How to Follow Up and Build Lasting Connections: A Guide to Networking

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So, you met someone interesting—maybe at an industry event, on a night out, or even in line for coffee. You clicked, exchanged info, and now, you want to keep in touch. But how do you go from an intro to a real connection without making it awkward? Here’s how to follow up, keep the convo going, and build a network that actually supports your goals.

Step 1: Follow Up Fast

The key to making a lasting impression is to follow up fast. Within 24 hours is ideal. Why? It shows you’re interested, responsible, and value the connection. Send a quick text or email to say it was nice meeting them, and reference something specific from your convo, like:

“Hey! Loved meeting you at the event last night. Enjoy your weekend in the Hamptons!”

Or, if there’s something specific you’d like to chat about, add that too:

“I’d love to chat about the marketing role we discussed at [Company]. Are you free for a quick call next Thursday?”

No need for a long email. Just a quick line or two that shows you’re interested and reminds them of who you are while the interaction is still fresh in their brain.

Step 2: Connect on LinkedIn

Whether you swapped contact info or not, LinkedIn is the next step. Send a connection request with a short note:

“Hi! Great meeting you at the X event. I’d love to keep in touch and chat more about [topic].”

They’re more likely to accept if you jog their memory of where you met and your shared interests. Plus, LinkedIn is a casual but professional way to stay in the loop with their updates.

Step 3: Keep it Personal—Remember the Little Things

One of the best ways to deepen any connection is to remember the small details. Maybe they mentioned an upcoming trip, a restaurant they love, or even a favorite hobby. Write these things down in your phone or notes app, and reference them when you reach out again:

“Hey! Did you make it to Borough Market in London?”

This makes them feel seen and reminds them that you’re genuinely interested. Even if it’s just congratulating them on LinkedIn for a new role or an article feature, little touches like these go a long way.

Step 4: Do What You Said You’d Do

If you said you’d try something they suggested—like that burger place they mentioned—actually do it, and let them know! It’s a great way to check in and continue the conversation.

“You were right! The burger was incredible. Thanks for the tip!”

If they mentioned a project or recent podcast they were featured on, take a listen or read it, then drop a quick line or share it online with a tag. Showing up in these small ways is memorable and builds a foundation for future support.

Step 5: Be Generous, and Expect Nothing Back

Networking is about giving just as much as it is about receiving. If they mention something they need—maybe their sister’s job searching or they need advice on a project—help out if you can, even if you’re not getting anything in return. People are wired to reciprocate, so this simple act often comes back to you, even if it’s not right away.

Step 6: Don’t Overdo the Follow-Up

If you reach out and don’t get a response, don’t stress. People are busy, so if they don’t reply, move on without taking it personally. A no-reply doesn’t mean they don’t like you; it could just mean they’re overwhelmed or overpromised on something they can’t deliver. Wait it out, and touch base again in a few months or when something relevant pops up. No harm, no foul!

Step 7: Keep it Light but Consistent

Think of networking as maintaining friendships. You want to check in once in a while, but not all the time. Check in every few months if you can, either with a quick message or by commenting on their latest posts. You’re not always going to need something, but staying in their orbit means they’re more likely to think of you for opportunities when they arise.

And yes, life happens—so if you find yourself reaching out to a contact after a long silence, don’t make a big deal of it. Just give a quick reminder of how you met:

“We met last year at the X event and chatted about your job at [Company]. I know it’s been a minute, but I’d love to reconnect if you’re available.”

Skip the “you probably don’t remember me” comments. They’ll remember you; even if they don’t, acting confident and giving context helps avoid awkwardness.

Step 8: Make the Ask Clear and Simple

When it comes time to ask for a favor—like an intro to someone they know—make sure your request is straightforward. The clearer you are, the easier it is for them to help. For example:

“I have a quick favor to ask. Could you introduce me to Sabrina Lopez on your team? I noticed an open Marketing Manager role in her department and would love a chance to chat with her about it.”

If they know exactly what you’re asking, they’re more likely to say yes. And a quick “I have a favor to ask” helps them switch gears, so they know to listen up. No one likes to be on the receiving end of a vague “Hey, can I ask you something?” text.

Step 9: Be Honest, Not Salesy

People don’t like being manipulated, so if you’re asking for something, just ask. Don’t fluff it up with insincere compliments or roundabout conversation. Being straightforward is respectful and increases the chance of getting a “yes.”

For example, don’t ask an acquaintance out for drinks and then, halfway through, hit them with, “By the way, can you introduce me to your boss?” It’s confusing and makes them feel like they’re being used. Instead, be upfront and tell them what you need from the beginning, and skip the drinks unless it makes sense to continue the conversation beyond your original request. Nothing is more annoying than being asked to grab drinks on a Friday night, only to be hit up for a favor 20 minutes in and wrapping up the convo since they have a dinner, leaving me planless on a Friday. This could have been an email! Eyeroll.

Step 10: Show Appreciation, and Give Them an “Out”

When someone goes out of their way for you, don’t forget to acknowledge it and make them feel good about helping. A simple thank-you note goes a long way in making people feel appreciated. And always offer an “out” so they don’t feel pressured:

“If you’re not able to help, no worries—I totally understand. Thanks for considering it!”

Most people are willing to help if they can, but they’re more likely to feel comfortable doing it if they know they have a choice.

Networking isn’t about one-time connections. It’s about building genuine relationships that last over time. Approach it with honesty, thoughtfulness, and respect, and you’ll create a network of people who are happy to help you along the way—and who you’re equally excited to support, too.