Dear Mike:

I recently reentered the job market and I find myself in a situation that I’m certain many professionals encounter at one point or another during their careers. In the hectic whirlwind of day-to-day responsibilities and various professional commitments, I admit I have not been able to maintain my connections and relationships as well as I would have liked to.

Can you offer any insights or strategies as to the best way to reconnect with old contacts without coming across as self-serving or opportunistic?

With your stellar record of maintaining long-standing professional relationships and your knack for effective networking, I couldn’t help but wonder what your secret formula might be. As I find myself now trying to revive these old contacts and forge new ones in my job search journey, I believe your guidance would be invaluable.

Thank you in advance for your time and consideration.

Thanks,

Linus

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Hi Linus,

Firstly, I want to commend you on recognizing the importance of utilizing your network during a job search. It’s clear that you understand the delicate nature of reviving professional connections in a respectful and genuine manner.

Reaching out to contacts regarding a job search – either those that have been well nurtured or those perhaps with whom you haven’t had frequent contact can be tricky. Personally, I would suggest to never lead with “I am looking for a job and hope that you can help….” except for only the closest (and well nurtured) of relationships that you have developed.

For one most folks will generally clam up initially in not thinking that they can help you find a job. Even the most well intentioned folks would not want to overcommit or disappoint and you might only get a response similar to “I’ll keep my eyes open and let you know if I hear anything.”

Rather – I would focus the reach-out on reconnecting and address the fact that you haven’t been in touch for a while. A simple, honest explanation like, “I realize it’s been some time since we last connected, and I regret not staying in touch more consistently,” shows that you’re aware of the gap while still hoping to re-engage.

As you approach these contacts, remember to be patient and understanding if they don’t get to you right away (or at all). But I would expect the majority of folks (assuming that there was a valued relationship at some point) will be happy to reconnect. And when you do make sure to approach the discussion with a genuine interest in how they have been and what they have been up to as this demonstrates you care about them as individuals.

And yes – the topic of your job search will naturally come up and let it.

Assuming you spend 80% of the time catching up and asking them questions on what has transpired personally and professionally since you last connected, I am confident that they will be endeared to assist in whatever way possible.

Finally, remember that networking is about building and maintaining meaningful relationships. Keep the focus on building a genuine connection rather than solely on your job search. These efforts will pay off in the long run as you strengthen your network and potentially uncover new opportunities through your renewed connections.

Best of luck in your search. I’m rooting for you!

Mike

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TNCR Community – what advice would you add to this thread? Do you have a perspective that you can share? Have a career question for Mike? Email him directly at mike.burgett@burgateglobal.com