Keeping the Signal Strong

How often do you check in with your professional network? It’s easy to hyperfocus on reaching out only when you face a challenge or need a solution, but that approach can feel transactional and one-sided. Networking thrives on relationships that are consistently nurtured connections that stay active, not just activated when it’s convenient.

At one point, you either reached out to someone or accepted their request because there was a reason—shared interests, mutual goals, or an opportunity to learn from one another. Over time, it’s natural for those connections to fade into the background, especially as new priorities emerge. But here’s the beauty of networking: it doesn’t have to be perfect to be effective. A quick message or a simple, “Hey, it’s been a while—how are things going?” can go a long way in re-establishing a relationship. Even reaching out to someone you haven’t spoken to in years—or someone you don’t fully remember—can uncover surprising opportunities or bring back the “why” that connected you in the first place.

Share an article that sparked your interest, congratulate them on a recent success, or ask about their current projects. These small, thoughtful gestures keep the lines open and the communication fresh. Reconnecting doesn’t require an agenda; it’s about showing up with genuine curiosity and respect.

Networking, at its core, is about keeping the wires uncrossed and the signals strong. By engaging periodically and authentically, you build a network that feels less like a list of names and more like a living, thriving community. A little effort today—whether it’s reconnecting with an old contact or sending a message to someone unexpected—can turn into collaboration, growth, or meaningful support tomorrow.

So, take a moment to scan your connections. Who haven’t you spoken to in a while? Who do you miss hearing from? Send that message. You may just reignite a spark you didn’t know was waiting.