Think You’re Not Looking for a Job? Guess Again….

After several years of low unemployment, job seekers have forgotten what it was like ten years ago to look for a job. Regardless of how happy we are in our current roles or how secure we think our positions are, job security is always an illusion—whether unemployment is low or not. A false sense of job security can cause people to neglect to forge valuable professional contacts, both in and out of their industry, because they feel networking isn’t necessary. But networking is always a good idea! Here are 5 ways you can network while employed and improve your career prospects now and down the road:

1. Join local professional groups in your area
Connecting with other professionals in your area is always a good idea. Network After Work and Meetup.com are a great resources for this and they have events in most major cities. You can also check with your local Business Journal and Chamber of Commerce for other professional groups and networking events. If you make a point to be more active in your community, you’ll start to get comfortable talking to people you don’t know and this is a valuable skill to master. You’ll also learn what people in similar roles are doing at other companies and you’ll start to build relationships with people at those companies. If you do find yourself unexpectedly in the job market, you’ll already have some inside contacts to help you get your foot in the door.

2. Make client visits more regularly
Get out and see the people you’re doing business with! Putting in face time with clients is a smart way to grow your existing business relationship and it also reminds them that you’re great at what you do. There may be a future job prospect with them, or they may be able to be a great reference for you.

3. Volunteer
Volunteering brings people from a variety of backgrounds together for a common goal and it’s a wonderful way to network with people who you may not ordinarily come into contact with in your typical professional circle. You can meet some really prominent and well connected people through volunteer work, and these are ideal networking contacts.

4. Take a class or attend a conference
Growing your professional skill set through a new certification or continuing education course is a smart approach to networking. Plus, you’ll be able to add a line to your resume and this is great whether you’re employed or not. Instructors and classmates will be valuable resources and can share industry tips that will help you further your career.

5. Take up a hobby
The goal with networking is to get out more so you come into contact with people who you wouldn’t normally meet. Networking can happen when you least expect it. If you’ve been thinking about taking an art class, joining a sports league, or taking up the guitar—there’s no better time than now to take it up. You may find that someone in your class works for a company that you admire and would therefore be a great networking contact in the future.

The wisest professionals network during the entire life-cycle of their career—both in times of career success and in times of transition. The ultimate goal with networking is to say “yes” to more things more often. Your future career will thank you.

Ask us your job search and career questions via the online chat function in the lower left-hand corner of your screen. We are passionate about helping job seekers experience success and we love to share what we know!