I still remember the countless times I’ve seen talented professionals get lost in the shuffle after a big networking event. They’d meet people, exchange business cards, and then… nothing. It’s like they expected the connections to magically turn into job opportunities on their own. But the truth is, how to write a follow-up email after networking is a crucial step that can make all the difference. I’ve seen it time and time again as a former corporate recruiter: a well-crafted follow-up email can be the catalyst that turns a casual connection into a meaningful relationship, and eventually, a job offer.
So, what sets a great follow-up email apart from a mediocre one? In this article, I’ll share my insider knowledge on how to write a follow-up email after networking that actually gets noticed. You’ll learn how to craft a message that’s both personal and professional, and how to avoid common pitfalls that can make your email end up in the trash. I’ll provide you with practical tips and real-life examples to help you write a follow-up email that will keep you top of mind for the people you’ve met, and increase your chances of landing an interview or even a job offer. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with the skills to turn your networking efforts into tangible results.
Table of Contents
- Guide Overview: What You'll Need
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mastering Follow Up Emails
- Sealing the Deal: 5 Essential Tips for Writing a Follow-Up Email After Networking
- Key Takeaways for Writing a Follow-Up Email That Gets You Noticed
- The Power of Persistence
- Sealing the Deal with a Perfect Follow-Up
- Frequently Asked Questions
Guide Overview: What You'll Need
Total Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Estimated Cost: $0 – $10
Difficulty Level: Easy
Tools Required
- Computer (with internet connection)
- Email Account (with access to email client)
Supplies & Materials
- Pre-written Email Template (optional)
- Business Card (for reference)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1. First, take a moment to reflect on the conversations you had during the networking event, and make a list of the people you met and the discussions you had with them. This will help you personalize your follow-up emails and ensure that you’re sending the right message to the right person.
- 2. Next, gather your materials, including the business cards of the people you met, any notes you took during the event, and your computer or phone with your email account open. Having everything you need in one place will make it easier to craft a compelling email that resonates with your new contacts.
- 3. Now, start writing your email, beginning with a strong subject line that grabs the reader’s attention and makes them want to open the message. Keep it short and to the point, and make sure it’s relevant to the conversation you had with the person. For example, “Great meeting you at the tech conference” or “Following up on our discussion about industry trends”.
- 4. In the body of the email, be clear and concise about your intentions and what you’re hoping to achieve. Reiterate your interest in the company or industry, and mention any specific topics or projects you discussed during the event. This will help the reader remember you and understand why you’re emailing them.
- 5. As you write, focus on adding value to the email, rather than just asking for something. Offer to help or provide information that might be useful to the reader, such as an article or resource related to your conversation. This will help you build a connection with the person and establish yourself as a trusted and knowledgeable professional.
- 6. Next, proofread your email carefully to ensure that it’s free of errors and easy to read. Use a professional tone and format, with a clear and concise structure that’s easy to follow. Avoid using jargon or overly technical language, and make sure your message is accessible to a wide audience.
- 7. Finally, include a clear call to action in your email, such as a request to schedule a follow-up meeting or discussion. Make it easy for the reader to respond or take the next step, by providing your contact information and a clear sense of what you’re looking for. This will help you move the conversation forward and build momentum in your networking efforts.
Mastering Follow Up Emails
When it comes to building professional relationships through email, the key is to be strategic and intentional. This means taking the time to research the person you’re emailing and tailoring your message to their interests and needs. By doing so, you can create a sense of mutual benefit and increase the likelihood of a positive response.
Effective email subject lines for networking are also crucial, as they can make or break whether your email gets opened. I always advise my clients to keep their subject lines clear and concise, and to include a personal touch whenever possible. This can be as simple as referencing a conversation you had with the person at the networking event, or mentioning a shared connection.
In terms of what to include in a follow-up email after meeting, I recommend keeping it brief and to the point. A simple expression of gratitude for the person’s time, along with a brief recap of your conversation, can go a long way. You can also use this opportunity to reiterate your interest in potential opportunities, and to ask if there’s any additional information you can provide to support your application.
Crafting Effective Email Subject Lines
When it comes to follow-up emails, your subject line is make-or-break. It’s the first thing the recipient sees, and it can either pique their interest or send your email to the trash. I’ve seen countless emails with subject lines like “Follow-up on our meeting” – yawn. Instead, try to craft a subject line that adds value or references a specific conversation you had. For example, “Next steps on the project we discussed” or “Article I mentioned during our meeting”. This shows you’re paying attention and helps your email stand out in a crowded inbox.
Keep it short, clear, and personalized. Avoid generic phrases or overly salesy language. Your goal is to get the recipient to open the email, not to sell them something in the subject line itself. By crafting a thoughtful and relevant subject line, you’ll increase the chances of your email being read and responded to.
Timing Your Follow Up for Maximum Impact
To maximize impact, timing is everything. I always advise my clients to send their follow-up emails within 24 hours of meeting someone new. This ensures that you’re still top of mind and shows that you’re proactive and interested in next steps. Any longer than that, and you risk being forgotten in the chaos of daily life.
Send your email at the right time of day, too – I recommend early morning or late afternoon. Avoid Mondays and Fridays, when inboxes are typically overflowing. By striking while the iron is hot and being mindful of your recipient’s schedule, you’ll increase the chances of getting a response and starting a meaningful conversation.
Sealing the Deal: 5 Essential Tips for Writing a Follow-Up Email After Networking
- Keep it concise and focused, avoiding generic phrases and instead highlighting a specific conversation or connection made during the event
- Use a clear and direct subject line that references the networking event or a personal connection, making it easy for the recipient to recall the meeting
- Include a clear call-to-action, such as scheduling a follow-up meeting or discussion, to demonstrate enthusiasm and interest in potential opportunities
- Add value to the email by sharing relevant information, such as an article or industry insight, that shows you’ve been thinking about the conversation and are invested in the recipient’s interests
- Proofread and personalize the email, using the recipient’s name and referencing specific details from your conversation, to create a sense of familiarity and build a stronger connection
Key Takeaways for Writing a Follow-Up Email That Gets You Noticed
Keep your follow-up email concise, personalized, and focused on the value you can bring to the organization or connection you’re reaching out to
Timing is everything: send your follow-up email within 24 hours of meeting someone new, and make sure it’s at a time when the recipient is likely to be checking their emails
Craft a subject line that grabs attention without being too pushy or generic – use the person’s name, reference a shared interest or conversation topic, and keep it under 5 words for maximum impact
The Power of Persistence
A follow-up email after networking isn’t just a polite gesture – it’s a strategic move that can make all the difference between being remembered and being forgotten, between getting hired and getting overlooked.
Morgan Wells
Sealing the Deal with a Perfect Follow-Up
As we’ve covered, mastering the art of writing a follow-up email after networking is all about strategic timing, crafting effective subject lines, and providing value to the recipient. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to making a lasting impression and potentially landing your dream job. Remember, the goal of a follow-up email is not only to keep yourself top of mind but also to build a connection with the people you’ve met, and to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the industry or role.
So, the next time you’re wondering how to turn a casual networking encounter into a meaningful opportunity, recall the power of a well-written follow-up email. With practice and patience, you’ll become a pro at sealing the deal and taking your career to the next level. Always keep in mind that playing the game is a learnable skill, and with the right strategies, you can get paid what you’re truly worth and achieve the success you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to personalize a follow-up email without coming across as too pushy or aggressive?
To personalize a follow-up email without being too pushy, reference a specific conversation or shared interest from your initial meeting. This shows you’re genuinely engaged and helps build rapport. For example, mention a project or challenge they discussed, and express your enthusiasm for contributing to it.
How long should I wait before sending a follow-up email after a networking event, and what if I don't get a response?
I recommend waiting 3-5 business days before sending a follow-up email, allowing the other person to process our meeting. If you don’t get a response, don’t take it personally – send a second follow-up 7-10 days later, reiterating your interest and value proposition.
Can I use a follow-up email to ask for a meeting or interview, or should I keep it brief and only reiterate my interest in the company?
Absolutely, use a follow-up email to ask for a meeting or interview – it’s a great way to take the conversation to the next level. Keep your ask concise and specific, such as “I’d love to discuss potential opportunities over coffee” – this shows you’re interested in exploring further, not just sending a generic follow-up.
