What do you do if you want to maintain your professional network as a retired management consultant?

1 Update your profile

The first step to maintaining your network is to update your online profile on platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, or your personal website. Let your contacts know that you're retired, but also highlight your achievements, skills, and interests. You can also share your availability and willingness to offer advice, mentorship, or referrals to anyone who might need them. Updating your profile will help you communicate your current status and value to your network, as well as attract new opportunities and connections.

2 Reach out regularly

The second step to maintaining your network is to reach out to your contacts regularly, but not too frequently. You can use various channels, such as email, phone, video call, or social media, to check in, congratulate, or thank your contacts for their support or collaboration. You can also share relevant insights, articles, or resources that might interest them, or ask for their feedback or opinion on a topic. Reaching out regularly will help you stay in touch, show interest, and build rapport with your network, as well as learn from their experiences and perspectives.

3 Join or create groups

The third step to maintaining your network is to join or create groups that align with your goals, interests, or passions. You can find groups on platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, or Meetup, or you can start your own group based on a niche topic, theme, or challenge. You can also join or create groups that are specific to retired management consultants, such as alumni associations, industry associations, or peer support groups. Joining or creating groups will help you expand your network, exchange ideas, and stay updated on the latest trends and developments in your field.

4 Volunteer your time or skills

The fourth step to maintaining your network is to volunteer your time or skills to causes or organizations that matter to you. You can offer your expertise, knowledge, or experience to help others solve problems, improve performance, or achieve goals. You can also volunteer your time to support social or environmental causes, such as mentoring young professionals, teaching a course, or joining a board. Volunteering your time or skills will help you contribute to society, showcase your value, and build trust and credibility with your network.

5 Attend or host events

The fifth step to maintaining your network is to attend or host events that are relevant, engaging, or fun. You can attend events that are organized by your groups, associations, or contacts, such as webinars, workshops, or networking sessions. You can also host your own events, such as coffee chats, book clubs, or mastermind groups, and invite your contacts or potential contacts to join. Attending or hosting events will help you meet new people, deepen existing relationships, and share your insights and stories with your network.

6 Be generous and grateful

The sixth and final step to maintaining your network is to be generous and grateful. You can be generous by offering your help, advice, or referrals to your contacts when they need them, or by endorsing, recommending, or praising them for their work or achievements. You can also be grateful by expressing your appreciation, recognition, or gratitude to your contacts for their support, guidance, or friendship. Being generous and grateful will help you create positive impressions, foster mutual respect, and strengthen your bonds with your network.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?