OFFLINE IS THE NEW ONLINE 😎
How to Maximize Your ROI on Networking Events📈
Attending in-person networking events—whether it’s a professional conference, a career fair, or an Intern Ship event—can be a game-changer. But the real value isn’t just in showing up. It’s in what you do after the event that determines how much ROI you actually get.
Many people treat networking events as one-time experiences, but if you maximize your follow-up strategy, you can extend the benefits for weeks, months, or even years. Here’s how to make sure you’re getting the most bang for your buck after attending an event.
1. Follow Up & Be Remembered
Most people you meet at an event will interact with dozens of people, and by the next day, they might struggle to remember all their conversations. If you want to stand out, the simplest way is to send a follow-up message through whatever medium they shared with you (LinkedIn, email, or text).
How to Craft a Great Follow-Up Message:
Keep it short and friendly – No need for a long email or DM.
Mention something specific – Reference a topic you discussed or a shared interest to jog their memory.
Express appreciation – A simple “Great meeting you!” goes a long way.
Example message:
“Hey [Name], it was awesome meeting you at [Event Name]! I really enjoyed our conversation about [specific topic]. Looking forward to staying in touch—let’s connect on LinkedIn!”
A quick follow-up makes you 10x more memorable and helps maintain that connection beyond the event.
2. Post on LinkedIn: The Underrated Networking Hack
Most attendees never leverage their event experience online, missing out on an easy way to stand out professionally.
Why Posting on LinkedIn Works:
Shows you’re active in your industry – Employers and recruiters check candidates’ LinkedIn activity. Posting content signals that you’re engaged.
Boosts visibility – Many people you met will see your post and be reminded of you.
Helps you stand out – Not everyone posts about events, so this immediately differentiates you.
Strengthens relationships – Tagging people you met makes them more likely to engage and remember you.
Easy LinkedIn Post Template:
(Feel free to tweak this based on the event you attended.)
🚢 Just got back from [Event Name] and had an incredible time connecting with so many inspiring people!
One of my biggest takeaways was [insert a key insight or experience]. Grateful to have met [@TagPeople] and looking forward to continuing the conversations!
Big shoutout to [@EventOrganizer or @Company] for putting together such an amazing event!
Pro Tip: If you include a photo from the event, your post will get even more engagement! 📸
Bonus: Engage & Keep the Momentum Going
Comment on others’ posts – If you see people you met posting about the event, drop a thoughtful comment.
Reconnect later – A few weeks after the event, reach out again, especially if you talked about a potential collaboration or job opportunity.
Offer value – Share an article, opportunity, or insight that might be useful to them. Networking is a two-way street!
True Networking Happens in the Follow-Up
Most people stop at just attending events, but by reaching out, posting on LinkedIn, and engaging after the event, you multiply the impact of every interaction.
So the next time you attend an event, don’t let the connections fade—nurture them and watch them transform into real opportunities. 🚀