Reopening a contact after three quiet years
How to write a reintroduction that respects German professional norms without pretending you stayed in touch.
Many mid-career searches stall on a simple problem: the people who could help have not heard from you in years. Silence does not forbid a message; awkward, over-familiar language does.
Acknowledge the gap plainly
A single honest line beats a pretend “hope you are well after our many chats.” Name the last real connection — a conference, a shared project, a mutual colleague — and move on.
Offer a reason that is not a job ask
Ask for a short perspective on a sector change, a city market, or a team structure. The goal of the first reply is a conversation, not an opening.
Keep length under control
Four to six short sentences usually suffice. Attachments on first contact rarely help. If they offer time, come prepared with two precise questions.
Accept that some doors stay shut
No reply is information. Move to the next prioritised contact rather than sending a second nudge within days.