Networking isn’t just about collecting business cards—it’s about building meaningful relationships that lead to referrals, partnerships, and long-term business growth. But in a world where everyone is bombarded with information, how do you stay memorable without being pushy?
The key is consistent, creative, and value-driven follow-ups that make people want to engage with you. Here are six unique ways to stay top of mind with your network.
1. Send a Personalized (and Unexpected) Follow-Up
Most people send a generic “Nice to meet you!” email after a networking event—but you can stand out by making it personal and thoughtful.
Try this instead:
✅ Reference a specific part of your conversation (“I really enjoyed your insights on scaling a business—your approach to hiring was really interesting!”).
✅ Share a helpful article, book, or podcast related to your conversation.
✅ Send a short video message instead of an email—it feels more personal and engaging.
💡 Pro tip: If you exchange business cards, write a note on the back about what you discussed. This makes your follow-up more meaningful!
2. Create “Wow” Moments with Handwritten Notes or Small Gifts
In a world of digital communication, a handwritten note can feel like a VIP experience.
Ideas for personal touches:
📌 Send a quick thank-you note after a meeting, referral, or introduction.
📌 If someone mentioned a favorite coffee shop, send them a $5 gift card for their next latte.
📌 If they shared a book they love, send them a related recommendation or a short summary of something similar.
These little touches make people feel appreciated—and they’ll remember you for it!
3. Stay Social: Use Social Media for Authentic Engagement
Instead of only reaching out when you need something, use social media as a low-key way to stay on people’s radar.
Ways to engage without being annoying:
📌 Like, comment, or share their posts on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram.
📌 Give them a shoutout. If they did something impressive, post about it and tag them.
📌 Post valuable content in your industry so they associate you with expertise and reliability.
💡 Pro tip: Set a 5-minute daily reminder to engage with your network on social media. It’s effortless but keeps you visible!
4. Make Strategic Introductions (Be a Connector!)
One of the fastest ways to be unforgettable in your network is to introduce people who can benefit from knowing each other.
How to do it right:
✅ Be selective—only introduce people when there’s a real potential for collaboration.
✅ Keep it short and casual. Example:
“Hey [Person A] and [Person B], I wanted to introduce you because I think you’d really hit it off! [Person A], meet [Person B], who’s a fantastic [industry]. [Person B], meet [Person A], who has a lot of expertise in [industry]. I’ll let you two take it from here!”
💡 Why this works: When you become a trusted connector, people see you as a valuable part of their network and will be more likely to refer business your way.
5. The Power of the “Check-In” Message
You don’t need a reason to reach out to people in your network—just a simple “Hey, how’s business going?” can go a long way.
Ideas for check-in messages:
📌 Send a LinkedIn message or text to past clients and referral partners every few months.
📌 Congratulate them on business milestones or achievements.
📌 Ask if they need any introductions or referrals—people will remember this generosity.
💡 Pro tip: Keep a simple spreadsheet or CRM with notes about important contacts so you can check in regularly.
6. Host Small, Low-Pressure Meetups
Instead of relying only on big networking events, create your own small networking opportunities.
Ideas for informal networking meetups:
🍻 Casual coffee or happy hour with 4-5 business owners in complementary industries.
🍽️ “Lunch & Learn” sessions where everyone shares one valuable business tip.
💻 Virtual networking chats for people in your industry.
💡 Why this works: People love low-pressure networking and will remember you as the person who brought valuable connections together.
Final Thought: Networking is About Staying Relevant—Not Being Salesy
The best networkers don’t just show up to events and hope for the best. They actively stay in touch with their contacts in creative, non-salesy ways—and that’s what makes them the first person people think of when they need a referral.
Take action today: Pick one of these strategies and reach out to someone in your network. You never know where the next opportunity will come from!
Would you like any tweaks to this before turning it into a full newsletter article? Or do you want a call-to-action at the end encouraging members to try a specific strategy?