Staying connected to old friends takes time, and even a certain amount of skill. You are, after all, living your own life, and while you may want to stay connected, it’s not always feasible to stay in touch. The good news is that there are several social media platforms out there that you can use to stay up to date with those old friends, which, in turn, can make it easier to reconnect when you’re ready. 

You already know about the major social media platforms. This guide covers the more unique social platforms that allow you to stay connected in a more organic, authentic way than ever before: 

Use a Yearbook Social Platform 

A great way to stay up to date with old classmates in a low-key way is to use a yearbook social platform. All you need is to elementary school yearbooks on classmates.com. From there you can start conversations with your other classmates on the platform, upload a now photo to go alongside the then photo, and so much more. 

This is a particularly powerful platform in the lead-up to a big reunion. Make sure the yearbook is uploaded properly, and ensure everyone knows they can view or reorder their old yearbook online. It’s an easy way to stay updated, even if you don’t actively stay in touch. 

Connect on Smaller Socials 

If you don’t like the curated updates and posts popular on social media apps like Instagram, or are struggling with social media addiction, but want a social channel you can use to stay connected without getting caught in the endless scroll, consider adopting a channel like BeReal. BeReal’s premise is that you take photos of what you’re doing, no editing allowed. This way, you can see what your old friends are doing in a more intimate environment that’s all about real connections. 

Work Socials 

While work socials like LinkedIn are far from authentic, they are a great way to stay up-to-date with old friends’ accomplishments. Considering the importance of networking and knowing the right person, just having all your old friends on platforms like LinkedIn can help give you an in if you need them. Otherwise, you can think of this social side of LinkedIn as a way to know whenever your old friends have accomplished something professionally, so you can congratulate them and let them know you wish them the best. 

Messaging Groups 

Yes, messenger apps count as social media. Group chats, in particular, are a great, easy way to stay in direct contact with old friends. Choose a messaging app popular in your area, which could be a text group, WhatsApp, Messenger, or even Telegram. 

Discord 

Another way to stay in touch with old friends is through Discord. Discord has become a very popular platform for streaming, groups, and clubs, and it can be used just as easily to keep in touch with old friends or family. It’s particularly notable for its ability to co-play a variety of games, or share screens, allowing you to catch up in unique, low-key ways that make it easier to remain friends. 

Roundup: Why Expand Beyond The Top Channels

These social channels won’t replace the ease of channels like Facebook or Instagram, where you’ll be able to see everyone’s updates with ease. They’re extra options for those who want a more dedicated, intimate, or authentic approach to staying in touch, which, in the end, can help you stay lifelong friends even if you don’t actually speak or see each other for years between meetings.