You can meet hundreds of people at networking events, but connections only matter if you follow up. After you make a new connection, take these three easy steps:
1. Send an email within two days, even if you only say, “It was great meeting you.”
2. Set up a coffee meeting in the next two weeks; take notes and email after meeting with any relevant follow-up information.
3. If you see them at another event, asking about something you discussed previously – personal or business – shows you were listening. If you do not see them, send an email within two months.
Follow up = DONE.
– Ashley Hilsman, Executive Vice President, New Orleans Chamber of Commerce