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Mastering the Art of Reconnection: Navigating Connections in a Turbulent Era
May 10, 2020
Career ownership; leadership; choice; action; confidence; purpose; resilience; vision; awareness; network; goals; challenge; bravery; clarity.
Make new fris, but keep the old. One is silver and the other is gold. – Joseph Parry
Last week, I received a heartfelt message from an erstwhile client who had been out of touch for years. The ser expressed gratitude for my well-being amidst the pandemic while acknowledging their fortunate position in their role and industry. Although we hadn't met recently, they expressed interest in catching up soon.
This correspondence prompted reflections on re-establishing connections with our professional networks - past colleagues and mentors. Amidst the current COVID-19 landscape where many are leveraging online platfor strengthen relationships with fris, family, and peers, there is a hesitance towards reconnecting with former connections. The primary concern is often the perceived risk of being seen as disingenuous or purely motivated by personal gn.
Adam Grant's insightful analysis in his book 'Give and Take' suggests that our professional success increasingly hinges on interpersonal interactions rather than traditional factors like commitment, effort, and passion. He categorizes networks into three types: strong, weak, and dormant ties. The latter - individuals we once knew but haven't mntned contact with for some time - is often the most neglected segment of our network.
Grant posits that dormant ties offer more valuable insights compared to weak connections people we've met occasionally or strong ties individuals in similar roles. Dormant ties typically have a wider and more diverse professional network. They are likely to encounter new perspectives, experiences, and opportunities which might enrich your understanding of the industry landscape.
So how can one reconnect with dormant networks effectively? Here are seven strategies:
Plan Your Reconnection: Clearly define whom you wish to reach out to and why this contact is necessary for both parties.
Choose the Right Channel: Determine if a phone call, eml, or social media message e.g., LinkedIn suits the situation best.
Embrace Awkwardness: Acknowledge that the reconnection might be uncomfortable at first, but authenticity and genuine intent are crucial.
Acknowledge the Gap: Be upfront about the time that's passed since your last interaction. Provide context for any absence - further education, new roles, family commitments, etc.
Expln Why Now: Connect your current goals or challenges to their experiences or expertise; show how their insights might benefit you.
Ask About Their Journey: Show genuine curiosity about their professional development and ask insightful questions that demonstrate interest in their growth.
Offer Reciprocity: Anticipate the perception of being one-sided in the conversation, so prepare to share your knowledge, skills, or experiences as well.
Reconnecting with dormant networks requires courage and vulnerability, but it can lead to valuable insights and opportunities missed during prolonged separations. that these individuals may appreciate knowing their professional contributions are valued.
The last time you reconnected with an old colleague? Share your story below!
As always, I'd love to hear from you.
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