It’s an easy thing to picture, almost an exercise in positive energy: You’ve just attended an online networking event, you’ve wowed any number of new connections, potential employers, and hiring managers, and you’ve switched the camera off for a well-earned rest. 

Except your work isn’t quite over.

Like you, it’s possible the employers or hiring managers in question enjoyed several positive interactions in the span of an hour or two. While you may have shared contact information or application materials, or even promised to reconnect, your next communication can help set the tone for a more serious (and potentially more rewarding) conversation.

Check out these five tips for your follow-up:

1. Don’t put it off. Experts may vary in their advice on when to send your follow-up message – some say immediately, some say within a day or two, others say wait a bit longer – but settle on a time and follow through. You may want to avoid seeming too eager, but don’t let a delay lead to a distraction and, ultimately, a missed opportunity. If needed, set a calendar reminder.

2. Be thankful (and specific). In addition to showing your appreciation, make reference to a topic mentioned during your interaction. If possible, highlight a topic that allows for an easy transition to your skill set or the job you’re seeking. Didn’t get a chance to finish a conversation on a particular point? Your follow-up could include an invitation to continue the discussion.

3. Be personal. Remember, it is about relationship building. Online templates for follow-up communications are just a few clicks away, but even the best online templates are still ... well, online templates. Your follow-up message should highlight a personal connection achieved during the networking session, not include the same buzzwords as everybody else’s emails.

4. Get connected. If you haven’t followed your new connection on LinkedIn, now is the time. Your connection request will serve as another memory-jogger, and you’ll have the perfect platform to stay in touch. When making the request, be sure to add a personal note to remind them who you are, where you met, and why you would like to connect.

[RELATED: MOAA on LinkedIn]

5. Always be closing. An earlier MOAA article on the subject summed things up thusly: “Think of the thank-you note as a closing paragraph to the interview discussion, and use it to highlight your best qualities, express gratitude for the opportunity to be considered, and add an exclamation point to your interest in the position.” Even if your discussion didn’t involve a specific opportunity, your engagement not only demonstrates your interest, but also how you would perform working for them. All employers value relationship-building, strong communication skills, passion and enthusiasm, and follow-up.

Need more advice on career communications? From self-marketing materials such as cover letters and résumés  to reference letters and all things in between, visit MOAA’s Transition and Career Center for news updates, upcoming virtual and in-person events, exclusive career-consultation benefits for Premium and Life members, and much more.