I've been doing some analysis recently on different types of networks and their value as sources of clients (more on that in an upcoming email).

But one thing I did as part of the process that kind of shocked me was to look back at my own networks. Particularly the close contacts I have in business.

Back when I was primarily doing big consulting projects rather than online training I had half a dozen or so very senior contacts in client organisations who I would say I was close to. People I could pick the phone up to any time and ask a favour of (and they'd do the same to me).

Not surprisingly, they were a really strong source of client work for me over the years. Sometimes directly. Sometimes through referrals.

When I think of them now I realise they've all got one thing in common:

I haven't been in touch with them for years.

I've got lots of excuses. I'm really busy. I don't do big consulting projects any more. Blah blah.

The truth is these were friends at the time and I just let them drop off my radar.

Not only is that bad for business, it's bad friendship.

Easy to fall into of course. Especially if you're a bit introverted like me. But not a good habit.

My goal is to reconnect with these folks – primarily just as a friend. But no doubt it will be good for business too.

Have you let the same thing happen to some of your best contacts? People who could give you or refer you business but you haven't worked with for a while so they're slowly drifting out of your attention.

It's worth taking a good look at some of your best older contacts from a few years ago and doing a sanity check to see if you're unthinkingly letting your relationship with them die.

Now might be a good time to give it a boost.