In today's fast-paced world, staying connected with people can sometimes feel like a challenge. Whether it's a former colleague, a distant friend, or a potential client you haven't spoken to in a while, the desire to re-establish contact is common. Learning how to write a reconnecting email effectively is a valuable skill. This guide will walk you through the essentials of crafting a message that not only gets read but also inspires a positive response.
The Core Principles of a Reconnecting Email
When you're figuring out how to write a reconnecting email, the first thing to remember is that your goal is to be genuine and respectful of the recipient's time. You want to jog their memory without being intrusive and clearly state your purpose for reaching out. The importance of making a good first impression with your reconnecting email cannot be overstated, as it can pave the way for future opportunities or strengthen existing relationships.
- Keep it concise: People are busy, so get straight to the point.
- Be specific: Remind them of your connection and how you know each other.
- Offer value: Think about what you can offer or what common ground you share.
Here's a breakdown of what to include:
- A clear and friendly subject line.
- A warm opening that acknowledges the time gap.
- A reminder of your past connection.
- The reason for your current outreach.
- A clear call to action.
- A polite closing.
Consider this table for structuring your thoughts:
| Section | Purpose | Key Elements |
|---|---|---|
| Subject Line | Grab attention, indicate purpose | Your name, brief reminder of connection |
| Opening | Set a friendly tone | Greeting, acknowledge time lapse |
| Body | Remind, state purpose, offer value | Specific memory, reason for contact, potential benefit |
| Call to Action | Guide next steps | Suggest a brief chat, offer information |
How to Write a Reconnecting Email to a Former Colleague After a Long Gap
Subject: Checking In - [Your Name]
Hi [Colleague's Name],
Hope you're doing well! It feels like ages since we last worked together at [Previous Company Name]. I was recently thinking about our time on the [Project Name] project and how much I enjoyed collaborating with you on [Specific Task].
I'm reaching out because I've recently moved into [Your New Role/Industry] and wanted to reconnect with some of the talented people I used to work with. I’ve been following your career path on LinkedIn and it looks like you’re doing great things at [Their Current Company].
Would you be open to a quick virtual coffee sometime in the next few weeks? I'd love to catch up and hear what you've been up to. No pressure at all if you're swamped!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
How to Write a Reconnecting Email to a Networking Contact
Subject: Reconnecting: [Your Name] - Met at [Event Name]
Dear [Contact's Name],
I hope this email finds you well. We met at [Event Name] back in [Month/Year], and I really enjoyed our conversation about [Topic of Conversation].
I'm reaching out because I've been working on [Your Current Project/Interest] and your insights on [Related Topic] at the event were particularly helpful. I recently saw [Company Name]'s work in [Specific Area] and it reminded me of our chat.
I was wondering if you might be open to a brief chat sometime soon. I'd love to share a quick update on my work and perhaps hear your thoughts on [Specific Question].
Thank you for your time,
[Your Name]
How to Write a Reconnecting Email to a Friend You Haven't Spoken to in a While
Subject: Thinking of you! [Your Name]
Hey [Friend's Name],
How are things going? I know it's been a while, but I was thinking about you the other day and wanted to reach out and see how you're doing.
I remember that time we [Shared Memory] and it still makes me laugh! I've been busy with [Brief Update on Your Life] and would love to hear what's new with you. Are you still living in [City/Area]? Doing anything exciting lately?
Let me know if you're free to grab a coffee or a drink sometime soon. It would be great to catch up properly!
Warmly,
[Your Name]
How to Write a Reconnecting Email to a Past Client
Subject: Checking in - [Your Name] from [Your Company Name]
Dear [Client's Name],
I hope this email finds you well. It’s [Your Name] from [Your Company Name], and we worked together on [Project/Service] back in [Year]. I hope you've been doing well since then.
I'm reaching out today because we've recently launched [New Product/Service] that I believe could be of great value to [Their Company/Their Needs], especially given your goals with [Previous Project].
Would you be available for a brief call next week to discuss how we might be able to support your continued success in [Their Industry]? I'm happy to work around your schedule.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
How to Write a Reconnecting Email to a Mentor
Subject: Quick update & seeking advice - [Your Name]
Dear [Mentor's Name],
I hope you're doing wonderfully. It's [Your Name], and I was your mentee during [Time Period/Program] at [Organization]. I truly valued your guidance and wisdom during that time.
I wanted to share a quick update on my journey: I've recently [Major Career Accomplishment/Change]. As I navigate this new phase, I find myself recalling some of the advice you shared about [Specific Topic].
If you have a moment in the coming weeks, I'd be incredibly grateful for a brief chat. I'd love to briefly pick your brain about [Specific Question or Challenge].
Thank you for your continued inspiration,
[Your Name]
How to Write a Reconnecting Email to a Potential Business Partner
Subject: Exploring Synergies - [Your Name] ([Your Company]) & [Their Company]
Dear [Contact's Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I'm [Your Name], the [Your Title] at [Your Company Name]. We specialize in [Your Company's Specialty]. I've been following [Their Company Name]'s impressive work in [Their Company's Specialty] for some time, particularly your recent achievements in [Specific Achievement].
I believe there's a strong potential for synergy between our organizations, especially in the area of [Potential Area of Collaboration]. We've seen great success in [Your Company's Relevant Success] and I think a partnership could mutually benefit both our companies.
Would you be open to a brief introductory call to explore potential collaborative opportunities? I'm available on [Suggest a couple of days/times].
Looking forward to the possibility of connecting,
[Your Name]
How to Write a Reconnecting Email to a Former Professor
Subject: Following Up - [Your Name] - [Course Name] ([Year])
Dear Professor [Professor's Last Name],
I hope you're having a good semester. My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] class in [Semester/Year]. I thoroughly enjoyed your lectures on [Specific Topic] and found them incredibly insightful.
I'm writing to you today as I'm currently pursuing [Your Current Academic/Professional Path] and your teachings on [Relevant Topic] have been particularly influential. I recently encountered [Specific Situation/Problem] and was reminded of your perspective on [Related Concept].
If you have a few minutes, I would be very grateful for a brief chat about [Specific Question]. I'm happy to adapt to your availability.
Thank you for your time and continued impact,
[Your Name]
How to Write a Reconnecting Email to an Influencer or Thought Leader
Subject: Quick Thought - Inspired by your work on [Topic] - [Your Name]
Dear [Influencer's Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I'm a long-time admirer of your work, particularly your insights on [Specific Topic/Area they are known for]. I've been following your [Blog/Podcast/Social Media] for [Duration] and have learned so much from your contributions.
Your recent post/episode/article on [Specific Piece of Content] really resonated with me, especially the point about [Specific Point]. It inspired me to [Action you took or thought you had].
I understand you receive many messages, but I wanted to share my appreciation and briefly mention that I’m also working in [Your Related Field/Industry]. Perhaps in the future, there might be an opportunity to connect or collaborate on something related to [Shared Interest].
Thank you for sharing your expertise with the world,
[Your Name]
In conclusion, mastering how to write a reconnecting email is about more than just sending a message; it's about thoughtfully rebuilding bridges and nurturing relationships. By focusing on clarity, authenticity, and respect, you can ensure your reconnecting emails are well-received and open the door to valuable future interactions.