Networking: Follow Up

Professional follow-up is a key part in turning a single conversation into an ongoing professional networking relationship. 

Steps to Follow up

  • Be Timely: Follow up with a thank-you note within 24 hours, by email. 
  • Include Specifics: Refer to something valuable or interesting you learned in the meeting. 
  • Build Connection: This is a great opportunity to ask to connect on LinkedIn if you haven’t already. 
  • Report on Recommended Action: If you connect with one of their contacts or do something they recommended, let them know! 

Follow-Up Email Template

After an informational interview or other networking conversation, you might send a follow-up email like this: 

Dear John, 

Thank you for talking to me about your job in data science. I am excited to learn that it is a growing field and will make sure to take relevant courses at BU. I sent your colleague, Jade Doe, an email yesterday, and we have a meeting scheduled for Thursday to connect. I’ll update you on our discussion. I hope we can connect on LinkedIn; I just sent you an invite. 

Looking forward to staying in touch. Have a great day! 

Regards, 

Your Name