How to Follow Up After a Conversation Without Being Annoying (For New College Graduates)

How to Follow Up After a Conversation Without Being Annoying (For New College Graduates)

As a new graduate entering the professional world, following up after a conversation—whether it’s a job interview, networking event, or informational meeting—can help you stand out. However, there’s a fine line between showing enthusiasm and coming across as pushy. So, how do you follow up effectively without being annoying?

For starters, it’s important to recognize that sometimes there isn’t an update for you and that’s why you have not heard anything.  Most people want to be helpful to you, and when they can’t make the connection, they feel embarrassed or ashamed they couldn’t be the hero they wanted to be.  Others might think you are not a fit for what’s available, or don’t care for the hiring manager and are concerned about putting new talent with them.  You may not know the whole reason for lack of follow up, but you can provide some space and time for them to consider other ways to help you.

Always remember, asking for help must be reciprocal.      

Therefore the recommendations below indicate an ask and an offer, which takes some of the rub out of follow up.

1. Set the Stage Before You Leave the Conversation

Before wrapping up any discussion, make it easier to follow up by setting clear expectations. Try asking:

• “Would it be okay if I followed up with you next week?”
• “What’s the best way to stay in touch—email or text?”
• “I’d love to learn more. Would it be alright if I reached out for a follow-up chat?”

This makes your follow-up feel natural rather than unexpected.

2. Follow Up at the Right Time

Timing is key. You want to follow up while the conversation is still fresh, but not too soon. Here’s a general guide:

• After a job interview: Send a thank-you email within 24 hours. If you haven’t heard back after a week, a polite check-in is appropriate.
• After a networking event: Reach out within 2-3 days to remind them of your conversation.
• After an informational interview: Thank them the next day and keep in touch periodically.

3. Make Your Follow-Up Valuable

Instead of just saying, “I wanted to follow up,” offer something meaningful. Here are a few ways to do that:

• Reference your conversation: “I really appreciated your information about the entry level role.  If you or your colleagues needed several candidates, I have some outstanding leaders that graduated with me at the same time.”
• Share an update: “I found this article on Wall Street Journal about the topic we were discussing and wanted to share it with you.  Sounds like there have been further developments around the purchase of the building we discussed.”
• Express genuine interest: “I am connected to the Vice President of New Business at XX company.  If you think an intro makes sense, I am happy to do that for you.”

4. Keep It Short and Direct

People are busy, so keep your follow-up brief. A simple email template could look like this:

Subject: Thank You & Staying in Touch

Hi [Name],

I really enjoyed our conversation about [specific topic] the other day. Your insights on [mention something specific] were really helpful, and I appreciate you taking the time to chat.

I’d love to stay in touch and hear more about your work at [Company]. Please let me know if you’re open to connecting again in the future. Thanks again!

Best,
[Your Name]

This keeps things professional, warm, and to the point.

5. Switch Up Your Approach If Needed

If you don’t get a response, don’t panic—it doesn’t mean they’re ignoring you. People get busy! If you initially emailed, try a short LinkedIn message. If you spoke in person, a follow-up email might work best. A gentle nudge after a week or two is fine, but avoid excessive follow-ups.

6. Know When to Move On

If you’ve followed up twice and haven’t received a response, it’s okay to let it go. A final message like this keeps the door open without being overbearing:

"I know you’re busy, so I just wanted to send a quick thank you again. I’d love to stay in touch and will follow your work on LinkedIn. Wishing you all the best!"

This keeps your professional reputation intact while leaving room for future connections.

Final Thoughts

As a new graduate, following up the right way can make a lasting impression and open doors for opportunities. Be professional, thoughtful, and respectful of people’s time, and you’ll build a strong network that can help you throughout your career.