By: Shawn Mars
Reconnecting with old contacts can be a practical way to strengthen professional and personal networks. These relationships, even if dormant, often carry shared history and trust that can be reactivated with thoughtful communication. Experts note that such reconnections can lead to opportunities, insights, and mutual support without requiring constant interaction over the years.
Why Old Connections Matter
Old contacts often represent relationships built on shared experiences, whether through work, education, or community activities. According to the Journal of Accountancy, “Old connections can play a critical role, whether someone is looking to reenter the workforce, advance their career, or enter a new field”.
These contacts may already understand a person’s skills, values, and work style, which can make collaboration or referrals more natural. Even if years have passed, the familiarity can reduce the barriers that exist when meeting someone new.
Overcoming the Hesitation to Reach Out
Many people hesitate to reconnect because they worry the other person may not remember them or may question the timing. Carol Fishman Cohen, CEO of iRelaunch, explains that “people are often afraid to get in touch with someone from the past because they’re worried that person won’t remember them… But really, what is there to lose? In most cases, people are delighted to reconnect”.
This reassurance suggests that the perceived awkwardness is often greater in the mind of the person initiating contact than in reality. A simple, genuine message can be enough to reopen the conversation.
Starting Points for Reconnection
Reconnecting does not require elaborate planning. The InHunt World network development guide suggests beginning with the most recent contacts first, as these relationships may still feel familiar. Reviewing attendee lists from past events, scrolling through a phone’s contact list, or revisiting stored business cards can help identify people worth reaching out to.
Digital platforms also make it easier to find and message old contacts. A short note referencing a shared experience, such as a project worked on together or a mutual acquaintance, can provide a natural opening.
Making the Interaction Comfortable
Experts recommend approaching reconnections without an immediate request or agenda. Michelle Tillis Lederman, author of The Connector’s Advantage, advises that “it’s not about collecting relationships… but rather about building mutually beneficial friendships with people you’re genuinely interested in knowing”.
This means the first interaction should focus on catching up, showing interest in the other person’s current activities, and sharing updates without pressure. A friendly tone and a willingness to listen can make the exchange more comfortable for both sides.
Practical Strategies for Maintaining Contact
Once a connection is reestablished, small, consistent gestures can help maintain it. The Journal of Accountancy notes that some professionals schedule time each week to reach out to a few people, including old colleagues or friends.
These gestures might include:
- Sending a brief message on a birthday or work anniversary.
- Sharing an article or resource relevant to the person’s interests.
- Commenting on their professional updates on social media.
Such actions keep the relationship active without requiring frequent or lengthy conversations.
The Role of Shared Interests and Memories
Shared experiences can be a strong foundation for reconnection. The CFA Institute’s networking advice points out that even a small gesture, such as “sharing a memory that pops up,” can reinvigorate a relationship.
This could be as simple as sending a photo from a past event or recalling a humorous moment from a shared project. These personal touches can make the interaction feel genuine and warm.
Benefits Beyond Career Opportunities
While professional advancement is a common reason to reconnect, the benefits extend further. Old contacts can provide emotional support, fresh perspectives, and introductions to new communities.
The InHunt World article highlights that “the more people you know, the more you can also suggest a potential client, future employee or employer, a mentor, a service provider, to whoever might need contacting that trustworthy person you happen to know”. This reciprocity strengthens the network for everyone involved.
Addressing Concerns About Timing
Some may wonder if too much time has passed to reconnect. Experts suggest that the length of time is less important than the sincerity of the outreach. Acknowledging the gap in communication and expressing genuine interest in the other person’s current life can help bridge the distance.
Even a single shared connection point—such as a mutual friend, a professional milestone, or a community event—can serve as a reason to reach out.
Building a Habit of Connection
Reconnection is most effective when it becomes a regular habit rather than a one-time effort. Scheduling periodic check-ins, even if brief, can prevent relationships from going dormant again.
Sara McCord, a communications consultant, advises starting networking “before you’re in a place of need”. This approach ensures that relationships are maintained for mutual benefit, not just during times of personal necessity.
A Sustainable Approach to Networking
Strengthening a network through old contacts is less about volume and more about quality. By focusing on genuine interest, mutual respect, and consistent but low-pressure communication, individuals can maintain relationships that are both supportive and enduring.
The process does not require grand gestures—small, thoughtful actions over time can keep connections alive and ready to provide value in unexpected ways.
