Follow-Up Cadence Optimization
Strategic spacing and sequencing of touchpoints with LPs after initial meetings to maintain engagement without over-pursuing.
Optimal cadence maintains top-of-mind presence and demonstrates professionalism—too frequent annoys; too sparse loses momentum.
Expanded Definition
Follow-up cadence varies by stage: post-first-meeting (3-5 days: thank you + materials), active engagement (10-14 days: value-add updates, answers to questions), diligence phase (weekly: progress updates, information requests), waiting periods (monthly: relevant market insights, portfolio wins, not hard sells), decision proximity (pre-IC: ensure readiness; post-IC: coordination).
Touchpoint value hierarchy: high-value (answering their questions, relevant portfolio updates, market insights they care about), medium-value (general newsletters, fund updates), low-value (check-in emails with no substance, repeated asks for status). Quality and relevance matter more than frequency.
Signals & Evidence
Cadence optimization factors:
- LP responsiveness: Quick responses = maintain cadence; slow/no response = space out or change approach
- Stated preferences: "Update me monthly" > guessing; respect stated timelines
- Decision stage: Active diligence = weekly acceptable; passive waiting = monthly maximum
- Relationship strength: Strong relationships tolerate higher frequency; new relationships require spacing
- Content value: High-value updates (portfolio wins, market insights) warrant reaching out; low-value content should wait
Decision Framework
- Cadence scheduling: Post-meeting (3-5 days), active engagement (10-14 days), diligence (weekly), waiting (monthly)
- Value requirement: Every touchpoint should provide value (answer question, share insight, deliver requested info)—no "just checking in" emails
- Adjustment triggers: No response to 2+ touchpoints = space out further or try different channel; enthusiastic engagement = maintain cadence
Common Misconceptions
"More frequent = more engaged" → Over-contact annoys LPs; quality and relevance matter more than frequency. "Following up = pushing" → Value-add follow-ups (insights, answers) strengthen relationship; empty check-ins harm it. "Silence = disinterest" → LPs get busy; respectful persistence with valuable content can re-engage.
Key Takeaways
- Follow-up cadence should match decision stage (weekly during diligence, monthly during waiting) and LP responsiveness
- Every touchpoint must provide value (answer questions, share insights, deliver info)—"just checking in" emails harm relationships
- Adjust cadence based on LP responsiveness (no response = space out; engagement = maintain) and stated preferences