Follow up tips are essential for entrepreneurs and professionals who want to grow their network and build meaningful relationships. Making a great first impression is only the beginning what you do after that introduction can either strengthen or stall a potential opportunity. Whether you’re reconnecting after a networking event, reaching out to a referral, or staying in touch with a potential client, knowing how to follow up the right way can increase your chances of building trust and generating business through authentic connection.
1. Send a Personalized Thank You
One of the most powerful but often overlooked follow up tips is simply saying thank you. A personalized thank you message can go a long way in making a positive impression. Instead of a general “Great to meet you,” try something like, “I really enjoyed our conversation about digital marketing trends. Your insights on automation tools were eye-opening.”
Adding a personal touch shows the other person that you were genuinely engaged, not just trying to collect business cards. Whether it’s via email, text, or even a handwritten note, expressing gratitude helps open the door to a longer, more meaningful connection.
2. Use Multiple Touchpoints
Not everyone communicates the same way. Some professionals prefer email, while others respond better to LinkedIn messages or even quick phone calls. A smart follow up strategy includes using a variety of communication methods to make sure your message is received and acknowledged.
For example, you might send a follow up email the day after meeting someone, then follow up a few days later with a connection request on LinkedIn. By showing up in multiple places without being intrusive you stay top of mind while respecting different preferences.
3. Offer Value, Not Just Reminders
Nobody likes to be pestered, and this is where many follow ups go wrong. Instead of saying, “Just following up on my last email,” think about how you can add value to your message. Can you share an interesting article related to your conversation? Offer to introduce them to someone in your network? Invite them to a local business mixer?
When your follow ups are framed around being helpful rather than just seeking something in return, people will appreciate hearing from you—and they’ll be more likely to respond.
4. Respect Their Time and Boundaries
One of the golden follow up tips is to avoid being overly persistent. People are busy. If you don’t get a response right away, don’t take it personally or send back-to-back messages.
Instead, allow a respectful window typically 3 to 5 days before reaching out again. When you do, be concise, kind, and clear. Let them know you understand their time is valuable. This shows professionalism and increases your credibility.
5. Set Clear Next Steps
Vague follow ups like “Let me know if you’re interested” don’t work as well as specific proposals. Try suggesting a day and time for a quick chat, coffee, or Zoom call. For example, “Would next Tuesday at 10 AM work for a 15-minute call to talk about potential synergies between our businesses?”
By providing clear next steps, you make it easier for the other person to say yes. It also demonstrates leadership and initiative—qualities that make you memorable.
6. Automate with Purpose
Technology can help you stay organized, but it should never replace authenticity. CRM platforms like HubSpot or GoHighLevel allow you to schedule follow ups, track interactions, and set reminders—helpful for managing multiple contacts.
However, avoid using canned responses. Even automated follow ups should feel personal. Address the recipient by name and refer to past conversations when possible. When automation is done right, it saves you time while strengthening your relationships.
7. Track Your Results and Learn
Every interaction is a learning opportunity. Keep a log of your follow ups—who you reached out to, how, when, and what the outcome was. Did they respond after the second email? Did a phone call lead to a meeting?
Analyzing what works (and what doesn’t) helps you refine your approach. Over time, you’ll develop a follow up system that’s effective, efficient, and tailored to your networking style.
Follow Up Tips That Build Trust
Mastering the art of the follow up can make a huge difference in building strong business relationships. If you’re an entrepreneur or professional looking to grow your network, 844 ReferMe gives you the structure, support, and community to make your connections count. Whether you’re nurturing a referral or strengthening a new partnership, our chapters are designed to help you stay top of mind and win more business through trusted referrals.
Ready to grow your network? Join a chapter or visit 844ReferMe.com to get started today.
