Send 3 Reconnection Messages
Reaching out to people you have not spoken to in a while can feel awkward, especially after a career break. But most people are genuinely pleased to hear from a former colleague and are happy to help where they can. The key is to reconnect genuinely without leading with an ask.
Reaching out to people you have not spoken to in a while can feel awkward, especially after a career break. But most people are genuinely pleased to hear from a former colleague and are happy to help where they can. The key is to reconnect genuinely without leading with an ask.
Step by Step
Choose 3 Tier 1 contacts from your list Start with the people you had the strongest relationships with before your break.
Write a genuine reconnection message Keep it warm, brief, and natural. Do not open with a request. Just reconnect.
Template: "Hi [Name], I hope you are doing well. I have been thinking about our time working together at [Company] and wanted to reach out. I have been taking some time away from my career over the past [time period] but am now getting ready to return to [field] and you came to mind as someone I always respected and whose perspective I valued. I would love to catch up and hear what you have been up to. Would you be open to a quick virtual coffee sometime in the next few weeks?"
Be honest about where you are You do not need to go into detail about why you were away but being clear that you are returning to work gives the person context without making the whole message about your job search.
Log each outreach and set a follow-up reminder for 10 days
Tips for success
People who remember you positively from before your break are often eager to help you get back on your feet professionally. Do not hesitate to reach out.
If you feel nervous about reaching out start with the person you feel most comfortable with. One good reconnection conversation can give you the confidence to reach out to everyone else on your list.