Networking: The Fortune is in the Follow-Up. Why Every Networking Meeting Needs a Next Step is the topic of this blog.
When it comes to networking, attending meetings is just the beginning. The real magic happens after the meeting, when you follow up, nurture relationships, and turn new connections into long-term business opportunities.
I’ve been networking for over 20 years, and one thing I’ve seen time and time again is that the people who take follow-up seriously are the ones who get the best results. It doesn’t matter whether you’re new to networking or you’ve been doing it for years, how you follow up can make all the difference to your networking success. It’s the difference between random networking and networking with purpose.
So, let’s explore why follow-up is essential, how failing to do it can damage your reputation, and practical ways to ensure you’re making the most of every networking opportunity.
Why Follow-Up is Important in Networking
Networking isn’t just about exchanging business cards or adding someone on LinkedIn. It’s about building genuine relationships, and that takes time and effort.
Think about it. If you meet someone at a networking meeting and never follow up, how will they remember you? More importantly, how will they know how they can help you or how you can help them?
Following up:
- Reinforces your introduction and keeps you top of their mind.
- Shows professionalism and reliability.
- Opens the door for deeper conversations and collaborations.
- Helps build trust, which is essential for referrals.
People do business with those they know, like, and trust, and that trust is built through consistent, meaningful interactions.
Do What You Say You Will Do
A big part of successful networking is being dependable. If you tell someone you’ll send them an email, make an introduction, or arrange a one-to-one chat, follow through.
I’ve seen it happen so many times. Someone leaves a networking meeting full of enthusiasm, promising to connect or send information, and then… nothing. No follow-up. No email. No call.
It’s not necessarily intentional. Life gets busy. But failing to follow up can leave the wrong impression. It suggests that you’re either disorganised or not genuinely interested in building the relationship. Neither of those things will help you grow your network.
Make it a habit:
- If you promise to send something, do it within 24 to 48 hours.
- If you say you’ll book a follow-up meeting, get a date in the diary straight away.
- If you commit to making an introduction, follow through promptly.
People notice when you’re reliable, and reliability builds trust. Next time you book to attend a networking meeting or event, schedule time in your diary either later that day or the following day specifically for follow-up. I have a daily task in my diary to follow-up after all of our Better Networking Hubs meetings. This means, I’m following up and making referral introductions on a daily basis
The Damage That Can Be Done If You Don’t Follow Up
Not following up isn’t just a missed opportunity. It can actually harm your reputation.
Imagine you meet someone who seems genuinely interested in your business. They promise to send you details of a potential referral but never do. How would that make you feel? Probably a bit let down.
Now flip that scenario. If you’re the one who forgets to follow up, the other person may feel the same way about you. Over time, that can damage your credibility and make people less likely to refer business your way.
Networking isn’t about quick wins. It’s about long-term relationships, and in any relationship, trust and consistency matter.
Ways to Follow Up After a Networking Meeting
The good news? Following up doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Here are some easy yet effective ways to keep the conversation going:
1. Send a Personalised Email
A quick, friendly email after the meeting goes a long way. Mention something specific from your conversation to show you were listening.
For example:
“Hi [Name], it was great chatting at the networking meeting today. I really enjoyed our conversation about [topic]. As promised, here’s the link to [resource]. Let’s set up a time to grab a coffee or have a quick call. I’d love to hear more about what you do!”
2. Connect on LinkedIn
If you haven’t already, send a personalised connection request. Avoid the generic “I’d like to connect” message. Instead, reference your meeting:
“Hi [Name], I really enjoyed meeting you at [Networking Group]. I’d love to stay in touch and learn more about your work!”
3. Arrange a One-to-One Meeting
One-to-ones are where deeper connections are built. Take the initiative to set up a short meeting, whether in person or online. This is your chance to find out how you can help each other and build a meaningful business relationship. Remember, a one-to-one isn’t about selling. On the contrary, it’s about engaging, listening, understanding, so that you can try and refer business to each other in the future.
4. Engage With Their Content
If they’re active on LinkedIn or other platforms, engage with their posts. Like, comment, or share their content. It’s a simple way to stay on their radar without being pushy.
5. Keep the Relationship Warm
Not every follow-up needs to be about business. Sometimes, a simple “Hope you’re doing well” message a few weeks later is enough to keep the relationship going.
Networking is Your Net Worth
You may have heard the phrase “Your network is your net worth.” It’s true. The stronger your network, the more opportunities you’ll have, whether that’s new clients, referrals, partnerships, or valuable business insights.
But a strong network isn’t just about who you know. It’s about who knows you and remembers you. And that only happens if you stay in touch and nurture your relationships.
At Better Networking Hubs, our networking groups in Rossendale, Accrington, Preston, and Rochdale provide the perfect environment to meet like-minded business owners, grow your connections, and develop long-term referral relationships. But even the best networking meeting won’t help if you don’t take action afterwards.
Final Thoughts
If you’re investing time in networking, make sure you’re getting the best possible return by following up effectively.
- Be proactive. Don’t wait for others to contact you.
- Do what you say you will. Your reputation depends on it.
- Use simple follow-up methods. Emails, LinkedIn, and one-to-ones work wonders.
- Build relationships, not just connections. People refer those they trust.
If you’re new to networking or looking to improve your approach, why not visit one of our Better Networking Hubs? We run friendly, professional networking meetings in Lancashire and Manchester, designed to help you build lasting business relationships.
Find out more here or book a visitor place at one of our upcoming meetings.
The fortune really is in the follow-up, so make the most of every opportunity!
I’m Chartered Marketer and networking expert, Tracy Heatley, and I hope you found this Networking: The Fortune is in the Follow-Up
blog useful. Do Get in touch if we can be of assistance with your business networking.
