Follow Up Without Feeling Awkward

✍️ By Debbie Balfour | WBN News | January 13, 2026 | Click HERE for your FREE Subscription to WBN News and/or to be a Contributor.

Most people hate following up. They don’t want to feel pushy. They don’t want to feel salesy. They don’t want to bother anyone. What they don’t love is pressure. And that’s the difference. You’re not following up to pitch; you’re following up to connect. And when you learn how to do that with ease, your networking, your CRM, and your entire business transform.

The Secret to Great Follow-Up Is Simple: Make It About Them

Follow-up feels awkward when it’s focused on your agenda. But when it’s focused on their goals, it becomes natural.

Just say something like:

“I really enjoyed our conversation. How did that project you mentioned turn out?”
“You popped into my mind today, hope your week is going strong.”
“Here’s the resource I mentioned, and I thought it might help.”

No pressure. No pitch. Just presence. That’s how trust is built.

The Most Powerful Follow-Up Is Prompt

Following up within 24–48 hours does two things:

It proves you’re reliable.
It keeps the connection warm.

A simple message after a networking event can open doors effortlessly. Most people won’t do this, which is why the ones who do stand out immediately.

Your CRM Makes Follow-Up Feel Natural, Not Forced

When you use your CRM the right way, follow-up becomes effortless because you have:
✔ notes from your conversation
✔ tags identifying interests or needs
✔ reminders for future touchpoints

Instead of guessing what to say, you’re simply continuing the conversation. Your CRM becomes your memory and your momentum.

Follow-Up Turns Contacts Into Community

Anyone can collect business cards. Anyone can shake hands. Anyone can chat at an event. But very few people follow up consistently. And that’s why the ones who do become unforgettable. Follow-up isn’t an obligation; it’s an advantage. A simple message can turn a stranger into a relationship, and a relationship into an opportunity.

If you want more growth, more support, more referrals, more visibility, then start following up. Without awkwardness. Without pressure. Without overthinking it. Just reach out like a human. People will remember you for it.

Debbie Balfour | Real Estate Investing Success Coach + Podcast Host
📍 Website: www.DebbieBalfour.com
📧 Email: Debbie@DebbieBalfour.com
🔗 LinkedIn: Debbie Balfour
▶️ YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@DebbieBalfour

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TAGS: #Networking Tips #Follow Up Strategy #Build Trust #Real Estate Investing #Relationship Marketing #Success Habits #WBN News Langley #WBN News Abbotsford #WBN News Okanagan #Debbie Balfour