Following up after a meeting is one of those things that can really set you apart in the business world. A well-written business follow-up email can be the key to keeping that momentum going, making sure everyone’s on the same page and whatnot. Whether you’re hustling in sales, working as a sales development rep, or running the show solo as a founder, nailing that crisp and effective follow-up email is your ticket to showing just how professional you are.
Why Follow Up?
Sending a follow-up email isn’t just a box-ticking exercise; it matters for quite a few reasons:
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Keeps the Ball Rolling: It tells the other person, “Hey, your time matters to me.” It’s a small gesture, sure, but it’s huge for building and nurturing those business relationships.
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Clears the Air: If bits of the conversation were fuzzy, jotting them down can clear things up in the long run.
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Sets the Stage: Outlining what’s next gives everyone a roadmap. It’s like saying, “Here’s the game plan, let’s hit it.”
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Shows You’re Serious: Crafting a thoughtful follow-up email screams dedication and professionalism—clients and partners notice that stuff.
Crafting the Perfect Follow-Up Email
Want to ace your follow-up email? Here’s the secret sauce:
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Get It Out There Fast: Aim to send it within a day. Keeps things fresh and shows you’re on top of it.
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Hit Them With the Essentials: Nobody’s got time for a novel; keep it sharp and clear, so your main points don’t get lost.
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Make the Subject Line Clear: Something like “Following Up After Our Meeting” makes your intention obvious.
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Show Some Gratitude: A simple “Thanks for meeting up” can set a positive tone right from the start.
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Recap Like a Pro: Go over the heavyweight points, like key decisions or details.
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Map Out the Next Moves: Specify what’s expected from everyone going forward.
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Share Resources, If Needed: If you’ve got files or links they might appreciate, attach those.
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Be Warm, Not Overly Formal: Professional is good, but a touch of warmth can help build rapport.
Sample Follow-Up Emails
Example 1: The Quick Recap Email
Subject: Following Up After Our Meeting
Hey [Recipient’s Name],
Just wanted to drop a quick note to say thanks for meeting with me yesterday. Loved chatting about [specific topic].
Here’s a quick rundown of what we covered:
- Item 1: [Detail]
- Item 2: [Detail]
Next up, I’ll [your action item] by [deadline]. Do you think you could [recipient’s action item]?
Can’t wait to keep this going.
Cheers,
[Your Name]
Example 2: Networking Followup
Subject: Great Meeting You at [Event Name]
Hi [Recipient’s Name],
It was awesome meeting you at [event name] last week. Loved your thoughts on [specific topic].
Thought you might dig this resource link based on our chat.
Let’s stay in touch—I’m keen to hear more about what’s on your horizon.
Take care,
[Your Name]
Jazzing Up Your Follow-Up Email
Want to really make that email pop? Here’s how:
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Refer to Specific Chat Points: Bring up something specific you talked about. Shows you were really listening.
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Make It Personal: Use their name, mention their company, or speak to their role. Makes it more relatable.
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Add a Personal Touch: If you bonded over something personal, like a hobby, bring it up—it can add warmth.
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Ask for Their Thoughts: Keep the convo going by asking for their opinion on something you discussed.
Wrapping It Up
A post-meeting follow-up isn’t just politeness; it’s crucial for solid communication and keeping those relationships strong. Use these tips and examples to hit your follow-up emails out of the park.
Remember, a smart follow-up could lead to those exciting next steps you’re hoping for.
Need more pointers on writing killer follow-up emails? Feel free to reach out anytime.
No matter if this is your first follow-up email or you’re a seasoned pro looking to tweak your game, the aim is the same: be clear, keep it brief, and make sure you’re communicating effectively. Implement these strategies and watch your email game soar.
FAQ
A business follow-up email is a message sent after a meeting to recap discussions, express appreciation, and outline next steps.
It reinforces your commitment to the conversation, shows professionalism, and helps maintain communication with the recipient.
Include a thank-you note, key points discussed, action items, and any additional information that may help the recipient.
Refer to specific points discussed in the meeting and tailor the message to the recipient's needs and preferences.
Keep it concise, use a clear subject line, send it promptly, and maintain a friendly yet professional tone.