Picture this scenario. You attend a workshop, career fair or a networking session. The most natural next step is to exchange business cards or to ask for someone's card to stay in touch. What really happens afterwards? Nothing. There seems to be a belief that having someone else's card in our possession is enough to reach out to them later when it is needed. False. This is not the most effective way to follow up with someone we just met. They may have met many people that day. So, how do you stand out? By following up right away. Here is how.
- Send a quick and short note within two days. Include where you met to give a point of reference. Mention something about discussed during your conversation that will help remember you. Here is an example: "Good morning Ms. Smith, it was a real pleasure meeting you at the Careers in STEM workshop at Princeton University last Monday. As an engineer (here you include your current professional status), your comments about the outlook for job growth in the field of chemical engineering were highly encouraging."
- Rank the relationship. Decide whether this contact is someone with long term potential or if you are mostly interested in a more tactical relationship like an informational interview or a resume critique. Beware: if your main goal is to have her introduce you to a hiring manager, you must be patient and take time to build trust.
- Find ways to remain top of mind. A common way to remain on your contact's radar is to send occasional emails with articles or links related to her area of interest. Other ways to build engagement: ask for a short meeting for an informational interview, extend an invitation to participate in a future workshop, conference, or send a note during a major holiday.
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