Back to BlogShould I Keep in Touch with My Former Employer?
Yes! Only good things can come from keeping in touch with old managers and colleagues. When leaving a company or employer, it’s always best to end things on good terms – you never know how they might be able to help your career in the future.
In this blog, we look at the benefits of staying in touch with your former employer and provide a few helpful tips on how to keep in contact with them.
Why should I stay in contact with my old boss?
References
Lots of companies will ask for professional references from previous employers during the hiring process. Staying on good terms with your old bosses will, at the very least, make this process a lot smoother.
You’re also far more likely to receive an enthusiastic review if you’ve made the effort to stay in touch with a referee, which could be a deciding factor in you securing the role.
Future opportunities
If you find yourself on the job market again in the future, being in touch with your previous employer could come in very handy. Perhaps there’s an opportunity for you to return to your former place of work, or maybe your old boss can provide you with a few contacts from their own professional network.
Career guidance
Your previous employer could be a brilliant source of knowledge and guidance for you throughout the rest of your career if you manage to maintain contact with them. After all, they (hopefully) already know you and understand your strengths and weaknesses, as well as your career goals. Reaching out for advice or insight could be incredibly helpful.
How to keep in touch with your former employer
Social media
Follow each other on social media platforms such as Facebook and LinkedIn, and keep your ex-boss in the loop by sharing your personal and professional wins.
Just make sure your former employer is comfortable with connecting in this way. It’s a good idea to ask about this before leaving a company.
Sending a quick email to a previous employer to check in and express an interest in their personal and/or professional life is a great way to stay in touch. Then, the next time you need a reference or contact, your email won’t appear so out of the blue and self-serving.
Holiday cards
Sending cards on birthdays, Christmas, etc. is a simple but effective way to catch up with previous bosses and colleagues a few times a year. The effort that goes into physically writing and sending a card will certainly be appreciated.
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