Last updated on Jul 7, 2024

Here's how you can sustain your professional network as a retired consulting professional.

Retiring from a career in consulting doesn't mean you have to step away from the professional relationships you've built over the years. In fact, sustaining your network post-retirement can be incredibly rewarding, both personally and professionally. Whether you're seeking to stay up-to-date with industry trends, aiming to mentor the next generation of consultants, or simply want to keep in touch with former colleagues, there are strategies that can help you maintain those connections without the day-to-day demands of a full-time job.

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1 Stay Active

Even in retirement, it's important to remain active within your professional community. Participate in industry events, whether they are webinars, conferences, or casual meet-ups. These gatherings are excellent opportunities to reconnect with former colleagues and meet new professionals. Your wealth of experience is invaluable, and attending these events not only keeps you informed about the latest industry trends but also allows you to share your insights and wisdom with others.

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Hariharan Srinivasan

Business IRM Advisor @ Shell | CISA,CISM,CDPSE
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Stay Active in Professional Associations: Continue participating in industry-related associations or groups. Attend their events, conferences, and webinars to stay updated and connected.

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2 Leverage Tech

Embrace technology to keep in touch. Social media platforms, particularly professional ones like LinkedIn, are great tools for staying connected with your network. You can share articles, contribute to discussions, and congratulate contacts on their achievements or career milestones. Additionally, consider writing a blog or contributing to industry publications to share your expertise and maintain visibility in your field.

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3 Offer Mentorship

Offering mentorship is a fulfilling way to give back to the consulting community. By guiding younger consultants, you not only help them navigate their careers but also stay engaged with the industry's evolution. Mentorship can take many forms, from informal coffee meetings to more structured roles within professional organizations or alumni networks.

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Hariharan Srinivasan

Business IRM Advisor @ Shell | CISA,CISM,CDPSE
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Mentorship and Consulting: Offer to mentor younger professionals or provide occasional consulting services. This keeps you engaged and relevant in your field.

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4 Rekindle Ties

Make a conscious effort to rekindle ties with former clients and colleagues. Reach out through personalized messages or emails to catch up or suggest a meeting. This personal approach shows that you value the relationship beyond the professional realm and can lead to meaningful conversations and renewed connections.

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5 Volunteer Wisely

Consider volunteering your consulting skills to non-profits or community organizations. This not only allows you to keep your consulting acumen sharp but also expands your network in new directions. Volunteering is a powerful way to meet like-minded professionals who share your passion for giving back, leading to new friendships and opportunities.

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6 Nurture Bonds

Lastly, nurturing your existing bonds is crucial. Make sure to celebrate milestones, support your contacts during transitions, and offer help when needed. These gestures build goodwill and ensure that your relationships remain strong. Remember, a network is not just about what you can get from it; it's also about what you contribute.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Here's how you can sustain your professional network as a retired consulting professional.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Stay Active

2 Leverage Tech

3 Offer Mentorship

4 Rekindle Ties

5 Volunteer Wisely

6 Nurture Bonds

7 Here’s what else to consider

Consulting

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Here's how you can sustain your professional network as a retired consulting professional.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Stay Active

2 Leverage Tech

3 Offer Mentorship

4 Rekindle Ties

5 Volunteer Wisely

6 Nurture Bonds

7 Here’s what else to consider

Consulting

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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