You might text, “Hey Sarah, this is Lucy from law school. Not sure if you still have my number. I was thinking about you the other day and wondered what you were up to. I’d love to reconnect!” If you never texted the person before, an email might work better. [2] X Trustworthy Source Harvard Business Review Online and print journal covering topics related to business management practices Go to source Social media is another low-key way to reconnect if texting or calling out of the blue just doesn’t feel right.
“OMG I just saw your anniversary pictures! I can’t believe you’ve already been married for 5 years—it seems like the wedding was just yesterday!” “I can’t believe you went to Paris. Your photos are amazing! I’d love to hear more about your trip. "
You might say, “Hey, I saw it was your birthday. Hope you’ve had a wonderful day. Look, I know we haven’t talked in a while, but I’d love to catch up!” Other holidays work for this as well. For example: “Happy New Year, my friend! My resolution is to not let another year go by without hanging out with you. "
“I’ve been so busy the past few months I can barely keep my head above water. But I did see the video you sent me—so funny! How have you been?” “I saw your message but I got sidetracked and forgot about it. Things have been wild. Care to catch up?”
“Gosh, I just realized it’s been 5 years since we last spoke. Time flies! What have you been up to?” “Long time, no see! Can you believe it’s been 3 years? It would be so great to chat again. "
“I’m sorry I did such a bad job of keeping in touch after the wedding!” “I’m sorry I didn’t reach out to you sooner. I felt weird after you moved away. " “I feel so awful I haven’t texted or called you more. I miss you so much!”
“Hi Sarah, it’s Jane from law school. I know we haven’t talked since graduation, but I’m getting ready to move to Chicago. Do you still live there? I’m looking for recommendations on neighborhoods to live in. " “Austin! This is Mark—we met at DragonCon last year. Do you still work with Fantasy Films? I have a friend who just applied there and is looking for some tips. "
“I was in a bar and someone put that Journey song on the jukebox. Of course, I instantly thought of you. How’ve you been?” “My partner and I were playing Ticket to Ride last night and I remembered how much fun we had playing it in grad school. What’ve you been up to?”
“Oh man, remember when we went to the state fair that one year? I will never forget your face covered in powdered sugar from that funnel cake. " Wow, remember when we saw that band with that awesome electric violinist? Did you know he’s still performing?”
You could also post the photo or video on social media and tag them, but you’re much more likely to get their attention if you send it to them directly. Plus, it’s more private and personal that way.
“Last time we talked you had just graduated law school. Did you take the bar exam? What are you doing now?” “I heard you recently got engaged. Tell me more about your partner—it’s so wonderful to see you so happy!”
“Would you be interested in a video chat? I realize it’s been forever, so if you’re not down, I totally understand. I hope you’re doing well. " “Listen, would you want to grab a cup of coffee tomorrow? I’m sure you’re super busy. If this isn’t a good time for you, I get it. "
If the person is open to reconnecting with you, make an effort to get to know them as the person they are now, rather than constantly reminiscing about the people the two of you were back when you were close. It’s possible the person won’t ever respond to you, or that they’ll have no desire to reconnect with you. That can be hard to deal with, but remember that they’re a different person now.
