Automating executive networking follow-up
Executive Networking Follow-Up? Automate Your Way to the Top!
How I Use My CRM To Automate My Networking Follow-up by Tackle Your To Do with Julie Trombley
Title: How I Use My CRM To Automate My Networking Follow-up
Channel: Tackle Your To Do with Julie Trombley
Executive Networking Follow-Up? Automate Your Way to the Top! (Or at Least Give Yourself a Fighting Chance)
Okay, let's be real. Executive networking. The words conjure up images of hushed hotel lobbies, stiff handshakes, and business cards changing hands faster than you can say "synergy." And the follow-up? Ugh. That's where the real work (and the potential for complete and utter failure) begins. Executive Networking Follow-Up? Automate Your Way to the Top! sounds… promising, doesn't it? A shortcut to success! A way to avoid the awkwardness and the sheer time-suck of it all. Well, let’s dive in, shall we?
Because, honestly? I've been there. I am there, still. You're at some swanky event, schmoozing with the Big Cheese, exchanging pleasantries and promises of future collaboration. Then the next day… crickets. You remember the sinking feeling? That feeling of "Did I even make an impression? Did they even remember my name?"
That's where automation, like a good wingman, steps in.
The Allure of the Auto-Responder: Saving Time, Fueling Ambition
The obvious benefit is time. Let's face it, we're all drowning in a sea of emails, meetings, and deadlines. Manually crafting personalized follow-up emails for every single person you meet? Forget about it. Executive Networking Follow-Up automation, through tools like HubSpot, Mailchimp, or even the more robust CRM platforms, allows you to schedule, personalize, and send emails with a few clicks. I remember one time, after a particularly brutal conference where I met what felt like a thousand people, I used a simple automation to send out a brief email thanking everyone for their time and reiterating a key takeaway from our conversation. It was a lifesaver! I got a ton of replies, way more engagement than I would have if I'd tried to do it all manually.
Plus, the psychological boost is real. The fact of doing the follow-up, even if it’s automated, shows initiative. It signals that you're interested, that you're serious. And that, my friends, is half the battle.
Here's a nugget of data. While exact figures vary, studies show that a prompt follow-up (within 24-48 hours) significantly increases the chances of a positive response. Automation allows you to stick to that crucial timeframe, even when you're jet-lagged, swamped, or just… not feeling it.
But… Is It Authenticity or Automation? The Risks of the Robotic
Alright, let's pump the brakes a little. Automation is great in moderation. The biggest risk? Coming off as, well, robotic. We've all gotten those emails. The generic "Dear [First Name]," followed by a pre-written script that screams "I didn’t actually remember our conversation!” It’s the digital equivalent of a cold handshake. Executive Networking Follow-Up done poorly can actually hurt your chances.
Think about it. What's the point of meeting someone impactful if the follow-up is indistinguishable? You've essentially wasted a conversation and maybe even damaged a potential connection.
Here’s a true story: I once received a follow-up email from a CEO of a major company after a brief chat at a conference. It was clearly automated. The email mentioned a topic we hadn’t even discussed. It was a total facepalm moment, and I immediately lost respect. It taught me the hard lesson: personalization is king. Even within automation.
Another less discussed challenge? The sheer volume of automated emails people are receiving. Your email might get lost in the inbox abyss, especially if it lacks a compelling subject line or unique content. You need to stand out, not blend in.
Striking the Balance: The Art of the Automated Personal Touch
So, how do you harness the power of automation without losing the human touch? It’s an art, not a science, but here's the gist:
- Segmentation is your friend: Don't send the same email to everyone. Group contacts based on your initial conversation (e.g., "Discussed potential partnership," "Interested in [specific area]"), and tailor your messaging accordingly.
- Personalize, personalize, personalize: Go beyond just inserting their name. Reference something specific you discussed. Mention a mutual connection. Show that you actually listened.
- Less is often more: Avoid overly long emails. Get straight to the point. Respect the recipient's time.
- Test and iterate: Track your open rates, click-through rates, and responses. See what’s working and what's not. Adjust your content accordingly. This is a constant process of refinement.
- Don't forget the human touch: Schedule some follow-ups manually, especially with key contacts. A handwritten note or a quick phone call can go a long way.
It’s about building genuine connections, not just collecting contacts.
The Tech Toolbox: Beyond the Basics of Executive Networking Follow-Up
Okay, so which tools are worth the investment? Here’s a rapid-fire rundown, but remember to do your own research and find what works for you:
- CRM Systems (HubSpot, Salesforce, Pipedrive): The big guns. Great for comprehensive contact management, email automation, and tracking sales.
- Email Marketing Platforms (Mailchimp, Constant Contact): Excellent for mass email campaigns, newsletter creation, and basic automation.
- LinkedIn Sales Navigator: Powerful for identifying and reaching out to key decision-makers, often with automation integrations.
- AI-powered tools: Some emerging tools are using AI to personalize emails and suggest follow-up strategies. (Proceed with caution, and always review the output).
It's a jungle out there, so experiment and see what clicks for your style of networking.
Conclusion: The Human-Automated Hybrid – The New Networking Frontier
So, back to the question: Executive Networking Follow-Up? Automate Your Way to the Top!? The answer is nuanced. Automation can be a game-changer, but it's not a magic bullet. It's a tool. A powerful tool, yes, but one that requires careful execution and a commitment to authenticity.
The future of networking is a hybrid one. A blend of strategic automation combined with genuine human interaction. Master that balance. Personalize your approach. And you might just find yourself rising above the rest.
What are your favorite networking follow-up strategies? Do you have any horror stories or success tales? Let’s chat in the comments! And remember, even the best automation can't replace a good, old-fashioned conversation. Now, go forth and network (responsibly!)
Unlock Your CEO Potential: One-on-One Executive Mentoring5 EASY Ways to Follow Up with Your Network For Business, Career, and Life by Cass Thompson Career Advice
Title: 5 EASY Ways to Follow Up with Your Network For Business, Career, and Life
Channel: Cass Thompson Career Advice
Alright… let's talk about something that, for a while, used to give me the shivers: Automating executive networking follow-up. Sounds… well, a little robotic, right? Like you’re just churning out bland emails to people you barely remember meeting. But hear me out. It doesn't have to be that way. In fact, done right, it can be the difference between those fleeting LinkedIn connections and actually forging meaningful relationships that accelerate your career. I'm talking about finding REAL opportunities and making connections that really matter.
Look, let's be honest, networking is HARD. Attending events, schmoozing, remembering names (especially after a few glasses of… you know)… it's exhausting. And then comes the follow-up. Ugh. So, here’s how to navigate that whole process with a little help and some serious smarts.
Why Follow-Up Is Everything (And Why You're Probably Bombing It Right Now)
Firstly, let me just say: if you think attending the event is networking, you're missing the point by a mile. The actual networking, the stuff that creates opportunities, happens AFTER you’ve met someone. It’s in the follow-up. Think about it: you chat with someone at a conference, they seem interesting, you exchange cards… and then? Silence. Crickets. The vast majority of connections fizzle out because of a lack of… well, follow-through.
This is where the magic of automating executive networking follow-up truly comes into play. It's not about being impersonal; it’s about being efficient. It’s about ensuring you don’t let those potentially valuable connections fall through the cracks because you got swamped with your actual job. And yes, it's about actually setting yourself apart from the crowd.
Building Your Automated Networking Arsenal: Tools & Tactics (Where the Magic Happens)
Okay, so you’re on board? Good. Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty. What does this automation actually look like? Here are some of my key tools and strategies; and I want to stress, this is about integration. It's about using these tools together.
The CRM Holy Grail (or, Pick the Right One):
- This is your central hub. I personally use [Suggesting a CRM tool, e.g., Hubspot, Pipedrive, or similar] for its simplicity and its integration with other tools. Think of it as your digital Rolodex, but much, much smarter. You’ll log your interactions here, your notes, and set up automated follow-up sequences.
- Actionable Tip: Choose a CRM that integrates with your calendar (Google Calendar or Outlook) and email. This will streamline scheduling and make it easier to track communications.
Email Automation Platforms (Your Secret Weapon):
- Tools like [Suggesting email automation, e.g., Mailchimp, ConvertKit, or similar], or even the automation features within your CRM, allow you to create automated email sequences. These are your follow-up emails, your check-ins, the things that keep you top-of-mind.
- Actionable Tip: Don’t go for generic templates! Tailor your emails. This is where you mention something specific about your conversation. "It was great chatting with you about [Topic] at [Event] last week." People can smell boilerplate a mile away.
LinkedIn Integration (Because, Duh):
- Almost every CRM and email automation platform integrates with LinkedIn. This allows you to connect with people, send personalized connection requests (essential!), and even track their activity on LinkedIn (to tailor your follow-up).
- Actionable Tip: Always personalize your LinkedIn connection requests. Reference something you discussed or a common connection. That's networking gold.
Scheduling Software (Protect Your Precious Time):
- Don't let scheduling meetings become a back-and-forth email nightmare. Use tools like [Suggesting scheduling tools, e.g., Calendly, Acuity Scheduling, or similar] to allow people to book time with you directly.
- Actionable Tip: Include your scheduling link in your follow-up emails, especially if you're offering to connect further.
The Art of the Automated Follow-Up: From Generic to Genuine
Okay, here's where we move from automation to intelligence. I cringe when I see the word "automation" used as an excuse for laziness in follow-up. I’ve seen it, I’ve received those robotic, generic email blasts. Here's how to avoid the same fate and use automation to build real relationships:
The Initial Contact (Post-Event):
- Send within 24-48 hours.
- Reference something specific from your conversation. "It was great to hear about your work at [Company]! I found your insights on [Topic] particularly interesting."
- Include a call to action. (e.g., "Would love to continue the conversation - are you free for a quick chat sometime next week?")
The "Checking In" Email (A Week or Two Later):
- Offer a link to an article or resource you think they might find valuable.
- Ask a specific question. "I'm curious to hear your thoughts on…"
The Strategic "Value-Add" Email (Monthly or Bi-Monthly):
- Share industry news, an invitation to an event, or a relevant introduction (if you know someone they should meet).
- Actionable Tip: This is where your network really starts to see your value.
The "Re-Engagement" Email (If You Haven't Heard Back):
- A friendly nudge, reminding them of your previous conversation.
- Actionable Tip: Keep it light, and don't take it personally if they don't respond. Sometimes people are just busy.
Anecdote Time: My (Nearly) Epic Networking Fail (And How I Recovered!)
Alright, so I’m going to share a little personal disaster… and explain how I turned it around.
I was at a conference a few years back, and I had THE conversation with a VP of Marketing at a huge tech company. We talked for a good hour – fantastic rapport, exchanged cards, the works. I was thrilled. This was a BIG networking win.
Conference ends. I get back to the office, and… BAM! Life, as it does, takes over. Work deadlines, projects, meetings… the follow-up? Well, let's just say it slipped my mind. For, like, a month.
Then, out of the blue, I remembered. Panic set in. I knew I’d blown it. I pictured her face, the opportunity lost, the chance to build a relationship…ugh . But I decided to try a Hail Mary:
I went into my CRM (thank goodness I'd at least logged the initial interactions!) and wrote a VERY honest email. "Hey [Her Name], so terribly sorry for the radio silence! I’m clearly terrible at follow-up :) But I was excited to reconnect and offer a quick update on our company."
The point? I didn’t write it. I sent it! And… she replied. And that resulted in a follow up call with her manager. It worked. Not all the time. It was late, but it worked because I was genuine. I owned up to it. And that, my friends, is a lesson learned which led me here.
And that's a perfect example…
The Human Touch: Avoiding the Robotic Trap
Here's the deal: Automating executive networking follow-up is about augmenting your efforts, not replacing them. It's about being smart, not soulless.
- Personalize, Personalize, Personalize: Always tailor your messages. Reference specific details from your conversation.
- Be Thoughtful, Not Just Automated: Don't just send the same generic email to everyone.
- Monitor Your Results (Seriously): Track what works and what doesn't. Adjust your sequences accordingly. Learn about the best practice for "Automating executive networking follow-up."
- Be Patient: Building strong relationships takes time.
Advanced Tactics: Leveling Up Your Game
Okay, so you've got the basics down. Now, let's talk about taking things to the next level:
- Segment Your Contacts: Don't treat everyone the same. Segment your contacts based on industry, role, or common interests. This allows you to tailor your messaging even further.
- Use Video (Yes, Really!): A short, personalized video can make a huge impact. It's more personal and even more memorable than an email.
- Content is King (and Queen, and Everything In Between!): Share valuable content that your contacts will find helpful. This could be industry articles, reports, or even your own insights.
- Leverage Social Listening: Use tools like [Suggesting social listening tool, e.g., Hootsuite, Mention, or similar] to monitor your contacts' online activity. This allows you to engage with them in real-time and show that you're paying attention.
Automation 1 networking follow up by Solofusion Ltd
Title: Automation 1 networking follow up
Channel: Solofusion Ltd
Executive Networking Follow-Up: The Messy, Real-World Edition - Because Perfection is Overrated!
Okay, I met a bunch of Big Shots at that conference. Now what?! Do I *really* have to follow up? (Please say no...)
Ugh. I hear you. The thought of *more* work after a conference where you schmoozed your heart out is... draining. But listen, picture this: You're at that swanky cocktail hour, you exchange cards, promising to "connect!" – and then... crickets. That's the networking graveyard. Trust me, it's a lonely place.
Yes, you absolutely have to follow up. Think of it as a second chance. A chance to actually *build* a relationship, not just collect business cards. It's like… baking a cake. The conference was the ingredient-gathering; the follow-up is the actual baking. And frankly, you wouldn't want a raw cake, would you?
But hey, don't stress! We'll break it down.
When's the "right" time to follow-up? Is there a magic window? (And can I just send a group email...?)
Ah, the timing question. It’s the networking equivalent of “When should I call?” Don't overthink it, but don't procrastinate either. Aim for within 24-48 hours. Seriously, strike while the iron's hot! You want your name (and your *amazing* conversation) fresh in their minds.
Group emails? NOOOOOOOOOOOOO! Unless you enjoy being instantly deleted. Personalization is KEY here. It shows you actually *remembered* them. (And trust me, people appreciate that, especially when they’re overwhelmed with emails.)
My personal anecdote? I sent a group email once, thinking I was being efficient. Big mistake! One of the recipients, a VP at a company I REALLY wanted to connect with, replied with something along the lines of, "This feels… cold. And spammy." Ouch. Embarrassing. Learn from my pain, people!
What should I *actually* write in the follow-up email? (My brain just goes blank...)
Okay, breathe. It’s easier than you think. Forget boring corporate speak! Here's the recipe, and it's pretty darn simple:
- Subject Line: Mention something specific from your chat. "Great Chat at [Conference Name]!" or "Regarding our discussion on [Topic]." Be specific!
- The Body:
- Recap: Remind them who you are and briefly recap what you discussed. "It was great meeting you at the conference. We talked about [topic related to their job, hobby, or what you connected on]."
- Show genuine interest: Ask a follow-up question related to *their* interests or the topics you discussed. "I'm curious to know what your thoughts are on the latest trends in AI".
- Offer a specific value or action: Do you offer a resource or the promise of a meeting? It can be as simple as, "I wanted to share a recent article on [Topic] that I thought you'd find relevant", or "I'm always open to chat about the challenges you might be facing."
- Be concise and friendly: Don't write an epic novel! Aim for a few short paragraphs.
- Call to action (optional): Do you want to schedule a call, a coffee, or meet at another event?
- Sign-off: Keep it professional, but friendly. "Best," "Warm regards," or even a simple "Thanks," work just fine.
Don't stress about being perfect! Your goal is to come across as human, interested, and offering genuine value. The right kind of connection will blossom from that.
I once connected with the CEO of a major tech company after a conference. We talked about classic cars (I'm a bit of a nerd), and in my follow-up, I mentioned a specific engine type he was into. Boom! We ended up having a coffee in their office. Now THAT'S how you follow up.
OMG, what if they don't reply? (Panic. Intensifies.)
Deep breaths! It happens. A lot. Don’t take it personally. Executive inboxes are a firehose of emails. They're busy. They have lives. It could be for any number of reasons.
Before you spiral into a vortex of self-doubt, try this:
- Give it a week: Seriously, most people are busy.
- Send a gentle nudge: If you haven't heard back in a week, a brief follow-up is okay. Keep it short and sweet. "Just checking in on my previous email..." or "I wanted to ensure you had the chance to see this article." If it's something tangible, mention it.
- After the second un-reply, let it go.. Send a second nudge (maybe a brief follow-up) and if you get nothing, maybe it's just not meant to be. Don't flood their inbox! Nobody likes an email stalker.
- Acceptance. Sometimes, it just doesn't work out. It's not a personal judgment.
I had this happen *constantly* early in my career. I'd get so frustrated, thinking, "They *must* think I'm a total loser!" Then, I learned to relax. The people who are meant to connect with you, *will*. The rest? Move on. There are plenty of other fish (or, you know, executives) in the sea.
Okay, automation sounds good... but I don't want to be that annoying, robotic person. How do I do this without losing my soul?
Ah, the eternal struggle! Automation is fantastic for efficiency, but you're absolutely right: generic, copy-and-paste emails are a networking death sentence.
Here’s how to use automation *intelligently* without sounding like a robot:
- Use templates, but customize! Create templates, but never send them without personalizing them. Mention something specific from your conversation. Refer to that shared interest.
- Segment your contacts.. Are some people more valuable or have specific interests you want to follow?
- Automated reminder tools. Schedule reminders to send out emails after a few days, but NEVER send the same email!
- Automate the *easy* stuff. Use tools to manage your contacts, schedule reminders, and track your follow-ups.
- Always add a human touch Always, always check the email for personalization before sending it, no matter how tempting it is just
How to 10X your sales at Networking Events Email Automation by Chris Edwards Marketing Support
Title: How to 10X your sales at Networking Events Email Automation
Channel: Chris Edwards Marketing Support
Unlock Your Potential: The Seminar That Will Transform Your Career
How To Follow Up After a Networking Event by Rodger and Melissa Taylor
Title: How To Follow Up After a Networking Event
Channel: Rodger and Melissa Taylor
Automate Networking and Lead Follow-Up IRL with a HighLevel Powered Digital Business Card by HighLevel
Title: Automate Networking and Lead Follow-Up IRL with a HighLevel Powered Digital Business Card
Channel: HighLevel
