Whether you’re looking for work or happily employed, you should continue to cultivate a strong network.

There are lots of good reasons to strengthen your network. In the self-serving category, your former coworkers and classmates might help you some day, to find a new job, a new client, or a new employee.

If you’re feeling more charitable, look at your network as a source of opportunities to help others who need jobs, clients, or employees of their own. That’s a worthwhile goal even if it doesn’t benefit you directly.

You’ll want to set aside some time to build your network, but don’t treat it like a job. Networking is not a mechanistic exercise. It’s not about SEO or lead generation. You’re reconnecting with real people who have real feelings and real needs. Be kind.

It’s Been a While

I’m not a big fan of in-person networking events. I do enjoy meeting people at conferences, though. If you’re shy, start with people you already know, or people you used to know, and take advantage of online venues.

Even so, you may feel awkward about reviving a connection with people you haven’t seen since the late 20th century. That’s totally normal.

There’s no need to get super-personal or act like a creepy stalker, either. Invite your old pals to connect with you on social media. LinkedIn is a great choice.

When reaching out for the first time in decades, it’s best to keep the tone light and friendly:

“Hey Joe, I read this article [insert link] and I thought of you. I remembered that we [worked, took a class, watched a movie, e.g.] together on a similar topic. Let’s connect on LinkedIn and restart that conversation.”

Then see what happens. Not everyone will respond, but some will. People like to be remembered. If you had a decent rapport and you’re a reasonably nice person, others will be happy to hear from you.

Keep an Open Mind

Start by establishing a dialogue. Don’t ask for favors. Maybe you’ll be the one who provides much-needed support.

You might know a bit about your contacts’ career paths, but there’s a lot of context that’s not revealed in LinkedIn profiles. Maybe your old-new friends will have changed. Maybe your memories are different from theirs.

Stay in Touch

Be open and receptive to the people who enter your life. Stay in touch. If you’ve drifted apart, you can also drift back together.

If you know me from previous jobs, schools, or community organizations, and you’d like to get back in touch, please don’t hesitate to reach out. If we haven't met, go ahead and introduce yourself.

Let me know if I can help you — or just drop me a line to say hi. Networking starts with you and me.