The actual work begins after the networking occasion, Coldwell Banker Warburg’s Kevelyn Guzman writes. Listed here are seven tricks to make significant connections post-event.
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Networking occasions are greater than exchanging enterprise playing cards — they’re about opening doorways to potentialities you didn’t even know existed.
I keep in mind attending a lunch the place an off-the-cuff dialog become a game-changing partnership. By following up with intention and authenticity, I constructed a relationship with somebody who later grew to become a sponsor for one in every of my largest occasions. That second proved to me that the actual energy of networking lies in what occurs after the occasion.
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Listed here are some actionable methods that will help you not solely stand out however flip these fleeting introductions into significant, impactful relationships.
1. Ship a well timed message
Timing is all the things. Relying on when the occasion happens, goal to ship a follow-up message promptly whereas the interplay continues to be contemporary of their thoughts.
Make your message private and particular. Reference one thing memorable out of your dialog to point out that you just have been totally engaged.
For instance:
“It was great meeting you at the event tonight! I enjoyed our chat about [specific topic]. Let’s stay in touch!” This small however real gesture can set you aside.
2. Add them to your distribution record
For example, if you understand they’re within the luxurious actual property market, share a market replace highlighting developments or latest transactions. The hot button is relevance and high quality, guaranteeing they see your communication as useful quite than self-serving.
3. Join on social media
Social media platforms, reminiscent of LinkedIn and Instagram, are highly effective instruments for staying related after an preliminary assembly. Ship a connection request on LinkedIn, or observe them on Instagram shortly after the occasion. Once you do, add a customized word thanking them for the dialog.
For instance:
“It was great meeting you at the event last night! I’d love to stay connected here.”
This strategy not solely retains you of their community but additionally supplies alternatives to interact with their content material — liking, commenting or sharing their posts to maintain the connection energetic and significant.
4. Invite them to one thing significant
Deepening a connection typically requires creating shared experiences. In case you have an upcoming occasion — reminiscent of a market presentation, charity gala or group gathering — contemplate extending an invite. Alternatively, if you understand of an occasion they could get pleasure from or discover precious, share the main points with them.
For instance:
“I remember you mentioning your interest in sustainable architecture. Have you checked out the latest pop-up exhibition at The Shed in Hudson Yards? It’s supposed to be an amazing blend of innovation and design. Let me know if you’d like to go — I’d love to join you!”
This gesture exhibits that you just’ve been listening and are genuinely thinking about their passions or priorities.
5. Create a cause to achieve out once more
Constructing genuine relationships requires consistency and worth. Discover causes to observe up — maybe by sharing an article associated to a subject you mentioned, introducing them to somebody in your community or checking in on a mutual curiosity. These small contact factors exhibit thoughtfulness and maintain the connection alive.
For example, for those who mentioned a selected ebook or podcast on the occasion, ship a fast message every week later:
“I just started reading [Book Title] that we talked about — you were right, it’s fantastic! Would love to hear your thoughts on it.”
These follow-ups really feel natural and assist deepen the connection.
6. Present real curiosity
The muse of any genuine relationship is real curiosity. Take note of the non-public particulars they share throughout your dialog or on social media. In the event that they point out a favourite restaurant, pastime or group, reference it in your follow-up.
For instance:
“I remember you mentioned loving XYZ Restaurant. I’d love to hear your go-to dish — I’m always looking for new recommendations!”
“It was great hearing about your work with [organization name]. I’d love to learn more about how you got involved.”
In the event that they’re mother and father, a easy point out of a family-friendly occasion or useful resource can even go away a constructive impression. These considerate particulars present you see them as an individual, not only a potential deal.
7. Reveal care past enterprise
Individuals keep in mind and belief those that make them really feel valued past a transactional relationship. Incorporating private touches into your follow-up technique units you aside and builds belief. For example, sending a handwritten thank-you word for a significant dialog can go away a long-lasting impression in immediately’s digital age.
Once you persistently present that you just care about their pursuits, values and well-being, you create a robust basis for a relationship that lasts. It’s these genuine human connections that finally result in long-term partnerships and alternatives.
The key to efficient follow-ups is authenticity. By displaying real curiosity, providing worth and staying constant in your outreach, you’ll stand out in a crowded area. Relationships constructed on belief and mutual respect don’t simply profit your corporation — they create significant connections that enrich your skilled and private life.
So the following time you stroll out of a networking occasion, keep in mind: It’s not nearly gathering enterprise playing cards; it’s about constructing actual, lasting relationships.
Kevelyn Guzman serves as regional vice chairman at Coldwell Banker Warburg. Join along with her on Instagram and Linkedin.
