a meeting or opportunity by up to 70%. It's not just about being remembered; it's about demonstrating initiative and respect for the connection you've made. Don't let your valuable conversations fade away into forgotten memories.
The Power of the Follow Up Email After Networking
A simple email can turn a brief chat into a lasting professional bond.
It shows your professionalism and genuine interest.
This small effort can set you apart from others.
It helps you build a strong and supportive network over time.
Why a Follow Up Email is Crucial for Relationship Building
People meet many individuals at networking events.
A timely email helps them remember you.
It acts as a gentle reminder of your conversation.
This step is key to moving from an acquaintance to a valuable contact.
Turning Connections into Opportunities with a Strategic Follow Up
Your email can open doors to new collaborations.
It might lead to job referrals or mentorship.
A well-crafted message can highlight your unique value.
This makes your connection more likely to help you.
The Long-Term Benefits of a Well-Executed Follow Up Email After Networking
Strong relationships are built over time.
A good follow-up starts this process.
It shows you are reliable and thoughtful.
These qualities are highly valued in any professional setting.
Timing and Personalization: When and How to Send Your Follow Up Email
Sending your email at the right time is important.
Personalizing your message makes it stand out.
These two factors greatly impact your email's effectiveness.
They help ensure your message gets noticed and remembered.
Optimal Timing for Your Follow Up Email After Networking
Send your email within 24-48 hours of meeting someone.
This ensures the conversation is still fresh in their mind.
Waiting too long can make your message less impactful.
Act quickly to maximize your chances of a response.
| Timeframe | Reason |
|---|---|
| Within 24 hours | Conversation is fresh, shows promptness. |
| Within 48 hours | Still good, allows for a busy schedule. |
| After 48 hours | Less effective, risk of being forgotten. |
Tailoring Your Message: Personalization Strategies
Mention something specific you discussed.
This shows you paid attention during your conversation.
Referencing a shared interest or a specific topic works well.
Personalization makes your email feel genuine, not generic.
- Recall a shared laugh or story: This creates an emotional connection and makes your email instantly memorable.
- Mention a specific problem they discussed: If they shared a challenge, briefly acknowledge it and perhaps hint at a solution you might offer.
- Reference future plans: If they mentioned an upcoming project or event, you can express interest or offer support.
- Suggest a relevant resource: Share an article, tool, or contact that directly relates to your conversation, showing you thought about their needs.
These small but significant touches elevate your follow up email after networking from a formality to a meaningful interaction, making you stand out in a crowded inbox.
How to Reference Your Conversation Effectively
Start by reminding them where you met.
For example, "It was a pleasure meeting you at the [Event Name] last night."
Then, recall a specific detail from your chat.
This helps them connect your name to the interaction quickly.
Crafting the Perfect Follow Up Email After Networking: Key Elements
A strong email has several key parts.
Each part plays a role in making your message effective.
Focus on clarity, brevity, and value.
This ensures your recipient understands your purpose quickly.
Essential Components of a Strong Follow Up Email
Always include a clear subject line.
Start with a polite greeting and a reminder of your meeting.
Mention a specific point from your conversation.
State your purpose and include a clear call to action.
- Clear Subject Line: Grab attention.
- Personalized Greeting: Address them by name.
- Context Reminder: Where and when you met.
- Specific Reference: A detail from your chat.
- Value Proposition: Why you're reaching out.
- Call to Action: What you want to happen next.
- Professional Closing: Thank them for their time.
Subject Lines That Get Your Follow Up Email Opened
Keep subject lines short and descriptive.
Include your name and the event name, if applicable.
For example, "Following up from [Event Name] - [Your Name]."
A good subject line makes your email easy to spot in a busy inbox.
| Type | Example |
|---|---|
| General | Great meeting you at [Event Name] - [Your Name] |
| Specific Topic | Regarding our chat about [Topic] - [Your Name] |
| Referral | [Referral Name] suggested I connect - [Your Name] |
Call to Action: What's Next After Your Follow Up Email?
Be clear about what you want to happen next.
Do you want to schedule a coffee chat?
Are you asking for an introduction?
Make your request easy to understand and fulfill.
Crafting Effective Calls to Action
| Goal | Weak CTA Example | Strong CTA Example |
|---|---|---|
| Connect Further | "Let's keep in touch." | "Would you be open to a brief 15-minute virtual coffee next week to discuss [topic]?" |
| Seek Advice | "Can I pick your brain sometime?" | "I'd love your insights on [specific challenge]. Could I send you a quick email with my question?" |
| Explore Opportunity | "I'm interested in working together." | "I noticed your company is [doing X]. My experience in [Y] could be valuable. Would you be open to a quick chat about potential synergies?" |
| Share Resource | "I'll send you something." | "I found an article on [topic] that reminded me of our chat. Would you like me to forward it?" |
A clear, low-commitment call to action significantly increases the likelihood of a positive response to your follow up email after networking, guiding your contact to the next logical step.
Effective Follow Up Email After Networking Templates
Templates can help you start your emails.
Remember to always personalize them.
These examples provide a solid foundation.
Adjust them to fit your specific situation and recipient.
Template 1: General Networking Follow Up Email
Subject: Great to connect at [Event Name] - [Your Name]
Hi [Contact Name],
It was a pleasure meeting you at [Event Name] yesterday.
I really enjoyed our conversation about [specific topic or shared interest].
I found your insights on [another specific point] particularly interesting.
If you're open to it, I'd love to connect on LinkedIn to stay in touch.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Company]
Template 2: Job Opportunity Focused Follow Up Email
Subject: Following up from [Event Name] - [Your Name] - [Job Title Interest]
Dear [Contact Name],
Thank you again for speaking with me at [Event Name] on [Date].
I especially appreciated your advice regarding [specific advice given, e.g., "breaking into the tech industry"].
Our discussion about [Company Name]'s work in [specific area] truly excited me.
I am very interested in the [Job Title] role and believe my skills in [relevant skill] would be a great fit.
Would you be open to a brief call next week to discuss this further?
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
When pursuing job opportunities, a strong follow up email after networking can make a significant difference. It reinforces your interest and professionalism, potentially moving your application to the top. For recruiters and HR teams, managing a high volume of applications and follow-ups can be challenging. This is where platforms like CVShelf come into play. CVShelf streamlines the hiring process by intelligently screening resumes and automating recruitment tasks, ensuring that promising candidates, like those who send impactful follow-up emails, don't get overlooked. It helps companies identify top talent efficiently, making every connection count.
Template 3: Informational Interview Follow Up Email
Subject: Thank you for the informational interview - [Your Name]
Hi [Contact Name],
Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with me on [Date] about your career at [Company Name].
I learned a great deal from our conversation, especially about [specific insight or advice].
Your perspective on [another specific point] was truly valuable.
I am keen to explore similar paths and would appreciate any resources you might suggest.
I look forward to keeping in touch.
Warmly,
[Your Name]
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Follow Up Email
Even small errors can hurt your chances.
Knowing what to avoid is as important as knowing what to include.
These common pitfalls can make your email less effective.
Steer clear of them to maintain a professional image.
Generic Messages and Lack of Specificity
Sending a "one-size-fits-all" email is a big mistake.
It shows a lack of effort and genuine interest.
Always personalize your message with specific details.
Generic emails often end up in the trash.
Overly Promotional or Demanding Follow Up Emails
Your first follow-up is not for selling.
Avoid immediately asking for favors or making big demands.
Focus on building rapport and offering value first.
Be respectful of their time and position.
Proofreading and Professionalism: The Final Check
Always proofread your email carefully.
Typos and grammatical errors look unprofessional.
Use a spell checker, but also read it aloud.
A polished email reflects positively on you.
Beyond the First Email: Nurturing Your Network
One email is just the beginning.
Nurturing your network requires ongoing effort.
Think about how you can stay connected over time.
This long-term approach builds truly valuable relationships.
Strategies for Ongoing Engagement After Networking
Share relevant articles or resources with your contacts.
Congratulate them on promotions or company news.
Reach out periodically, but don't overdo it.
Offer help or support when you can.
Utilizing CRM Tools for Networking Follow Ups
Managing many contacts can be challenging.
Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tools can help.
They allow you to track interactions and set reminders.
For managing your professional connections and streamlining your outreach, consider using a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) tool. Popular options include HubSpot, Pipedrive, and Zoho CRM. These tools help you track interactions, set reminders, and manage your contacts effectively.
These tools often include features like contact management, email tracking, and automation to ensure you never miss an important follow-up.
Explore different pricing plans to find a solution that fits your needs for maintaining a robust network.
The Role of Social Media in Sustaining Professional Connections
Platforms like LinkedIn are excellent for staying connected.
Engage with your contacts' posts and updates.
Share your own insights and achievements.
Social media complements your email efforts for a holistic approach.
Mastering the follow up email after networking can truly change your career path.
It transforms casual meetings into meaningful relationships.
By following these tips, you will build a robust and supportive network.
Start sending those impactful follow-up emails today!
What should I do if I don't get a reply to my first follow up email after networking?
It is common not to get an immediate reply after sending a follow up email after networking.
Many people have busy inboxes.
Wait about a week before sending a second email.
This shows persistence without being pushy.
When sending a second follow up email after networking, avoid simply re-sending your first message. Instead, add new value or a fresh perspective. You might share a relevant article, mention a new development related to your previous discussion, or simply rephrase your initial request with a slightly different angle. For instance, you could say, "I hope this email finds you well. I was thinking about our conversation on [topic] and came across this article [link] which I thought you might find interesting." This approach demonstrates thoughtful engagement rather than just a reminder.
| Action | Recommended Time | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| First Follow-Up | Within 24-48 hours | Reinforce connection, express thanks |
| Second Follow-Up | 7-10 days after first | Gentle reminder, offer new value |
| Third Follow-Up (Optional) | 2-3 weeks after second | Last attempt, share a valuable resource |
How can I make my follow-up emails truly stand out?
Personalization is your best tool.
Refer to specific details from your conversation.
Offer something helpful or relevant to them.
A unique subject line can also catch their eye. You can find more tips on crafting strong subject lines here.
- Mention a unique shared interest.
- Share a relevant article or resource.
- Suggest a specific, low-commitment next step.
- Keep your message concise and easy to read.
Are there different types of follow-up emails for various networking situations?
Yes, your email should match the context of your meeting.
A general connection email differs from a job-focused one.
Always tailor your message to your goal.
This makes your outreach more effective.
| Situation | Key Focus | Example Call to Action |
|---|---|---|
| General Connection | Building rapport, staying in touch | "Connect on LinkedIn" |
| Job Opportunity | Expressing interest, asking for info | "Brief call to discuss a role" |
| Informational Interview | Thanking, seeking further advice | "Suggest resources, keep in touch" |
| Collaboration Idea | Proposing a project, partnership | "Schedule a meeting to brainstorm" |
Should I use AI tools to help write my follow-up emails?
AI tools can help you draft emails faster.
They can provide good starting points or refine your language.
Always personalize and review AI-generated content to keep it authentic.
For managing contacts and automating parts of your outreach, consider using a CRM tool.
- Pros: Saves time, helps with writer's block, improves grammar.
- Cons: Can sound generic, may miss personal nuances, requires careful editing.
- Best Use: As a first draft, for quick ideas, or for language refinement.
- Recommendation: Always add your personal touch to make it genuine.
How often should I follow up without being annoying?
Finding the right balance is key.
Your first follow-up should be within 24-48 hours.
A second, gentle reminder can be sent after about a week.
CRM tools often offer features to help you track these timings effectively.
| Attempt | Timing | Goal |
|---|---|---|
| Initial | 1-2 days post-meeting | Thank, remind, propose next step |
| Second | 7-10 days after initial | Gentle nudge, share new value |
| Third (Optional) | 2-3 weeks after second | Final check-in, offer a resource |
What kind of value can I offer in my follow-up email?
Offering value makes your email more impactful.
Think about what might be useful to your contact.
This shows you are thoughtful and resourceful.
It helps build a stronger, more reciprocal relationship.
Beyond the obvious, offering value can take many forms. Consider these additional ways to enrich your follow up email after networking and build genuine connections:
- Share an article or resource related to your conversation.
- Offer an introduction to someone in your network.
- Provide a solution to a problem they mentioned.
- Invite them to a relevant event or webinar.
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