How Do I Follow Up After Networking Without Being Annoying?
Most people never follow up. That's exactly what makes following up so powerful.
A thoughtful follow-up shows professionalism, gratitude and genuine interest. It helps the other person remember who you are, and it makes them more likely to want to help you later. The real magic of networking happens after the event.
1. Follow up within 24 to 48 hours
Send a short message while the conversation is still fresh. Remind them who you are, thank them, and keep the tone warm. For example:
Hi (Name), it was great meeting you at (Event) yesterday. I really appreciated our conversation about (Topic). I'd love to stay in touch and will keep you posted on my progress. Thank you again! (Your Name)
Or:
Hi (Name), I appreciated your time at (Event). Your story about (Specific Detail) really inspired me. I'd be grateful to keep in touch and learn more as I continue growing in this field. Thanks again, (Your Name)
The specific detail matters. It proves you listened.
2. Keep your promise
If you said you'd keep them posted, do it. Send a short update after a month or two, or at the end of the semester:
Subject: Quick Update & Thanks Again!
Hi (Name), I just wanted to share a quick update. I finished my semester with courses in accounting and finance, volunteered at a community event, and plan to join the business club next semester. Thank you again for your advice and encouragement!
Consistency shows reliability and keeps the relationship warm.
3. Stay visible without being pushy
Like or comment on their LinkedIn posts
Congratulate them on milestones
Share something useful: "Saw this article and thought of you based on our chat about (Topic). I hope you're doing well!"
4. Track who you met
Keep a simple tracker with each person's name, the date you met, notes from the conversation, the date you followed up, and your next check-in. A spreadsheet, a notes app or a notebook all work.
5. Consider a handwritten thank-you note
For a strong or meaningful connection, a short, sincere handwritten note leaves a memorable impression.
What if they don't reply?
Don't take it personally. Wait 7 to 10 days, then send one friendly note:
Hi (Name), just wanted to follow up on my note from last week. I know you're probably busy, but I appreciated our chat and would love to stay in touch if possible.
If they still don't respond, let it go and focus on the connections that do respond. Some connections simply take time.
Why it works
In my book Skills for Career Success, a design student named Michele follows up with a short thank-you email after a guest talk. Two months later, the speaker invites her to a private mixer. Weeks after that, one of the people she met there recognizes her on a Sunday jog and says, "I never forget someone who follows up with sincerity." That conversation leads to an internship interview.
You never know which follow-up will open a door.
These steps come from my book How to Network Without Anxiety. For the story above and 23 more career skills, see Skills for Career Success.
You might also like: What Should I Say at a Networking Event? 10 Conversation Starters That Work
Quick answers
How long should I wait to follow up after networking?
Within 24 to 48 hours, while the conversation is still fresh.
How many times should I follow up if they don't respond?
Once more after 7 to 10 days. If there's still no reply, let it go.
What should I say in a follow-up message?
Remind them where you met, mention one specific thing from your conversation, thank them, and say you'd like to stay in touch.
