1. Personalize Your Messages

Craft messages that resonate with each individual. After a networking event, it’s essential to make your follow-up engaging and personalized. Instead of sending out a generic message, refer to specific conversations you had. This shows genuine interest and helps you stand out in the recipient's mind. For instance, if you discussed a particular book, mention that in your email and ask if they've finished it yet.

2. Leverage Social Media Platforms

Utilize LinkedIn for meaningful interactions. After a networking event, taking the conversation to platforms like LinkedIn can keep the dialogue going. Connect with your new contacts on social media, but ensure to add a personal note when you send a connection request. This opens the door for you to engage with their posts, comment thoughtfully, or share relevant articles that align with their interests.

3. Follow Up with a Unique Gesture

A memorable follow-up can include creative touches. Consider sending a handwritten note or a small branded gift that aligns with the event’s theme or industry context. Such gestures leave a lasting impression and demonstrate that you value the connection. For example, if you’re in the tech field, a quirky USB drive can serve as a useful and memorable item.

4. Schedule a Coffee or Video Call

Invite them for a casual chat to deepen connections. Nothing beats face-to-face communication, even if it's virtual. Propose a casual coffee meet-up or a brief video call to discuss mutual interests or professional projects. This can create a more personal connection and makes it easier to collaborate on future endeavors. Even a 20-minute chat can open various doors.

5. Share Helpful Resources

Providing value creates a reciprocal relationship. One unique way to follow up is by sharing articles, tools, or resources relevant to your new contact's field or interests. This not only helps them but reinforces your role as an asset within their network. For instance, if you know someone is entering the marketing space, sharing insights about the latest social media trends can be beneficial.

6. Initiate an Industry-Related Meetup

Host your own event and invite connections. Creating opportunities fosters deeper relationships. Organize an industry-related meetup or discussion group, inviting the contacts you’ve met. This not only puts you on the map as a facilitator within your industry but also strengthens connections among attendees. It can be as simple as a breakfast briefing or a virtual roundtable discussion.

7. Create a Follow-Up Schedule

Regular follow-ups can maintain relationships. Establish a calendar reminder to reach out to your contacts periodically. Use a system to track who you’ve met and when you last communicated with them. This can help you build a consistent routine of checking in, thus ensuring you stay top of mind. A simple system can work wonders for your networking strategy.

The Art of the Follow-Up: 7 Unique Ways to Stay Connected After Networking Events

Practical steps to effectively follow up include:

• 1. Personalize your messages based on past conversations.
• 2. Connect on LinkedIn with a personalized note.
• 3. Send a handwritten thank you note or gift.
• 4. Schedule casual coffee or video calls to converse.
• 5. Share relevant articles or resources.
• 6. Organize an industry-related meetup.
• 7. Create a calendar to track and schedule follow-ups.