How to Keep the Conversation Going: Best Practices for Maintaining Connections After a Networking Event

There’s something electric about a great networking event. The hum of conversation, the exchange of ideas, the thrill of discovering shared passions over a lukewarm coffee or a glass of wine. You collect business cards, connect on LinkedIn, maybe even share a laugh over an industry joke.

Then… a few days pass by.

Your inbox is stuffed, your to-do list has doubled, and those new connections? They’re at risk of being just another forgotten face in the crowd.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Networking isn’t just about who you meet, it’s about what you do after. The real magic begins once the event ends.

Here’s how to master how to follow up after a networking event and why maintaining professional connections is your secret weapon for long-term success.

Why Following Up Matters More Than You Think

Anyone can attend an event. Few take the time to follow up intentionally and even fewer do it well. In today’s fast-paced world, people are flooded with connections, likes, and half-hearted “let’s grab coffee” messages that lead nowhere.

Following up is your opportunity to stand out. It shows respect, signals professionalism, and keeps the door open for collaboration, mentorship, referrals, or even friendship.

But here’s the catch: effective networking follow-up strategies require sincerity and strategy in equal measure.

1. Follow Up Promptly, but Thoughtfully

Timing is everything. A good rule of thumb? Reach out within 24 to 72 hours after the event. That’s soon enough for the connection to still feel fresh, but not so rushed that it feels transactional.

Keep your message simple and personal:

• Mention something specific from your conversation (“I enjoyed our chat about…”).

• Express your intention clearly (“I’d love to continue our conversation about…”).

• Suggest a next step (“Are you open to a virtual/ in person coffee chat next week?”).

Pro Tip: Don’t use copy-paste templates. People can spot them from a mile away.

2. Use the Right Channels to Stay Connected

LinkedIn is often the go-to platform for maintaining professional connections and for good reason. It’s non-intrusive and designed for ongoing engagement.

When sending a LinkedIn connection request:

• Always personalize it.

• Reference where you met.

• Mention why you’re reaching out.

For deeper conversations or collaborations, email still reigns supreme for its directness and professionalism.

Networking Email Follow-Up Example:

Hi [Name],
It was a pleasure meeting you at [Event Name]. I really enjoyed learning about your work in [specific topic]. I’d love to connect and explore ways we could collaborate down the road. If you’re open to it, would you be available for a quick coffee chat next week?

Looking forward to hearing from you.

3. Keep Giving, Not Just Taking

One of the golden rules of maintaining professional connections? Be generous.

Share articles, events, or opportunities they may find helpful. Introduce them to others in your network. Congratulate them on new roles or achievements.

People remember those who add value without expecting anything in return.

Examples of Ways to Stay Connected Professionally:

• Send a relevant article or podcast link.
  
• Share a job posting or freelance gig.
  
• Invite them to an upcoming industry event.
• Celebrate their successes publicly (via LinkedIn posts, comments, or DMs).

4. Schedule Periodic Check-Ins, Without Being Pushy

Relationships are like gardens, they need regular watering, care, and patience to grow.

Set reminders every few months to check in with your most valuable connections. A simple message like “Hey [Name], how have things been going with [topic you discussed]?” can go a long way.

Not every follow-up has to lead to an immediate call or meeting. Some are simply about keeping the conversation alive until your paths cross again naturally.

5. Mind Your Post-Networking Etiquette

It’s easy to overdo it and cross into pushy territory. Here’s what not to do:

• Don’t bombard them with multiple follow-ups if they don’t respond right away.

• Avoid hard-selling your product or service immediately—relationships come first.

• Skip generic messages like “Let me know if I can help with anything!”—instead, offer something concrete.

Remember: The goal isn’t to close a deal in your first follow-up; it’s to build rapport and trust over time.

6. Leverage Social Media

Beyond LinkedIn, other platforms like Instagram or Twitter (depending on your industry) can offer informal ways to stay on their radar. Comment thoughtfully on their posts, share their work, or engage in meaningful discussions just be sure to keep it professional.

7. Create Systems for Long-Term Relationship Building

The best networkers don’t just wing it. They organize their contacts and interactions.

Consider:

• Using a simple CRM or even a spreadsheet to track connections, last touchpoints, and follow-up reminders.

• Creating “contact tiers” to prioritize connections.

• Setting quarterly goals to reach out to a set number of people.

This ensures your connections don’t slip through the cracks and helps you nurture them over the long haul.

Final Thoughts: It’s About People, Not Transactions

The best practice for networking success isn’t a clever email or LinkedIn hack, it’s consistency, kindness, and genuine curiosity about others.

Next time you leave a networking event with a handful of business cards or a full inbox of new LinkedIn requests, remember: The follow-up is where the relationship starts.