Don’t forget to send a follow-up thank you message! If you found the conversation meaningful, keep in touch- share updates, send a thank you note after you apply/get into a program. A thank-you goes a long way. 

Below is a template for a follow-up thank-you message.

Thank You Message Template

Hi [Name], 

Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with me [yesterday/today/earlier this week]. I really appreciated hearing about your experience in [Program Name] and your insights. 

Our conversation gave me a better understanding of [something you learned or found valuable], and I feel more confident as I continue exploring [graduate school/the program/my next steps].

Thank you again for your time and generosity in sharing your experience. I truly appreciate it and hope to stay in touch. 

Best,

[Your Name]

Maintaining Your Network

Building connections is important, but maintaining them is just as essential- especially when using platforms like LinkedIn. Staying engaged online may help “warm” your relationships over time and make future outreach feel more natural.

Simple actions such as liking or commenting on someone's posts allow them to see your name periodically, which may keep you on their radar. This ongoing visibility may increase the likelihood that they will remember you and be open to engaging when you reach out down the line. 

Maintaining your network doesn’t require constant messaging; small consistent interactions go a long way.