Follow Up Guide
Following up with people is an incredibly important part of what we do, and is vital to mobilization! Always assume the best of people (they're not ignoring you to be mean!) and remember that just about everyone has a busy life. It is our responsibility to follow up appropriately, professionally, and in a timely manner.
Lead Types
Lead from a Class Presentation
1
Reach out to initially invite for coffee.
2
No response? Follow up 72 hours later.
3
No response? Follow up 1 week later.
4
No response? Follow up 1.5 weeks later.
5
No response? Put a pin in it and plan to reach out in 2-3 months.
Professor You Want to Meet With
1
Reach out to initially schedule a meeting.
2
No response? Follow up 48 hours later.
3
No response? Follow up 1 week later.
4
No response? Follow up 1.5 weeks later.
5
No response? Put a pin in it and plan to reach out in 2-3 months.
Zombie Lead
1
Reach out to check interest and offer a coffee meeting.
2
No response? Follow up 72 hours later.
3
No response? Follow up 1 week later.
4
No response? Follow up 2 weeks later.
5
No response? Put a pin in it and plan to reach out in 2-3 months.
What is a zombie lead? Any person who has expressed interest in the past, but hasn't actually taken a step forward yet! Most students who have heard about ELIC on your campus are considered zombies.
A Few Extra Tips
Following up is the norm in the professional world. Be persistent!
Don't take it personally if someone doesn't respond.
Make each of your subsequent messages short and more to the point.
Consider offering times YOU are available to meet so it feels easier for them to commit. Example: "I'm free from 1-4 every Thursday afternoon, if you want to grab coffee during that time!"
Keep your tone lighthearted, warm, and friendly, even if it's the third follow-up with no response.
Ending your message with "What do you think?" invites a person to respond more than "Let me know!"
Know that your messages are planting seeds, even if you don't get to see the fruit.