The Power of Follow-Up LinkedIn Messages
Hey there, LinkedIn go-getters! Let’s talk about the secret sauce of networking success: the follow-up LinkedIn message. It’s not just a courtesy; it’s your golden ticket to building stronger professional relationships, staying top of mind, and showing you’re serious about your connections.
Think about it – we’ve all been to those networking events where business cards fly like confetti. But what happens after? That’s where the magic of a well-crafted follow-up comes in. It’s your chance to stand out from the crowd and turn that fleeting interaction into a meaningful connection.
As I always say to my clients, “Your network is your net worth.” And trust me, a solid follow-up strategy can be the difference between a stagnant network and a thriving one that opens doors you didn’t even know existed.
Crafting Compelling Follow-Up Messages
Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the nitty-gritty of crafting those killer follow-up messages. It’s not rocket science, but there’s definitely an art to it.
Timing is Crucial
First things first – timing is everything. You don’t want to be that person sliding into someone’s DMs five minutes after meeting them, but you also don’t want to wait so long that they’ve forgotten who you are. In my experience, 24 to 48 hours after your initial interaction is the sweet spot. It’s fresh enough to be relevant but not so quick that it seems desperate.
Personalization is Key
Generic messages are about as exciting as watching paint dry. Instead, make your follow-up message as personal as possible. Reference that interesting conversation you had about AI in marketing or that shared love for obscure 80s bands. Show them you were genuinely listening and interested.
Keep it Concise and Relevant
Remember, LinkedIn isn’t the place for your life story. Keep your message short, sweet, and to the point. Your connection is probably juggling a million things, so respect their time. A quick, punchy message is more likely to get a response than a novel.
Offer Value and Insights
Here’s where you can really shine. Don’t just reach out to say “hi” – offer something of value. Maybe it’s an interesting article related to your conversation, or a connection to someone in their industry. Always be thinking, “How can I help this person?”
Include a Clear Call-to-Action
Don’t leave your connection hanging. End your message with a clear next step. Whether it’s suggesting a coffee chat, a phone call, or even just asking for their thoughts on an idea, give them a reason to respond.
Follow-Up Message Templates for Various Scenarios
Alright, I know what you’re thinking – “Alex, this all sounds great, but what do I actually say?” Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Here are some templates to get you started:
After a Networking Event
“Hi [Name], It was great meeting you at [Event] yesterday! I loved our chat about [specific topic]. I’d love to continue our conversation over coffee sometime next week. Are you free on Tuesday or Thursday afternoon?”
After a Conference or Industry Event
“Hey [Name], I hope you’re still buzzing from [Conference]! I can’t stop thinking about your insights on [topic]. I’d love to explore how we might collaborate on this. Do you have 15 minutes for a quick call next week?”
After an Initial Meeting or Introduction
“Hi [Name], Thanks for taking the time to meet with me yesterday. Your perspective on [topic] was eye-opening. I’ve actually come across an article that expands on what we discussed – would you be interested in me sending it your way?”
After Sending a Job Application or Resume
“Hello [Name], I hope this message finds you well. I recently applied for the [Position] role at [Company] and wanted to reiterate my enthusiasm for the opportunity. I’d love to discuss how my experience in [relevant skill] could benefit your team. Would you be open to a brief call next week?”
After an Interview
“Hi [Name], Thank you again for taking the time to speak with me about the [Position] role. Our conversation reinforced my excitement about potentially joining the team at [Company]. I’m particularly intrigued by the project you mentioned involving [specific detail]. I look forward to hearing about the next steps in the process.”
For Existing Clients or Partners
“Hey [Name], I hope this message finds you well. I’ve been thinking about our last project together and had an idea that could take things to the next level. Do you have 10 minutes this week for a quick brainstorming session?”
Automating Your Follow-Up Process
Now, I know what you’re thinking – “Alex, this sounds great, but I don’t have time to craft personalized messages for everyone I meet!” I hear you. That’s where the power of automation comes in.
LinkedIn automation tools can be a game-changer for your follow-up strategy. They allow you to set up sequences and reminders, ensuring you never miss an opportunity to nurture a connection. But here’s the kicker – even with automation, personalization is key. The best tools allow you to customize your messages at scale, so they still feel authentic and tailored to each individual.
Just remember, automation should enhance your strategy, not replace the human touch. Use it wisely, and you’ll be amazed at how much more efficient and effective your networking becomes.
FAQs
How soon should I follow up after connecting on LinkedIn?
Ideally, send your follow-up message within 24-48 hours of connecting. This keeps the interaction fresh in both your minds.
What if I don’t receive a response to my follow-up message?
Don’t panic! Wait about a week, then send a gentle reminder. If you still don’t hear back, it’s best to move on and focus on other connections.
Should I follow up with everyone I connect with on LinkedIn?
Quality over quantity! Focus on following up with connections where you see potential for mutual benefit or genuine interest.
Is it okay to use templates for follow-up messages?
Templates can be a great starting point, but always customize them to reflect your personal interaction with the connection.
How long should my follow-up LinkedIn message be?
Keep it concise – aim for 2-3 short paragraphs. Your connection should be able to read and respond quickly.
Can I use emojis in my follow-up LinkedIn messages?
Use them sparingly. A well-placed emoji can add personality, but too many can come across as unprofessional.
How often should I follow up with my LinkedIn connections?
It depends on the relationship, but generally, aim to engage meaningfully with your key connections every 4-6 weeks.