How to follow up after networking
Most networking goes nowhere because nobody follows up. Here is how to do it so it reads as useful rather than pushy.
Updated 26 October 2026 · 3 minute read
The short answer
Send one short message within a day or two that mentions something specific from your conversation and suggests one clear next step, such as a 20 minute call. Make it easy to say no. If there is no reply, send one friendly nudge about a week later, then leave it.
When to send it
Within a day or two, while you are both still remembered. Later is still better than never, but say where you met, because they will have met plenty of people that evening.
What to say
Four parts, in this order: where you met, the specific thing you talked about, one next step, and an easy way out.
"Good to meet you at the roundtable on Thursday. You mentioned you were looking for someone to take over your payroll. I would be glad to show you how we do it for two other agencies. Would a 20 minute call next week work? If the timing is wrong, no problem at all."
Leave out the full pitch. The aim of a follow up is a second conversation, not a sale.
Give something first where you can
The strongest follow ups carry something useful: an introduction to a person they said they wanted to meet, a supplier you trust, or the article you mentioned. It costs you little and it is remembered.
If they do not reply
Send one short nudge about a week later. If that goes unanswered, stop; people are busy, and the relationship is worth more than the reply. Make a note and say hello at the next event.
Keep track of who you met
Write down who you met, what they need and what you promised. On GrowthSync, once two members have both said yes you can message each other, schedule a meeting and mark it complete afterwards, which builds a record on your profile that you turn up when you say you will.
Common questions
How soon should I follow up after a networking event?
Within a day or two, while you are both still remembered. Mention where you met and something specific from your conversation.
How many times should I follow up?
Once, then one friendly nudge about a week later if there is no reply. After that, leave it and say hello next time you meet.
Should I pitch in a follow up message?
No. Suggest one small next step, such as a short call, and make it easy to say no. The aim is a second conversation.
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