As industry events like ICEF Berlin wrap up, educational institutions worldwide are heading home with pockets full of business cards and promising connections. However, the real value of such networking events is often cultivated in the crucial weeks that follow. Let’s explore why it’s so important to follow up effectively with the people you meet at industry events.

Convert connections into partnerships

While initial meetings spark potential collaborations, it’s the follow-up that transforms these into concrete partnerships. At major networking events, agents and service providers meet dozens of institutions, making it crucial to stand out from the crowd. Following up promptly and personalising your communication will keep your business top-of-mind and help you build meaningful partnerships.

Two key follow-up channels

Email and social media, particularly LinkedIn, are powerful tools for post-event outreach. The key is in how you use them. Keep your communications brief and friendly, avoiding information overload. Consider including an event photo, such as a selfie with your new contact, along with a short anecdote about when it was taken. Share these moments on both your personal and company LinkedIn profiles, tagging your new connections. This dual approach maintains visibility while fostering closer relationships, making it easier for contacts to reach out when the time is right.

Educational institutions invest significantly in attending international education events – from registration fees to travel expenses and staff time. Without proper follow-up, this investment yields only a fraction of its potential return. Remember, effective follow-up isn’t about immediate results – it’s about building a professional network that can benefit your institution for years to come. Stay tuned for tomorrow’s How to Tuesday article with more tips on how to execute an effective follow-up strategy!

Written by Stephanie Clark