Networking for your Career

The single best thing you can do for yourself during times of uncertainty, especially when job security is in question, is to plug into your network. If you think you don’t have one, yes, you really do. It starts with your family, friends and colleagues. After you touch base with each one of those people, you find out who they know that you should know and build from there. Many job seekers I’ve worked with discount this powerful tool, lose track of their past contacts, then find themselves at square one when they’re jobless and desperate for help. It’s important to keep your network active and stay in touch with those outside your day-to-day activities. You may find yourself in need of help one day and with an active network, you'll know just who to call. Statistics show that the jobs experienced professionals are seeking are overwhelmingly found through networking. Another value to getting yourself from behind the computer and out to meetings is that you’ll find the support you need for solving business problems, finding employees, developing relationships, and even identifying your next job.

Just a few more words on the virtual type of networking: If you have already or plan to join Linked In, Facebook or any of the numerous others, spend the time learning about the site and maximize its benefits. Decide what you want from it and then diligently update your profile and respond to people and make connections. And remember – if you should ever find yourself in the job market, recruiters and human resource folks are “googling” candidates. Make sure what they find online about you will actually help you get your next job!

Please post your comments about how networking has helped your career. Have a great week!