The coffee chat went great. You had a real connection. You said "let's stay in touch."

And then... nothing.

Most people never follow up. Those who do often send something so generic it might as well be spam. Here are templates that actually work.

Template 1: The Same-Day Thank You

Send this within 24 hours of any meeting.

Subject: Great meeting you today

Hi [Name],

Really enjoyed our conversation about [specific topic you discussed]. 
Your insight about [something memorable they said] gave me a lot to think about.

I'll definitely [action you committed to], and I'll keep you posted on how it goes.

Thanks again for the time—hope to stay in touch.

Best,
[Your name]

Why it works: It's specific, it's timely, and it references something real from the conversation.

Template 2: The Value-Add Follow-Up

Send this 1-2 weeks later with something useful.

Subject: Thought you'd find this interesting

Hi [Name],

I came across [article/podcast/event] and immediately thought of our conversation 
about [topic]. Figured you might find it interesting: [link]

Hope things are going well with [something they mentioned working on].

Best,
[Your name]

Why it works: You're giving, not asking. This builds goodwill and keeps you top of mind.

Template 3: The Warm Introduction Request

When you want to expand your network through someone you know.

Subject: Quick favor if you have a minute

Hi [Name],

I've been doing research on [industry/company/role] and noticed you're connected 
to [person's name] on LinkedIn. 

Would you be comfortable making an intro? I'd love to learn more about 
[specific thing about their work]. Happy to draft something to make it easy for you.

No pressure either way—I know these asks can be awkward!

Best,
[Your name]

Why it works: You're specific about why, you offer to do the work, and you give them an easy out.

Template 4: The Check-In (3-6 months)

For keeping warm relationships warm.

Subject: How's [thing they were working on] going?

Hi [Name],

It's been a few months since we caught up and I was just thinking about 
you—curious how [project/transition/goal they mentioned] is going.

On my end, [one sentence update about something relevant to them].

Would love to grab coffee again sometime if you're up for it.

Best,
[Your name]

Why it works: It's personal, shows you remember details, and makes reconnecting natural.

Template 5: The Post-Interview Thank You

Within 24 hours of any interview.

Subject: Thank you for the conversation

Hi [Name],

Thank you for taking the time to speak with me about the [role] position. 
I'm even more excited about the opportunity after learning more about 
[specific thing: the team's approach to X, the upcoming project, etc.].

Our discussion about [specific topic] really resonated with me, especially 
[your take or relevant experience].

I look forward to the next steps. Please let me know if you need any 
additional information.

Best,
[Your name]

Why it works: Specific, enthusiastic, and reinforces your fit for the role.

Pro Tips for All Follow-Ups

Keep it short. Three paragraphs max.
One ask per email. Don't stack requests.
Make the subject line specific. "Following up" is the worst possible subject line.
Track everything. You can't follow up if you don't remember when you last connected.

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