A follow-up email should remind somebody of a real conversation and make it easy to continue the relationship without feeling like an automated sales sequence.
A simple reference to the event, topic or introduction is often better than a clever marketing subject line. The goal is recognition, not curiosity at any cost.
Remind them where you met and mention a specific point you enjoyed discussing. This proves the message is genuinely for them.
If you only spoke for five minutes, asking for a 90-minute meeting may be too much. Suggest the smallest sensible next step: connect on LinkedIn, exchange a resource, arrange a quick call or meet at the next event.
A business card or LinkedIn connection does not automatically mean consent to receive a newsletter. Keep personal follow-up separate from bulk marketing unless the person has explicitly opted in.
Networking improves through repetition. Choose one or two ideas from this guide, use them at your next event, and review what worked afterwards.
If you want to practise these ideas with a friendly group of local business owners, take a look at the next Elevating Business networking events.