Have you lost touch with your network? Now’s the time to reconnect. And not by asking for a favor, “Hi Carl, I know it’s been 10 years since we last spoke, but…”

Instead, how might you be of value to this person? Know that value does not have to equal money. Here are some quick tips to get back in touch and provide value at the same time:

1. Send a congratulatory note. You’re reviewing your LinkedIn updates and saw your friend got a new gig. Your congratulatory note will likely result in a quick phone call or email back to you. You can then set up a quick meeting to reconnect.

2. Send a link. You just read a terrific blog post you know will benefit your network. Share it via social media (Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, etc.) or via email if it’s especially beneficial to a key member of your network.

3. Volunteer. If you’re not working, you’ve got a little time on your hands. Volunteering not only helps others, but also helps you make new connections and stay positive. And if you’re working a lot, which is the reason you haven’t had time to stay in touch with your network, volunteer for a cause that coincides with your work or business goals. Perhaps you can be the United Way ambassador or spearhead the American Cancer relay for your company. You’ll meet new people this way and also build bridges inside your own organization.

4. Serve on a board. Boards need great people with expertise and ideas. Sound like you? What nonprofit board can you serve on? Boards can be a great way to connect with community leaders, while doing something positive for a cause you believe in.

5. Check out your local Chamber of Commerce. What can you do for them? One of my clients (who had an MBA in Information Systems) volunteered to revamp her chamber’s website. This led to meeting top guns from local businesses who were chamber members. One of those businesses hired her.

Motivational speaker Zig Ziglar once said, “If you help enough people get what they want, you’ll get what you want.” This makes networking much easier because you’re not asking for a job, you’re helping your friends.

Next step, stay connected by touching base regularly. This helps you fuel your network to fire it up. Your network will be there for you when you need it, because you never lost touch. Good luck!

© 2011 – 2017 ● Wendy Terwelp ● All rights reserved.