Networking Follow-Up Message Templates
Professional templates for maintaining valuable connections after networking events
Follow-Up Success Formula: Send within 1 week, personalize with conversation details, provide value when possible, and suggest concrete next steps for building the relationship.
🤝 Template Categories
⏰ Follow-Up Timing Guide
24-48 Hours
High-priority connections, promised follow-ups
3-5 Days
Standard networking follow-ups
1 Week
Maximum timeframe while conversation is fresh
Same Day
LinkedIn requests from conferences
👋 Initial Connection Follow-ups
Double-Opt-In Introduction
Subject: Introduction between [Name 1] and [Name 2]Hi [Name 1] and [Name 2],I hope you’re both doing well! I wanted to introduce you to each other as I believe you’d have a valuable connection.[Name 1] – meet [Name 2], who is [their title/role] at [company]. [Brief relevant background about their expertise or current project].[Name 2] – meet [Name 1], who is [their title/role] at [company]. [Brief relevant background about their expertise or current project].I thought you might find it valuable to connect because [specific reason for the introduction – shared challenge, complementary expertise, mutual interest, etc.].I’ll let you both take it from here and will step out of the conversation. Enjoy connecting!Best regards,
[Your Name]
When to Use:
When you want to connect two people who would benefit from knowing each other. Always get permission from both parties before making the introduction.
Permission to Introduce
Subject: Introduction opportunity – [brief description]Hi [Name],I hope you’re doing well! I wanted to reach out because I think you’d have a valuable connection with someone in my network.[Their name] is [title/role] at [company] and is currently [relevant project or challenge]. Based on our conversation about [topic you discussed], I thought you two might benefit from connecting because [specific reason].Would you be open to me making an introduction? I’d be happy to facilitate an initial connection if you’re interested.Let me know your thoughts!Best,
[Your Name]
When to Use:
Before making an introduction, use this to get permission from both parties. This shows respect for their time and ensures they’re interested in connecting.
📅 Long-term Relationship Maintenance
Quarterly Check-in
Subject: Checking in and sharing an updateHi [Name],I hope you’re having a great [season/quarter]! I was thinking about our conversation [time period] ago about [topic] and wanted to check in.Quick update from my end: [Brief update about your work, project, or something relevant to your previous conversation].I’d love to hear how things are going with [project or challenge they mentioned]. How has [specific aspect they were working on] been progressing?[Optional: Share relevant resource or offer help if appropriate]Hope all is well with you!Best,
[Your Name]
When to Use:
For maintaining connections with valuable contacts over time. Send every 3-6 months to people you want to keep in your professional network.
Congratulations on Achievement
Subject: Congratulations on [specific achievement]!Hi [Name],I just saw the news about [specific achievement – promotion, award, company milestone, etc.] – congratulations![Optional: Add personal note about why this is particularly meaningful – “Given your passion for [area] that you shared when we met, this recognition is so well-deserved.”]I remember our conversation about [relevant topic from your previous interaction], and it’s wonderful to see [how this achievement relates to what they were working toward].Wishing you continued success in your new [role/venture/etc.]!Best regards,
[Your Name]
When to Use:
When you see someone in your network achieve a promotion, award, or other milestone. Keep it genuine and reference your past connection.
Sharing Relevant Opportunity
When to Use:
When you come across opportunities (jobs, speaking engagements, partnerships) that might interest someone in your network. Shows you’re thinking of their goals.
📝 Follow-up Best Practices
- Personalize every message: Reference specific topics from your conversation to show you were engaged
- Lead with value: Share resources, make introductions, or offer assistance before asking for anything
- Be specific: Mention exact details about what you discussed and why you’re reaching out
- Keep it concise: Respect their time with clear, brief messages that get to the point
- Follow through: If you promise to share something or make an introduction, do it promptly
- Track your outreach: Keep notes on who you’ve contacted and what you’ve discussed
- Be patient: Not everyone will respond immediately; don’t take it personally
- Quality over quantity: Focus on meaningful connections rather than mass follow-ups
Pro Tip: Create a simple spreadsheet to track your networking follow-ups with columns for: Name, Event/Meeting, Date Met, Topics Discussed, Follow-up Sent, Response Received, and Next Action. This helps you maintain consistent, professional relationship building.
