Always Own The Follow Up

Whenever I have a stint of writers block I log onto Twitter and something interesting will pass my eyes that leads my mind back to inspiration.

Thanks to my friend, CJ Romberger, (aka @cjromb on Twitter) for pointing me to the blog of local Austin career passion coach Catherine Jewell (whom I saw yesterday at the NetworkInAustin.com "Netstorming Event"...see how the circle of life works!).


Catherine's most recent blog post was titled "Follow Up Fervently — How Often is That?" in which she reminded job seekers that hiring managers have more to do than sit around thinking about them. Thus, if they want to be top of mind, they must take action and follow up.


Good advice!


And this goes beyond just the job seeker. Anyone who would like to develop a personal or professional relationship with another person must own the follow up.


I often hear from people who say "well, they never called me back" after leaving a single message. While this may mean they were not interested in establishing a connection, it also might just be that they had many other things going on at that time.


Granted you do not want to be a stalker to every new person you encounter, and it is realistic that not everyone will like you (sorry, but some of the folks you meet will not want you as their new best friend!), we have to remember that it takes seven to ten meaningful interactions with someone before a true connection is established. Thus it takes time. If you don't take the actions necessary, then you are guaranteed nothing will ever happen.


If you have followed up several times and you get nothing in return, move on. The world is a big place, and there are lots of other people who will be excited to invest in establishing a bond with you over the long run.


Have A Great Day.


thom