Networking Follow-Up: Set A Date

  When you attend a networking event and exchange business cards, if you meet someone with whom you really want/need to follow up…do it right away.

"Let's get together to see if there is any synergy for partnering or doing business together" may sound like a pickup line. (Anyone heard, "Hey baby…what's your sign"?.) Yet if you really think there is a win-win opportunity by pursuing the connection, go back to the office (or open your e-mail service on your mobile device) and send a note right away. Include how you met the connection in your "subject" line or first few characters of your text message. Then send two-to-three open dates you have in the next 2 weeks from which the new connection can pick.

They will be impressed that you contacted them right away. Most people say, "Let's get together", then never follow-up. We get used to that happening and are pleasantly surprised when they do follow-up. So YOU be the one who pleasantly surprises someone. It makes a positive impression that you are serious about taking action.

The other person then has to put up or shut up – either of which lets you know where they are coming from. If all are serious about the follow-up, settle on an exact date, time, location, and what you hope will be accomplished for the benefit of BOTH of you. Then get the appointment onto your calendar so you don't forget!