It doesn't require an active network at all. > It would feel extremely awkward to now, years later, send them an email If you ever have a reason to send that

It doesn't require an active network at all. > It would feel extremely awkward to now, years later, send them an email If you ever have a reason to send that email I hope you do. Most people enjoy a chance to help someone out and they'll often get a bonus for it. I've gotten emails from people I didn't actually know and just sent them on to the recruiting team. For people I did know or had a trusted recommendation for I'd follow up with the hiring manager directly.