What To Do After a Networking Event Is Over
(And How to Turn Conversations Into Real Connections)
You showed up. You shook hands. You exchanged business cards. You had great conversations.
Now what?
The truth is, networking doesn’t end when the event does — it actually starts there. What you do in the hours and days after a networking event determines whether those introductions turn into partnerships, customers, or long-term professional relationships.
Here’s your step-by-step guide to making the most of every connection you make.
1. Organize Your Contacts Immediately
Before memories fade, take time to:
Review business cards
Add contacts to your CRM or spreadsheet
Write notes about what you discussed
Tracking details makes it easier to personalize follow-ups later and prevents connections from slipping through the cracks.
2. Follow Up Within 24–48 Hours
Timing matters — a lot.
Most experts recommend sending your first follow-up within 24–48 hours while the conversation is still fresh in both people’s minds. Waiting too long can make you seem disinterested or forgettable.
Quick follow-ups:
Reinforce the relationship
Show professionalism
Increase the likelihood of a response
Some research even suggests timely follow-ups significantly improve engagement and relationship-building success.
3. Personalize Every Message
Avoid copy-and-paste emails.
Instead:
Reference something you talked about
Mention shared interests
Thank them for their time or insight
Personalized outreach can improve response rates and shows you were genuinely engaged in the conversation.
4. Connect on LinkedIn (Or Social Platforms)
A connection request keeps you visible long after the event ends.
LinkedIn is especially powerful because:
Many professionals check it daily
It keeps you visible through posts and updates
It gives you natural conversation starters later
5. Offer Value — Don’t Just Ask for Something
Strong networking is about relationships, not transactions.
Try:
Sending an article relevant to their work
Making an introduction to someone helpful
Sharing resources or event opportunities
People remember how you helped them, not how you sold to them.
6. Suggest a Clear Next Step
If the conversation was strong, keep the momentum going:
Coffee meeting
Virtual intro call
Site visit
Collaboration conversation
Setting a next step dramatically increases the chance the relationship continues.
7. Don’t Be Afraid of One More Follow-Up
No reply? That’s normal.
If needed:
Wait about 5–7 days
Send a short, polite check-in
Then move on if there’s still no response
8. Play the Long Game
Networking isn’t about instant results.
Stay visible by:
Engaging with posts
Sharing industry insights
Inviting contacts to future events
Checking in occasionally
Consistent, authentic engagement builds trust over time.
Final Thought
Great networking isn’t about collecting business cards — it’s about building relationships.
The event opens the door.
Your follow-up is what keeps it open.
