When you leave a job, internship or volunteer opportunity, the idea of staying in
touch with your old supervisor or some of your colleagues might seem odd. Reasons
for you leaving might even be complex. However, a little effort to maintain contact
can go a long way when it comes to the success of your career. Here's why and how.
Why You Should Maintain Contact With Previous Supervisors and Colleagues
Now that you have left the organization, your previous supervisor and colleagues can
share more openly about your work habits and what skills they considered your strengths
and what skills you may want to focus more time developing as you progress in your
career.
Because they are no longer connected with your new work, a prior supervisor or colleague
can be a great sounding board when you are faced with a challenge or issue at work.
They understand the profession and what you are capable of doing. Just make sure that
you are still adhering to your new company's confidentiality policy before disclosing
any information. Sometimes people you have worked with in the past can serve as great
mentors.
Whether you have left an internship, volunteer role or paid part-time or full-time
job, unless you are near retirement, you always want to maintain your professional
network. People in your professional network who you might want to include are your
previous supervisors and colleagues. They can open doors to future job opportunities
or can expand your network by introducing you to others within their professional
network.
When you apply for a job and sometimes for awards and scholarships, you will need
professional references. Being able to list a former supervisor is ideal. It will
be much easier for a previous supervisor to provide a reference for you, if you remain
in contact. Plus, how awkward would it be to ask for a reference if you haven't connected
in several years.
How to Remain in Contact with Previous Supervisors and Colleagues
Follow their professional careers on a social media platform like LinkedIn
Email them a professional update. Let them know where you are at in your career
Schedule a time to visit their office and catchup.
Set up a standing coffee or work lunch outing
Send a holiday or greeting card
If your contact info has changed, send an update.
When you come across professional and relevant articles about your career industry,
send an email with a quick note saying, "thought this may be of interest."
