If you’ve had multiple positions, whether as an intern, volunteer, or employee, it can be difficult to keep in touch with your expanding connections. Part of evolving as a professional is being able to manage and keep your network alive while in between jobs or gainfully employed. Having a large and responsive network is beneficial in a number of ways:
- Personal referrals continue to be the way to get hired – over half of job seekers have been hired through a friend’s referral
- Can be a resource of knowledge if you need help
- Can allow you to learn and discuss topics and issues related to your field
Unfortunately, there is no exact formula for retaining your network, but if you have coworkers from past experience that you haven’t contacted in a while, consider taking the initiative to keep them in your network. Luke Roney of CareerBliss offers five ways to stay connected – see below for my three top picks:
Make it Happen. Be the first to reach out and spark up a conversation. Ask about them and how they are doing. Your talking points do not necessarily have to be work-related, but keep it professional nonetheless.
Help Out. If you feel like you’re becoming overly dependent on your network, volunteering to help others is a great way to renew coworkers’ interest. In doing so, it’ll give you a good way to initiate contact and make you into a valuable contact.
Offer To Meet in Person. Like Roney mentions, “nothing compares to some good old fashioned face time.” Attending lunch, events, or even creating a small party/cocktail hour can help get you more motivated to reconnect.
For more networking tips, see “6 Networking Tips That Pay Off” and “A College Grad’s Guide To Networking”
Do you agree that former coworkers are worth remaining connected? How do you keep in touch with your connections, past or present?
