Re-Establish Connections
In the current working environment, where many people find themselves rapidly losing jobs or earning less income than they were previously accustomed to, it can be difficult to stay connected to one’s networks of friends and colleagues. Often times, people find themselves so overwhelmed by the pressure of transitioning to a new job, or being unable to find a new job that is commensurate with their education and experience, that they forget about the importance of maintaining strong ties with their connections. Re-establishing connections in a job search is extremely important as it can not only open up opportunities for networking and finding out about job opportunities, but it can also be a major source of moral, emotional, and professional support. In this article, we will explore the best ways to re-establish connections and make the most out of job seeking efforts.
Social Media Platforms
Social media platforms are widely used in today’s job market, and they are a great platform for keeping in touch with family, friends, former colleagues and contacts, and even employers. Setting up a professional LinkedIn profile, for example, is a great way to keep in touch with old colleagues, maintain and build a network of contacts, and learn about the latest job postings and industry news. Social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook are also great for finding and keeping in touch with old contacts in order to build bridges and create further professional opportunities.
Networking Events
Attending networking events is a great way to open up new doors, as well as nurture relationships with existing contacts. In addition to large career fairs, small events, such as chamber of commerce and alumni gatherings, are also great for re-establishing contacts and forging new relationships. Keep in mind that these events should act as more than just recruiting grounds. The goal should be to build and maintain long-term relationships with colleagues, mentors, and/or potential employers.
Phone Calls or Video Chats
No matter how busy you may be, taking the time to pick up the phone and check-in with contacts can have a huge impact on the success of the job search. A simple call or video chat is a great way to not only keep up with the latest news about opportunities, but also to maintain contact with individuals in the industry who may be able to provide tips, advice, and insights about the job search and transition process.
Online Networking
Organizations such as Meetup.com and civic groups often provide great opportunities for networking and connecting with potential employers, as well as individuals who may have experienced similar career transitions. Not only do these groups generally feature resources in which members can post or read advice, they often host events and workshops which can help the job seeker gain additional insight into their respective field, or even help them reassess their resumes and cover letters.
Keep Your Resume Up-to-Date
While stepping away from the job search can sometimes be necessary, always be sure to keep your resume up-to-date. Consider making changes or small tweaks to your resume every few months, to reflect any changes in your skills, experiences, or interests. Having a well-rounded resume that is regularly updated is a great way to ensure that potential employers will be interested in your profile when you are ready to apply for available jobs.
Utilize Your Alumni Network
In addition to keeping in contact with former colleagues, potential employers, and industry contacts, the alumni network of a former degree program can also be a great resource when it comes to re-establishing connections. Whether it’s through attending alumni events, joining alumni social media groups, or utilizing the job search resources that are often provided for students, alumni networks often provide great opportunities for not only linking up with potential employers, but also learning about valuable resources that can help during the job search process.
Seek Advice
Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Whether it’s from a former mentor or an advisor, seeking advice can often be the last piece of the puzzle when it comes to achieving success in the job search. Even just asking for a few pointers on resumes, cover letter writing, or networking strategies can really make a difference, when it comes to re-establishing connections and achieving success.
Re-establishing connections in a job search is a critical part of the process. It can help to open up swathes of opportunities while also providing emotional support during what can be a tumultuous and trying process. By making use of the various strategies and platforms outlined in this article, individuals can successfully manage the job search process, while also ensuring that their connections remain strong.
