You already know that networking is one of the most important parts of building and maintaining a solid career. But many people fall into the trap of losing their networking potential after being let go from their current position. It is easy to quickly lose touch with associates when they no longer know how to get a hold of you. If you have only kept in touch with business contacts through a company e-mail address, you run the risk of losing touch after a sudden lay-off. Whether because of embarrassment or simple loss of information, you’re suddenly faced with trying to re-build your career through luck and cold calls.

How can you avoid such a fate and keep your business contacts open after being laid off? It’s important to remember to let people know, as soon as possible, how you can be reached during this transition.

At all times during your career, it’s important to keep a professional-sounding personal e-mail account ready and stocked with your business address book. Something as simple as John.Doe@gmail.com will do. Then, if you find yourself suddenly without your business e-mail address, shoot out a ‘change of information’ message to your associates as soon as possible, letting them know your new contact information.

This first message isn’t a time for pleading, personal laments, or bitterness. Keep it short and simple, and save the more detailed, personal communication for later. Send a follow-up message after you’ve had a chance to reevaluate where you’re going and how your network could help you get there.

After all, these are the same people who have helped you get as far as you have in your career. Chances are, they’ll still be there for you and willing to do as much as they can to make your career transition as smooth as possible.