How and When to follow up!

by | Mar 2, 2025 | Social Strategy Guide | 0 comments

Follow-Up Fundamentals: The Best Ways to Text, Call, or DM After an Event

Hey fam! Let me kick things off with a quick, slightly cringe-worthy personal story that highlights the importance of effective follow-ups. If you’re eager to jump straight into the tips, feel free to skip ahead!

I once met someone fantastic at an event, and we exchanged numbers. Excited but nervous, I procrastinated and didn’t text until a week later. By then, she’d completely forgotten who I was—but agreed to a date anyway. During dinner, she confessed she initially thought I was someone else from the event, someone she liked more. The delay was so long she’d forgotten everyone’s names! Ouch. Lesson learned: timely and purposeful follow-ups matter!

Here’s your streamlined guide to mastering follow-ups, turning event connections into meaningful dates or lasting friendships.

1. Reach Out Promptly and Purposefully

  • Contact within 24–48 hours to ensure you’re still fresh in their memory.
  • Mention something specific and memorable from your conversation.
  • Example: “Hey [Name], I’m still laughing about your karaoke story. Want to grab coffee this weekend?”

2. Keep It Fun and Engaging

  • Maintain a relaxed and playful tone.
  • Avoid generic questions like, “What are you doing?” Instead, suggest clear, appealing plans.

3. Respect Their Time and Space

  • Keep messages concise and purposeful.
  • If responses seem lukewarm, give space and reconnect after a week or two with a fresh, engaging message.
  • Stay confident and positive regardless of their response.

4. Pivot Gracefully to Friendship if Needed

  • If the romantic connection isn’t mutual, be upfront and kind.
  • Example: “Hey, it feels like we might click better as friends—I genuinely enjoy spending time with you. Want to team up and help each other meet new people at future events?”

Practical Exercises to Master Follow-Ups

Exercise 1: Quick Response Drill

  • After every event, send a follow-up message within 24 hours referencing a specific detail from your interaction.

Exercise 2: Date Idea Brainstorm

  • Regularly list fun and engaging date ideas to have ready when following up.

Exercise 3: Friendship Pivot Practice

  • Practice gently steering conversations toward friendship in situations where romantic feelings aren’t mutual.

Follow these tips and exercises, and you’ll confidently handle follow-ups, fostering meaningful and authentic connections. Happy texting!