The Networking Playbook Part 3: Follow-Up

To put the finishing bow on our three-part series on The Networking Playbook, let’s discuss the most important phase: Following up.

As a career coach, I constantly teach people this game-changing concept:

If you didn’t write it down, it didn’t happen.

In essence, if you are not tracking your job search efforts, you really have no control over it.

In terms of networking, we need to add an even more important concept:

If you don’t follow up, you waste all your networking time and effort.

Today, we will explore the importance of following up and, even more importantly, give you some tools to solidify your new connections.

Why Following Up Matters

In Part 2 of The Networking Playbook, we explored all the ways you can “show up” to build your network, including live events, social media strategies, and virtual groups.

How often do you send emails, LinkedIn invites, or direct messages to your new contacts?

Networking is about building genuine, lasting relationships.

A well-timed follow-up solidifies new relationships and reinforces your existing ones. It shows that you value them not only as a professional connection but also as a person. This leaves a lasting impression on the other person, increasing the likelihood that they’ll remember you when opportunities arise.

Timing Is Key

The best time to follow up is within 24-48 hours of your initial interaction. That way, the conversation is still fresh in both your minds. Waiting too long can make your follow-up seem less sincere or even awkward. If you missed this window, don’t worry—a thoughtful follow-up is better late than never.

Crafting Effective LinkedIn Follow-Up Messages for Different Scenarios

LinkedIn provides an excellent platform for maintaining and nurturing professional connections. Below are strategies and examples of messages you can use to follow up effectively. One note: Don’t just pump your new connection for what you want out of them. Consider how you can add value to their life, even if it is just as simple as sharing an interesting article or expressing genuine gratitude for their efforts.

1. After Meeting at an Event

• Strategy: Remind the person of where you met and mention something specific you discussed.
• Example Message: Hi [Name], it was great meeting you at [event name]! I really enjoyed our conversation about [specific topic]. I’d love to stay in touch and learn more about your work at [their company]. Let’s connect!

2. After a Job Application Referral or Career Advice

• Strategy: Express gratitude and share any updates.
• Example Message: Hi [Name], thank you again for referring me to [role/company] or for sharing your advice about [specific topic]. I wanted to let you know I’ve [applied/interviewed/etc.] and truly appreciate your support. I’ll keep you updated and hope to stay in touch.

3. To Stay Top-of-Mind

• Strategy: Share relevant content or ask a thoughtful question.
• Example Message: Hi [Name], I came across this article about [specific topic] and thought of our conversation about [related subject]. I’d love to hear your thoughts on it. How are things going with [their project/initiative]?

Best Practices for Follow-Up

1. Be Authentic: Generic messages don’t stand out. Tailor your follow-up to each person based on your prior interaction.
2. Be Concise: Respect the recipient’s time by keeping your messages brief and to the point.
3. Provide Value: Whether you share an article, offer assistance, or show interest in their work, make your follow-up worthwhile.
4. Be Patient: Don’t expect an immediate response. People are busy, and it may take them time to reply.

Don’t Succumb to “Analysis Paralysis”

Far too many job seekers fail to take fast action to follow up with someone because they want to create the “perfect message.”

Guess what? Nothing is perfect!

The key to following up is SPEED over PERFECTION. That’s why we keep those messages short and sweet. It’s more important to reinforce the connection within the 24- to 48-hour mark. Once they reply to that message, then you can take it to the next level to set up an informational interview or other tactic to deepen the relationship.

Final Thoughts

Massive gains are made through small and consistent actions.

When you make it a habit to follow up with every connection, the value of your network increases exponentially. Make it a habit, and you’ll be surprised at how far it can take you.

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