By Tian · Founder, GoPrep · First written 2022 · Last updated
Two messages: a thank-you to send right after a networking call, and an update to send later so the person knows how things turned out.
Right after the call
Hi [Name],
Thank you for speaking with me today. Your explanation of [specific topic] helped me understand [specific takeaway]. I’m going to [concrete next step] based on your suggestion.
I really appreciate your advice and will keep you posted on how it goes.
Best, [Name]
Later, when something has happened
Hi [Name],
I wanted to follow up on our conversation in [month]. Based on your advice, I [what you did, such as applied to the program you mentioned or started learning a skill you recommended]. [What happened: which round you reached, whether you got the offer, and what you plan to adjust.]
Thank you again for your time. Your advice helped me decide what to do next.
Best, [Name]
When to use it
Write the thank-you soon after the call, while the conversation is fresh. My habit is about twenty minutes.
Keep it short: thank her for her time, mention one or two specific takeaways, and say what you plan to do next.
Send the update when something real happens, such as applying, finishing a round, or getting a result. Around three months can be a checkpoint to look back over your contacts.
Reply in the original email thread so she can find your earlier conversation.
Common mistakes
Putting off the thank-you until you forget.
Thanking someone and never telling her how things turned out.
Waiting for good news before you write. Follow up even if you didn’t get the offer, and never make up a result to please her.
Sending scheduled updates when nothing has happened.