How to followup?

Interesting about followup. For some reason many people think of it as being far more complicated than it is, even intimidating. Actually, effective followup is just about applying common sense and being thoughtful, considerate, and respectful … and there is no ‘only one way’.

I’m often asked, “What’s the best method for following up? Is it Email? Phone calls? Text messages? Cards or letters?” Once again, I don’t believe there’s only one answer … simply apply common sense and do it in a way that is meaningful and appreciated by the person you’re following up with. In other words, don’t be an annoying pest and do stand out from the norm by demonstrating thoughtfulness, consideration and professionalism.

I personally like to use more than one method depending on the person and situation. For example, if I meet someone at a networking event and we exchange business cards I will typically followup the next day with a very brief email letting them know I appreciated meeting them and expressing a willingness to stay connected. That same day I will send them a physical greeting card that will then arrive in the mail a few days later. This almost always elicits a response of some kind (either email or phone call), which sets the stage for another step in the relationship building process.

One of the great things about sending a physical greeting card through the postal system is that it really stands out from today’s clutter. All most people get in the mail these days are bills and unsolicited marketing materials, so when a personal card arrives it’s like a breath of fresh air. Greeting cards as a followup tool are great also for anyone that finds making followup phone calls intimidating.

The downside to greeting cards is the cost, inconvenience, and time requirement but I use a method for this that bypasses all of these … if you’re interested in learning more drop me a line at reg@followupguy.com.

During the course of the relationship development process I tend to use several methods including emails, social media, phone calls, greeting cards, and frequently, in person coffee meetings. I try always to be thoughtful, considerate, and respectful, and keep my focus on the other person and how I might bring value to them in some way. My intent is to give the relationship a fair opportunity to develop because through relationships come opportunities for all concerned.