How to Reconnect with Old Contacts During a Job Search

How to Reconnect with Old Contacts During a Job Search How to Reconnect with Old Contacts During a Job Search 2 We can all relate to wanting to rekindle relationships when you truly need to grow and find a new job. But how do you reconnect without making the other person feel awkward, or worse, like youre just using them? Here are three  ways you can put yourself out there and reconnect with old contacts: 1. Get social on social media. You dont need to become a social media expert to use LinkedIn or Facebook. These two platforms do most of the work for you. Both will help you reconnect with people of your past. Like magic, these two platforms will suggest people you probably know and give you the option to connect with them. But before you start sending requests to connect, you need an updated profile. Be sure you have a picture of yourself uploaded. Next, write a little bit about yourself. When your old friend goes to check out your profile, theyll remember who you are and get an idea of what youre up to. Most people approach online interactions  by focusing on what they can get out of it for themselves. If youre using LinkedIn, be sure to list your strengths and accomplishments to position yourself as an asset. 2. Attend networking events. Getting out from behind your computer will take courage but the reward is often worth it. In-person networking is extremely valuable because it gives you the chance to connect on a more personal level. Look up when the next alumni event is taking place in your city. (You may bump into an old classmate!) Check out any industry events in your area. (You may run into old colleagues!) Before you attend these events, be prepared to answer the question, So what have you been up to? If people havent seen you in a while they are going to be curious. When filling in the gap be sure to keep it short and simple. Then leave them a bit curious so that when you follow up you have more to talk about. 3. Reach out  the old-fashioned way. Theres always the straightforward approach: reaching out directly. If you still have your old contacts email address or phone number, get in touch. But the worst thing you can do is immediately ask for their help in your job search or career. That will send the wrong message and can be extremely off-putting. To avoid making things feel awkward, find a  reason to reach out. Maybe you heard your old pal recently got married. Reach out to say congratulations.  Perhaps you  saw on LinkedIn that your former boss switched jobs. Send her a note with your well wishes, and to ask how things are going. Once a few weeks or months go by,  you can start exploring ways in which you might be able to help one another out professionally. Job searching? Check out the top companies for part-time telecommuting jobs.