Networking and Connecting | Now What?

After a big conference, event or meeting, you wander back into the office with a pocket full of business cards and a head swirling with past conversations. If you're like most folks, you empty your pockets onto your assistant's or favorite marketing professional's desk and ask them to add them to your contacts or your CRM. Great start! But what do you do from there?

First and foremost, make sure to reach out with a "nice to meet you" note. It doesn't need to be lengthy or time intensive, but should include a few key pieces: where you met, a personal tidbit that says "I was listening!", the potential for connecting or working together in the future, and a request for action.

Here's an example:

"Hi Stella, It was great to meet you at last night's alumni mixer. I am still thinking about the story you shared about the lion sighting on your recent safari - what an incredible memory for you and your sister! When you decide you're ready to make progress on that big project we talked about, I hope I can be a resource and advisor for you. Could I treat you to coffee this time next month to learn more about it and your vision? Below are a few dates that are open on my calendar. Let me know what works best for you."