You went to the career fair. You collected business cards. You had a few great conversations. Now what?

Making contacts is only the first step — what really matters is what you do after the introduction. Turning contacts into opportunities requires intention, follow-up, and a willingness to continue the conversation beyond the initial meeting.

Here's how to transform a quick interaction into something meaningful.

1. Follow Up Within 48 Hours

After meeting a recruiter or professional, send a short thank-you email or LinkedIn message. Mention:

• Where you met (e.g., the UMBC Career Fair)
• Something specific you discussed
• The role or opportunity that interests you

This small step helps them remember you — and signals professionalism.

2. Connect the Conversation to Action

If you discussed a specific position, apply soon after following up. In your application or message, reference your conversation. For example:

"I enjoyed speaking with you at the UMBC Career Fair about the XYZ position and have submitted my application."

This reinforces your interest and keeps your name top of mind.

3. Show Continued Interest

Opportunities don't always happen instantly. Stay engaged by attending events like employer info sessions, recruitment events, and workshops. Seeing you show up more than once demonstrates genuine interest and persistence.

4. Ask Smart, Specific Questions

If you attend a recruitment session, ask questions that show you've done your research. Instead of asking, "What do you do?" try:

• "What skills make someone successful in this role?"
• "What does the first year typically look like?"
• "What advice would you give someone preparing to apply?"

Thoughtful questions deepen the connection and leave a stronger impression.

5. Keep Building Momentum

Not every contact will lead to an immediate offer — but every interaction builds your network and strengthens your confidence. Networking is a long game. The more consistently you engage, the more opportunities will surface over time. Having an interconnected network across industries can become one of your greatest career assets. 

Take the Next Step

Ready to turn your connections into real opportunities? Join the IBM Z and Social Security Administration Recruitment Session to meet recruiters, learn about open roles, and continue building relationships that can move your career forward.

A single conversation can change your trajectory — but make sure you follow through.

You made the connection at an event — now what? Following up after a networking conversation can feel uncomfortable, especially if you're worried about saying the wrong thing or coming across as pushy. The truth is, thoughtful follow-up is not awkward — it's professional. It's also one of the most effective ways to turn a short interaction into a lasting relationship.

Why Follow-Up Matters

Networking doesn't end when the event does. A follow-up message shows appreciation, reinforces your interest, and helps people remember who you are. Most professionals these days expect a follow-up — and many are happy to continue the conversation if you take the initiative.

Keep It Simple and Timely

You don't need a long or perfectly worded message. Aim to follow up within 24–48 hours with a brief note that:

• Thanks them for their time
• Mentions something specific from your conversation
• Expresses interest in staying connected
• Shares information or resources

A few thoughtful sentences can go much further than silence.

Focus on Connection, Not Asking for a Job

The goal of a follow-up isn't to ask for a job — it's to build rapport. Instead of jumping straight to requests, focus on continuing the relationship. Over time, strong connections naturally lead to opportunities, referrals, and advice, which is crucial given that you're now 20x more likely to get a job from a referral than a cold application.

Use Retrievers Connect to Follow Up with Confidence

Not sure how to reach out? Retrievers Connect makes following up easier and less intimidating. The platform is designed specifically for UMBC students and alumni, creating a supportive space for career conversations, informational interviews, and mentorship.

Because everyone on Retrievers Connect is there to connect, you can reach out knowing the expectation is conversation — not perfection. And if you're hoping to take things a step further and participate in a Retrievers Connect-powered mentorship program, graduate students can check out the Graduate Student Mentoring Network, or the GSMN.

Consistency Builds Confidence

The more you practice following up, the easier it becomes. Each message builds confidence, strengthens your professional presence, and helps you develop a networking style that feels authentic to you. It also tends to sting less when you don't hear back right away. Just go down your list and reach out to the next person. It can start to feel that easy.

Ready to Build Connections That Last?

Start turning conversations into career momentum by using Retrievers Connect to follow up, stay connected, and grow your professional network — without all the awkwardness. Good luck – you got this!