It is not weird if you reconnect with a real update and acknowledge the gap naturally. Recruiting relationships often go quiet for months because candidates are waiting for the right application cycle.

Give the person a reason to remember the conversation. Mention one specific point they shared, what changed for you since then, and why you are reaching out now. That feels much more natural than pretending you stayed in touch.

A short note can say that you spoke last fall, found their advice on the office useful, and are now preparing to apply. You can then ask how things have been going rather than immediately asking for a referral.

Reopen the relationship first and keep the ask light. If the conversation restarts, recruiting questions can follow naturally. For more examples, see the consulting coffee chat guide.

I did this after about eight months. Referencing one specific thing from the old chat made it feel normal.