10 Innovative Texting Strategies to Rekindle Old Connections

Discovering forgotten contacts in your phone can be a revelation. Just like me, you might stumble upon a trove of individuals you've lost touch with over time.

Time flies, and so does our connection with people. But it's never too late to pick up where you left off, especially in a world where a simple SMS can reignite old flames of friendship and professional camaraderie.

Why SMS, you ask? It’s direct, non-invasive, and almost always guarantees that your message lands in the right hands—unless, of course, you've been blocked (but let's stay optimistic).

As I scrolled through my contact list, I realized that the art of the text could be distilled into four main categories:

1. The Casual "Hi" Message

How do you just say "Hi" without being awkward? Maybe an ice-breaker like:

• "Hey! Just stumbled upon your number and realized it's been ages. How have you been?"

2. The Curious "What's New?"

Engage their curiosity and share a slice of your life with these prompts:

• "Whoa! It feels like yesterday since we last spoke. I'm knee-deep in a project. What's new with you?"

3. The Forward "We Should Meet Up"

Propose a catch-up with these friendly nudges:

• “It's been too long! Should we remedy that with a coffee catch-up next week?”

4. The Direct "Let's Talk"

Cut to the chase and suggest a real conversation:

• “Your LinkedIn post was inspiring. Let’s have a call and discuss your insights!”

From this framework, other messages started to take shape, tailored to the recipient and intention behind the reconnection. Here's a sneak peak at a few more....

5. “Hey! Sorry for not getting back to you sooner. I’m finalising a membership program for my business ?and it’s kept me quite busy. Tbh I haven’t spoken to anyone in a while! Would this week be a good time for us to talk?"

6. "Whoa! What's up?!" It feels like yesterday. It’s Gordon btw and I'm OK. How are you?"

7. “I’ve been meaning to reach out for a while. How are you doing?”

8. "Your LinkedIn post was excellent. Congratulations on your new position. In the next two weeks, are you available for coffee or lunch?

9. “It’s been a long time since we caught up. How have you been? How is the family?”

10. "Hello it’s me…no not Adele…Gordon…sorry it’s been so long would be great to catch up if you can make it."

11. "I could say the Aliens captured me and held me hostage until I gave them all my bitcoin…but you know I don’t do Bitcoin. Sorry it’s been so long. Would be great to catch up."

What's your favourite way to reconnect with an old contact? Drop your strategies or stories below!

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Don't forget: if you reach out, be patient for a reply. The key lies in authenticity, not immediate responses.

Now, it's your turn: Grab your phone, choose a letter, and text ten people you haven't spoken to in 3 months. They're in your contacts for a reason, after all.

#Networking #SMSReconnection #ProfessionalGrowth

How many of you are going to try these out? Let's start a challenge! Comment 'Challenge Accepted' and share your experience next week!