How should I follow up with an investor after a meeting?
Short answer
I follow up with investors by listening carefully, documenting what matters to them, and contacting them when I have something genuinely valuable to share. I do not believe in repeatedly sending generic pitches or asking whether someone has reviewed my materials. The goal is to build a relationship where the investor recognizes that I understand their priorities and respect their time. Being politely persistent is important, but every interaction should have a purpose.
Checklist
- Take detailed notes during the investor meeting.
- Record their investment preferences and concerns.
- Identify what information or introductions would be valuable.
- Use a CRM or reminder system to organize follow-ups.
- Send relevant ideas and updates the investor can use.
- Ask thoughtful questions when an investor declines.
- Respect their preferred communication method.
- Build relationships for the long term, without pressure for an immediate commitment.
From my talks
"I only follow up when I have something of great value, not to pitch random ideas or make introductions they didn't ask for."
I shared how we pursued the acquisition of Billionaires.com through repeated follow-ups over a long period, eventually completing the transaction at less than half the original asking price. In another example, we exchanged more than 120 emails while pursuing the acquisition of a community in the medical industry. That transaction eventually closed for $400,000, against an original asking price of $3 million. Both were acquisition negotiations. I follow up with investors the same patient way.
What to do next
- Record the investor's priorities, objections, and potential areas of mutual interest.
- Send a concise follow-up that addresses something specific from your conversation.
- Establish a reminder to reconnect when you have meaningful information to share.
Related questions
- How do you pitch an investor for the first time?
- How do I prepare for investor due diligence?
- How much money should I raise?
Work through it with the investor meeting prep and follow-up checklist.
