Staying in Touch with Former Co-Workers: Grow Your Network Without Losing Old Contacts

We often think of networking in terms of meeting new people and prospects. Professional networking groups tend to focus on creating new connections and building bridges between businesses, individuals and professions where none existed. But, keeping in touch with former co-workers, bosses and clients is just as important (if not more so) as making new connections and building networking circles.

The old adage, "out of sight, out of mind" can very well apply to former business and professional relationships. But it doesn't have to be that way. Here are some suggestions for keeping relationships alive and established networks in tact:

Start by making sure you acquire and keep contact information for co-workers and colleagues prior to leaving a job or company. You may think that the phone number and individuals you've worked with are burned into your memory, but you'd be surprised how quickly things can be forgotten. You may choose to keep an old fashioned rolodex or keep information in your email program in the address book or contact section (just make sure you take it with you when you leave a job or situation)-but keep track of people and keep things up to date so your connections remain in tact.

Look for ways to include past co-workers and colleagues in current events-open houses, meet & greets, conferences, and workshops are all great excuses to touch base with former co-workers. Sending along information that is professionally pertinent (including articles, periodicals, websites, etc.) can also keep the lines of communication open. The goal is to maintain and grow a sphere of influence, so keeping people "in the loop" from your many past lives is key.