The 48-Hour Rule
If you wait too long, momentum dies.
Send follow-ups within 24 to 48 hours while the conversation is still fresh.
Post-Event Follow-Up System
1) Rank Your Conversations
Use a quick score for each person:
- Fit (1-5)
- Timing (1-5)
- Mutual value (1-5)
Prioritize your top 3-5 first.
2) Personalize Every Message
Reference something specific from your conversation.
Generic follow-ups get ignored.
Template:
Great meeting you at Speed Networkers. I liked your point about [specific detail].
Open to a quick 15-minute call this week to explore [specific opportunity]?
3) Propose A Clear Next Step
Do not end with "let’s keep in touch."
Ask for one concrete action:
- 15-minute call
- Intro to a specific person
- Quick collaboration brainstorm
4) Keep A Relationship Pipeline
Good networking compounds over time.
Track people, check in consistently, and create value before asking for anything.
Final Reminder
The event creates the introduction.
The follow-up creates the opportunity.