01670 284135
01670 284135
So, you went networking. You shook hands. You exchanged business cards. You paid little attention. Now that the event is over you emailed everyone ‘It was lovely to meet you’ even though you have no clue who they are,”.
Congratulations—you’ve just wasted your time and theirs.
Lazy, impersonal follow-ups are the reason so many networking efforts go nowhere. If you want real connections, real business opportunities, and real success, then put in the effort.
Look, we’ve all had that email:
“It was lovely to meet you at [Event Name]. I’d love to follow up and share some informationabout [insert product]. Looking forward to seeing you.”
It’s almost as pointless as you going. It’s lifeless. If you didn’t actually have a meaningful chat with the person, it’s also dishonest. People can smell your crap a mile away. You can come to my back garden for a cuppa and throw soe cash at e, it will be just as effective.
Take the time to craft an actual message that actually reflects your conversation, or don’t if you didn’t speak.
That’s how you remind people who you are. That’s how you build a connection.
Emails are safe, but they’re also cold. If you really want to stand out, make a follow-up call. Yes, an actual phone call. Worst case scenario send a WhatsApp, with a video clip in it, a personal one. Get a grip.
Most people don’t do this because they’re either afraid of seeming pushy or, let’s be real, they’re just too lazy. A five-minute conversation can build ten times the rapport of a written message.
That’s it. No need for a sales pitch just a genuine attempt to connect.
Here’s a secret: The best business relationships aren’t built on business—they’re built on people. If you treat every follow-up like a sales opportunity, you’re doing it wrong.
Instead of pushing your services or trying to “close a deal,” focus on getting to know the person. What are their interests? The more wide-ranging and personal your conversations are, the more natural it will be for business opportunities to come later.
People don’t do business with companies; they do business with people they like and trust. Be someone worth knowing, and the deals will come organically.
One email or phone call isn’t enough. If you really want to build a relationship, stay in touch. Send them an article that made you think of them. Drop them a quick message when you see their company in the news. Invite them for a coffee when you’re in their area.
Don’t be annoying or false and too smooth. The best networkers don’t just reach out when they need something; they keep the relationship alive so that when opportunities arise, they’re the first person that comes to mind.
Most people are lazy networkers. They send a generic email, pat themselves on the back, and wonder why nothing comes of it. Don’t be that person.
“Networking is crap because I didn’t sell anything.”
Have a f&%king word with yourself!
So, Try not be a lazy bstard. Put in the effort, and watch your network (and your business) grow. Now be sensible and connect with me on Linkedin and start networking! Remember, some of the best networking events are free of charge and happen when you least expect it so always be ready to get a conversation started, you never know where it might lead.
