Beyond the event- turning chats into connections

Have you ever been to a networking event or business fair, felt a connection with some people, and then... nothing? You return to your daily routine, full of good intentions, but those business cards you collected end up gathering dust. Sound familiar? If this happens to you, know that you're not alone. For many of us, making connections at these events is the easy part. The challenge lies in what comes next — the follow-up.

Follow-Ups Are the Key to Success

Think about it: how many times have you left an event thinking, "I'll reach out later" — only to realize that weeks have passed without any contact? What kind of impression do you think this leaves on the other person? If you don't follow up, you risk being forgotten, or worse, being seen as someone who doesn't follow through. And let's be honest, nobody wants that reputation. Networking isn't about what happens at the event — it's about what happens afterward.

Turning Follow-Ups into Valuable Conversations

So, how do you make a follow-up feel meaningful, rather than mechanical? Here's something to reflect on: when was the last time you received a follow-up email that felt personalized, specific, and relevant to the conversation you had? How did it make you feel compared to receiving a generic, soulless message?

A valuable follow-up doesn't have to be complex. Maybe you reference something specific you discussed — a project, a mutual interest, or a shared goal. For example, instead of saying:

"Hey, it was great meeting you. Let's stay in touch."

You could say:

"Hi, it was great meeting you at the event. Did you catch the final panel? Also, I remember you mentioning a project on XYZ — I came across this article that might be helpful. Let me know if you want to discuss it further!"

What's the difference? You're offering something of value, showing that you listened, and making it easier for the conversation to continue.

Reflection: Are You Playing the Long Game?

Here's another point of reflection: are you viewing networking as a short-term win or a long-term strategy? Because, in most cases, the real payoff comes from nurturing relationships over time. It's rare that someone will offer you business or opportunities after just one meeting.

But think about this: what would happen if you consistently followed up, added value, and stayed in touch with the right people over months, even years? Wouldn't that lay a stronger foundation for future opportunities?

Practical Steps for a Successful Follow-Up

If you're still wondering how to master the art of follow-ups, here's what you can do:

• Create a follow-up routine: Don’t leave it for when you "have time." Set a specific time, perhaps a few days after the event, to reach out to the people you met.

• Personalize your message: Reference something specific from your conversation. Show that you listened and remember the details. Even better, offer a useful resource or insight.

• Keep the conversation open: Don’t send a message that closes the dialogue. Ask a question or make a suggestion that invites a response.

• Nurture your network regularly: Don’t reach out just once and leave it at that. Periodically check in, share something valuable, or simply ask how things are going.
  

Are You Ready to Follow Through?

Now, I want you to reflect on the last networking event or business fair you attended. Did you make any connections that seemed promising? Did you follow up in a way that showed you cared about building a lasting relationship? If not, don’t worry — there’s always another chance to get it right.

Next time you collect those business cards, remember: the real magic happens after the event. The follow-up is where you prove your credibility, offer value, and set the stage for future success.

So, what are you waiting for? Start following up, and see where those connections can take you.