The Art Of A Follow Up Email

For years, I have been doing follow up emails to build relationships after the first meeting at a networking event just to keep the relationship afloat. You never know what could bloom after this connection. This person could turn into a mentor, write a recommendation letter, share opportunities routinely throughout the year, this is just to list a few. All of it happened because of a follow-up email. 

Follow up emails show that you are putting in more effort than everyone else. These professionals meet many people throughout the day, but will remember you because you reached out to them. 

Here is what a follow up email should include: 

1. A brief intro about yourself 
2. Where you met 
3. A takeaway you got from the conversation 
4. What do you want from them 

Here is a sample of the format I use to write emails: 

Dear [person name] 

My name is [insert name], and we met at [insert the event you met at]. I enjoyed our conversation about [insert what conversation was about] because [insert reasoning] (in other words, what did you take away from the conversation?). I would love to meet with you in-person or on Zoom/Google Meets to learn/discuss about [insert what you would like to gain from this interaction]. I am available [insert at least 3 dates and timeslots of when you are available]. Again, it was lovely meeting you, and I look forward to your response. 

[Sign off with signature] 

If the professional does not respond immediately, wait up to 3-5 days before sending another nudge to send your message to the top of their email list. You can send a message saying: 

1. Hello, I am reaching out again about [insert topic] and want to ensure you have seen the email. 
2. Hello, I am kindly emailing again to bring this to your attention in your inbox

You do not have to quote these word for word, but I hope you got the general sense and idea of nudging an email. 

Follow-up emails are important for relationship building. You should not be afraid to follow up after meeting with someone or sending a nudge after a few days. These professionals are more than happy to connect with you, but they also have busy lives, so a follow up email and/or nudge is a great reminder for them to continue building off of their connection with you.