Get out and network in your job search!

A memorable quote from the movie Field of Dreams resonates with me. “If you build it, they will come”, how true!

Networking is perhaps the best investment in time you can make in a job search. Although some are uncomfortable with the concept and consider it difficult, it is essential that you network effectively with your professional colleagues, associates, past employers, past co-workers, suppliers, neighbours, friends and others who might have leads to opportunities. Another strategy is to become an active member of your trade or professional associations in your area, regionally or even nationally. Position yourself on their Executive Board, this will attract more attention and gain respect from your peers. Being elected to an executive position by your peers will impress a future employer as it shows many good qualities.

In today’s turbulent economy, you are likely to change jobs every few years. The most profitable strategy is to maintain your network while you are gainfully employed. The people you have met during your job search will appreciate a brief e-mail every three to four months on what you are doing and have achieved with your employer. They don’t just want to know you during a job search.