We’ve used the Playbook Strategy to lay the groundwork and prepare our minds for a successful conference.
Stepping into the conference social dance, we’ve embraced the rhythm of networking with confidence.
Now, in this new series, we’ll be exploring the art of the post-conference follow-up.
To start, picture yourself as a chef in the grand kitchen of networking.
The conference has ended, but the ingredients you’ve gathered — the contacts, the conversations — are fresh and ready to be transformed into something delectable.
Like a culinary artist, your task is to take these raw interactions and craft them into memorable, long-lasting relationships. Let’s don our chef hats and aprons and explore the recipe for post-conference success.
The Timely Follow-Ups
Imagine the moments after a conference as the crucial time when your networking “pot” is on the stove, simmering with potential. The key to turning these fresh connections into a gourmet feast lies in the timing of your follow-up.
Just as a chef knows the perfect moment to add each ingredient to a dish, you must gauge the right time to rekindle the conversation with your new contacts.
Keeping Ingredients Fresh: Reach out while the memory of your meeting is still hot. Ideally, within 48 hours post-conference, send a personalized message. This shows attentiveness and eagerness to continue the dialogue.
First Contact Delicacy: Your initial follow-up should be light and flavorful, not overwhelming. A brief email or LinkedIn message that recalls a specific detail from your interaction shows you were genuinely engaged. It’s like adding a hint of seasoning to enhance, not overpower.
The Reminder Garnish: If you mentioned any resources or connections during your conversation, now’s the time to share them. Attach an article, link to a study, or offer that introduction you discussed. It’s the garnish that makes your follow-up memorable.
Simmer, Don’t Boil: After your initial follow-up, let the conversation simmer. Avoid the urge to turn up the heat with too many messages. Patience is a virtue in the kitchen and in networking. Allow them time to respond before reaching out again.
The Tasting Spoon: If you don’t receive a response, a gentle reminder after a week or so can be the equivalent of a chef’s tasting spoon. A simple message like, “Just wanted to make sure you received my last email,” can nudge the conversation without being intrusive.
By managing the heat of your follow-up interactions with care, you ensure that your networking efforts cook to perfection, resulting in a delightful array of professional relationships ready to be savored.
Don’t Let the Pot Boil Over: Timely Follow-Ups
√ Reach out within 48 hours of the conference.
√ Send personalized, concise messages to keep the conversation fresh.
Sejal Patel is a Rainmaking Consultant and the Founder of Sage Ivy, a New York-based consultancy dedicated to helping attorneys turn relationships into clients. With over 20 years of experience, Sejal strategically analyzes attorneys’ networks to uncover revenue and relationship opportunities, crafting individualized approaches that align with their unique strengths and styles. Learn more at www.sageivyconsulting.com.
