When should we follow up?

As soon as possible – but not too soon!

One of the main things that’s often done poorly in the networking world is the follow-up – or lack of it! And the reality is that it’s so quick and easy to do!

But why should we bother following up with someone we’ve just met? Especially if we’ve been to an event, fallen behind with other work and have lots to do?

Because it’s the key connection between a short conversation and the start of a relationship. And that’s what makes networking very worthwhile.

So when should we follow up? Straight away, in the car park after the event??

Probably not – that’s a bit too keen! But certainly within 24 hours, when the event and conversations are fresh in everyone’s memory.

Try to view the follow-up as part of the process, NOT something that you’d like to do if only you weren’t so busy. Mark off some time that afternoon or the day after the event and you’re much, much more likely to do it. And the more consistently you do it, the more effective your relationship-building will be.