Keeping up with distant network - portfolio update email?
Hey folks, seeking some opinions on my idea here. I am a few years removed from the institutional world and am now striking out on my own. There's a handful of people from my former professional life with whom I've kept in touch via occasional emails about interesting topics / meet ups when in the same area. But there's also a lot of people I'm not as close with / wouldn't feel comfortable calling every quarter but would still like to maintain some sort of relationship pulse with. These range from investors I've met at conferences to a couple big-name managers I've crossed paths with.
Twitter and substack seem to be the primary investment-idea dispersion devices nowadays, but I have little desire to partake outside of some anonymous consumption / don't wish to pontificate my ideas to the pedestrian viewer. The best alternative I've come up with is to bcc my network of contacts maybe once or twice a year to provide an overview of my portfolio / main thesis points of my holdings, leaving the door open for any potential reader to reach out to me if they want to discuss something further.
Is this lame/annoying/tacky? I frankly wouldn't expect most to read it, much less respond, but I would feel stupid if Bill Ackman were to respond with a terse "unsubscribe. Thx." Any other ideas for keeping up with distant network?
Based on the most helpful WSO content, your idea of sending a portfolio update email to maintain a connection with your distant network is not inherently lame or tacky, but it does require careful execution to avoid coming across as spammy or self-serving. Here are some tips to refine your approach:
Personalization is Key: While a BCC email is efficient, it can feel impersonal. Consider segmenting your list and tailoring the message slightly for different groups (e.g., investors, managers, peers). A personalized touch, even if brief, can make a big difference.
Value-Driven Content: Ensure your email provides value to the recipients. Highlight unique insights, trends, or perspectives that align with their interests. For example, you could include a brief analysis of a sector or a key takeaway from your portfolio that might resonate with them.
Frequency and Timing: Sending updates once or twice a year is reasonable and aligns with WSO's advice to maintain relationships without being overly persistent. Avoid sending during busy periods like earnings season, as professionals are likely swamped.
Professional Tone and Format: Keep the email concise and professional. Use bullet points or a short summary to make it easy to skim. Include a polite note inviting them to reach out if they’d like to discuss further, but don’t pressure them to respond.
Optional Opt-In: To avoid the dreaded "unsubscribe" response, you could preface your first email with a quick note asking if they’d like to receive occasional updates. This shows respect for their time and preferences.
Alternative Engagement Methods: If you’re hesitant about mass emails, consider other ways to stay on their radar:
Be Thoughtful About Content: As WSO threads suggest, you’ll be judged on the quality of what you send. Avoid overly promotional or generic updates. Instead, focus on thoughtful, well-researched insights that demonstrate your expertise and add value.
By following these strategies, you can maintain a professional relationship pulse with your distant network without coming across as annoying or self-serving.
Sources: How do you continue a linkedin relationship?, Don't Throw Away Your Shot - Networking with Senior Professionals as an MBA, The Best Networking, Cold Calling and Cold Emailing Posts on WSO, How do I effectively "follow up" or maintain my networking relationships?, Networking 101 – 8 tips from a “non-target” school student
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