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Tips for keeping your network alive You don't want to discover that your network of contacts is woefully outdated when you're unemployed. THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

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Instead, you'll want to spend some time regularly making an effort to update information and to reconnect with former colleagues and other contacts.

Here are some tips that can help you maintain your network without too big a headache.

1. Go online: A site like LinkedIn.com is an easy way to look up contacts and stay on top of any moves that they make. A social networking site might not be best for professional networking. But if you need to locate a past contact, a site like Facebook should be one of the first places you check.

2. Build a routine: Make it a regular part of your schedule to reconnect with past contacts; for example, make a point to connect with at least one person a week whom you don't regularly encounter. You don't want to have to contact them only when you need a favour.

3. Share good news: If you've been promoted, had a child or any other significant event has happened in your life, use it as a reason to reach out to your network.

4. Introduce others: You can strengthen your network by introducing friends and colleagues who may have similar interests.

5. Share news about opportunities: Be proactive in letting your contacts know about job opportunities and other information that may be of interest. For instance, sending an article to a contact about his or her area of expertise, will be both appreciated and put you back on their radar.

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