by Terra L. Fletcher

Created on: November 18, 2010

You’ve given your elevator pitch, asked thoughtful questions, and made quality connections at the latest networking event. Now what?

Perhaps you’ve been told to write a card or note to people you’d like to keep in touch with. You know following up after a networking event will keep you "top of mind" for all your new connections. But what do you actually write inside that follow up?

Keep your note light and simple. This is not the time to send a sales letter or give a written elevator pitch. Reinforce the good impression that you made at the event. A brief note will make you more memorable and open the door to future conversations.

Mention something specific that you remember about a booth at a business expo. “John, I appreciated the way your booth felt inviting and thank you for taking the time to explain to me how your product works. I’ll not soon forget your interactive demonstration.”

Sincerely compliment a personal quality from a speed networking event. “Sue, your passion for working with the elderly is clearly evident. I appreciate how you incorporate a social mission in all you do.”

Reinforce a point from your discussion or thank them for a suggestion. “Walter, it was nice to talk to you about social media marketing. I appreciated your prospective as a business-to-consumer company advertising on Facebook. I’m going to reevaluate my approach.”

If you’d like to continue a conversation, be straightforward and offer a benefit. Don’t be general or vague. If you say,” I’d like to meet sometime.” you won’t come off as sincere. Give a specific date and time. Two options would be appreciated. “Jen, I’d like to be able to refer you to some of my associates. Could we meet for coffee on Tuesday or Wednesday at 10am?”

To further engage a potential client, offer a freebie. “Bob, you seem to be doing well with your current internet marketing, but I would like to offer a free website review to show you how you can take your site a step further.”

For referrals and introductions, keep it simple and straightforward. “Jim, I told Katie that I highly recommend you for your consulting services. She’s expecting a phone call from you next week. Or try something along these lines, “Eileen, my friend George has a unique company providing search engine marketing to independent clinics. Let’s have lunch next Tuesday to see how your businesses can complement each other.”

Following up after a networking event will keep you on top of the minds of new contacts. It also opens the door to future conversations. Make a point of following up with two or three individuals from each networking event that you attend. You’re sure to make strong, long-lasting connections that make for a strong business.

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