Thread by @kayangrum

Here’s some post-@NABJ convention advice: Don’t forget to send out those follow-up emails ‼️ 📤 #NABJ19

👇🏾 is a thread to help you feel a little less overwhelmed when preparing to send them out/what to do after. 🎉

Suggestion 1:

Once you’ve sorted all your business cards and LinkedIn requests, finish a draft for each new connection tonight — that way all you have to do is press send first thing in the morning.

(Remember to double-check for any typos or forgotten attachments! 🔗)

Suggestion 2:

Don’t underestimate a connection! If your goal is to get a job, then YES — I say totally get those emails out ASAP, but remember to think long-term...

You never know when or where a new opportunity will come knocking! 1/2

Example:

If you had a reallyyy good convo with someone at @NABJ or saw something that piqued your interest, shoot them an email to thank them for their time and your hopes to stay in touch.

Plus on the receiving end I imagine it feels good that someone thought to say hello. 2/2

Suggestion 3:

In your email, try to note something the person said that stood out during that workshop or conversation. I’m a fan of “gems” (aka solid advice or life and career advice that speaks to you), so I’m always listening out for those!

“I really loved when you said....”

Suggestion 4:

I’d also note any suggested changes to a resumé, website, or reel that you made since you and the person last spoke, if you found them helpful!

Then attach it or link to that bad boy so they can see you took what they said and got 👏🏾 it 👏🏾 done.

Suggestion 5:

If the person you’re emailing and the subject/topic/opportunity you’re now following-up on is MAJOR... it’s worth it to have a friend or relative give a last look over it for you. They can help you get rid of any extra words, commas, or unnecessary lines...

Suggestion 6:

WHICH! Leads me to my next advice. Keep those emails short! Concise and to the point. Not too lengthy (I promise there is always something you can ✂️)

Remind them who you are + how you met. What you do and where you are based + a gem or takeaway, & you are done.

Suggestion 7:

Now! If the person you’re emailing you met on the basis of getting a job, etc., then totally fine to note that you have applied, reference #, etc.

Otherwise, a.) hope to stay in touch or b.) hope to be considered for a future opportunity.

Just thanks is also 👍🏾

Suggestion 8:

Once you send them out (between now and the next week or so IMO!), give yourself a pat on the back and relaaaaaxx 💆🏽‍♀️ lol

MOST IMPORTANTLY:

Don’t get discouraged! If you don’t get an immediate response, *breathe* and don’t freak out. People get busy! 🤷🏿‍♂️

Suggestion 9:

There’s always the follow-up to the follow-up! 😂 Everyone’s timeline varies, there’s probably an article on this somewhere, but my personal timeframe is to give it a week (if it’s a coffee or call ya’ll discussed setting up), or a time sensitive situation. 1/2

2/2 Keep in mind as journalists we’re all over the place covering a bazillion different things! Try to keep track of when it’s busiest for your contact.

EXAMPLE:

Entertainment folks = awards season

Sports peeps = Drafts, openers

Politics = 24/7 (especially trail folks!)

Suggestion 10:

And finally... what to do if you never hear back. 😱 I know. It sucks, but it could be a million different factors, which is why I think it’s best to leave *certain* emails open ended.

Aka why I like the “Hope to keep in touch” route, if not time sensitive! 1/2

2/2 SO! Keep hope alive and be proud of yourself for being on top of your ish! You did your part and the rest you leave up to God. 🙏🏾

(But, like, I’m also not mad at following up in a few months just to check in or give an update! Inboxes get full, folks forget to respond.)

Just remember 👇🏾🎉 #NABJ19 💙