From hello to follow-up

How to make the most of every conference connection

Whether heading to a local networking mixer or a multi-day international conference, the real value isn’t in collecting business cards but in turning those initial conversations into lasting business relationships.

In this post, I’ll walk you through a simple before-during-after framework you can use to maximize every conference connection. These are the same steps I use, whether attending events worldwide or networking at a local business mixer where I live at Lidingö, outside Stockholm.

Why most service providers miss the mark with conferences 

Many entrepreneurs go to events with great intentions but leave without any meaningful follow-up. They show up, make some small talk, collect a few names… and then get right back into the whirlwind of business without following up.

What gets lost? 

• Clients and warm leads
• Dream collaborations
• Potential podcast guests
• Referral partners
• [what you want as an outcome]

In short, real opportunities.

The conference networking framework: Before, during, and after 

Let’s break it down.

✅ BEFORE the event: Prepare with purpose 

Don’t just show up and hope for the best. Prepare like a pro.

• Research who’s attending. If the event has a list, do a bit of background checking. Who do you want to meet? Why?
• Block time for follow-up. Your calendar should already have space the week after the event to follow up.
• Create email or DM templates. Write a few short follow-up messages before you even attend. It will make your post-event workflow smoother.
• Segment your follow-up. Will you follow up differently with potential clients, collaborators, or podcast guests? Create tags or categories ahead of time.

👉 We use our done-for-you follow-up system, Network Booster, which we built in Keap, to streamline this process. Check it out here!

✅ DURING the Event: Be approachable and intentional 

You don’t have to speak to everyone. Focus on meaningful connections.

• Arrive early to network before things get started.
• Sit by new people in each session or at lunch.
• Ask for their card; don’t just hand out yours.
• Use a QR code with your key links—LinkedIn, scheduling link, or “get to know me” page.
• Always personalize connection requests or phone bump exchanges.

🎁 Pro tip: I always bring Swedish chocolate. It’s a fun icebreaker, it gives people a reason to remember you, and it often leads to deeper conversations. What’s your “Swedish chocolate”?

✅ AFTER the event: Follow up like a pro 

Here’s where most people drop the ball—and where you can stand out.

• Follow up within 48 hours (or communicate that you will follow up next week if you are traveling) while the conversation remains fresh. 
• Personalize your message: remind them where you met and what you discussed.
• Use a CRM or spreadsheet to track next steps. (We use Keap and have a ready-made system called Network Booster if you want a head start.)

How the Business Heroes® Grid supports your networking strategy 

You might be surprised to hear that we also use the Business Heroes® Grid to plan in-person networking. 

Here’s how:

It’s not just a framework—it’s your map from first “hello” to lasting partnership.

Real-world example: My latest conference in Arizona 

At a recent partner event in Arizona, I used this exact framework. The results?

• New podcast guest invitations
• New affiliate partner conversations
• Referrals from fellow attendees
• Stronger relationships with existing partners

All from showing up prepared, staying present, and following up intentionally.

Ready to level up your networking? 

Here’s how we can help:

✅ Join the free masterclass: How to get more out of your professional networking - without the overwhelm. 

✅ Streamline your follow-up: Check out our Network Booster we have built on Keap. It’s the proven framework we use to turn contacts into actual business results.

 ✅ Use the Grid to plan your strategy: Download the Business Heroes® Grid—it’s free and helps you map your offers, content, and connections to your client journey.

What’s your biggest takeaway from this post? Drop a DM on Insta or Linkedin or send me an email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

I’d love to hear what’s working for you—and what you’re ready to improve.

Boosting you and your business, one step at a time.

Sarah

🟡 This blog is an extract from our latest episode of Boost Your Business LIVE!

👉 Watch the recording on YouTube 

🎧 Listen to the podcast version

📅 Boost Your Business LIVE happens (almost) every Wednesday at 3 PM CEST.

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