Ed note: This is the third in a series. Read the previous installment here.
Imagine your follow-up as a gourmet meal, not just a quick snack.
It should be substantial, memorable, and leave your contact looking forward to more.
This means offering value in a way that enriches your connection, turning a brief meeting into a potentially lasting relationship.
Recipe for a Valuable Follow-Up:
Share Insightful Resources: Just as a chef might recommend a rare ingredient, share articles, reports, or tools that are relevant to their interests or industry. For example, “I came across this article on blockchain trends and immediately thought of our discussion. I hope you find it as insightful as I did.”
Offer Solutions: If they mentioned a challenge they’re facing, suggest a practical solution or introduce them to someone who can help. This is like offering a perfectly paired wine with a meal. Try saying, “I recall you mentioned challenges with project management. I have a colleague who’s an expert in this area and could provide some great insights. Would you like me to connect you two?”
Invite to Events: Extend an invitation to a relevant workshop, seminar, or networking event. It’s like inviting them to a tasting menu of experiences that could benefit their professional palate. For instance, “There’s a virtual seminar on cybersecurity next week that I think you’d find valuable. Would you like me to send you the details?”
Provide Personalized Advice: If you have expertise in an area they’re interested in, offer some tailored advice or tips. This is akin to giving a cooking class to someone eager to learn. A message like, “Based on our conversation about improving team productivity, I have a few strategies that worked wonders for my team. Happy to share them if you’re interested,” can be very effective.
Follow Through on Promises: If you promised to send information, make an introduction, or look into something for them, ensure you do it. This shows you’re reliable and considerate, much like a chef ensuring their guests’ dietary preferences are respected.
By adding these elements of value to your follow-up, you’re not just reaching out; you’re building a bridge for ongoing interaction and potential collaboration. Your aim is to make your follow-up as nourishing and enriching as a well-prepared meal, leaving them satisfied yet eager for future engagements.
More Than Just a Flash in the Pan: Adding Value
✔️ Share resources and articles relevant to their interests.
✔️ Offer solutions or make introductions to address their challenges.
✔️ Invite them to relevant events or workshops.
Sejal Patel is a Rainmaking Consultant and the Founder of Sage Ivy, a New York-based consultancy dedicated to helping attorneys turn relationships into clients. With over 20 years of experience, Sejal strategically analyzes attorneys’ networks to uncover revenue and relationship opportunities, crafting individualized approaches that align with their unique strengths and styles. Learn more at www.sageivyconsulting.com.