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I often meet people at conferences who are really interesting and do similar work at companies as I do in grad school. Ideally I wish to have them as a part of my network to facilitate job search st the end of my graduation but I am unable to think of ways to keep in touch with them. I usually send an email a day or two after the conference thanking them and summarising what we spoke about but I don't know how to maintain these contacts |
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After sending the initial email, I add my new contacts to a self-maintained database. A simple Excel sheet with Name, Email/Phone and a few notes about where I met them and what we talked about. I find that a good way to keep in touch without demanding a conversation is to send them interesting articles/papers/blogposts that touch on their field or a topic you discussed when you first met. This is better than emailing "Just wanted to say hi". It gives them a basis of response, even if it is just, "interesting, thanks". I also forward any job or other opportunities that are emailed to me. Of course, don't be too spammy. Make sure it is something the recipient would be happy to receive. |
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LinkedIn is an excellent way to establish and maintain those links for the future. It also lets you see their contacts so you can see the types of professions they deal with or have dealt with during their careers. If they are keeping their LinkedIn account updated, you will also be able to keep up with them if they change companies or work locations. They might no send you an email if this changes, and then the connection is lost. The short email post-conference can be sent as part of the LinkedIn invite to them. |
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