ResumeBear Blog

LinkedIn – Dig a Well Before You’re Thirsty

Posted: 03 Jul 2011 10:41 AM PDT

Are You Prepared to Network When the Time Comes?
“I can always tell when someone’s looking for a new job because they suddenly send me an invite to connect on LinkedIn, along with a whole bunch of our former coworkers.” I hear this sentiment all the time.
It’s a little late to start reaching out for connections *after* receiving that pink slip, reaching that final straw at work or deciding to launch your new business. It takes time to build your network and it looks a little self-serving to only connect once you actually need something from your former colleagues.
Instead of sending an invite to connect followed by an immediate “Do you know of any job openings?” or “Can you help introduce me to so-and-so?”, it’s much wiser (and polite, in my opinion) to connect with these folks up front and begin the networking process *before* you find yourself behind the proverbial eight ball.
A strategic LinkedIn networker builds his/her network when times are good and is available to help his/her connections if those folks happen to have a need. After all, it’s much easier to ask for help when you’ve already done so for others. I’m not saying that there’s a need for quid pro quo necessarily, but if you’re the type that helps others, it will all come back to you. As I always say, “Pay it forward!”
Bonus Tip: Join relevant (local, industry or profession-specific) LinkedIn groups and participate in the discussions periodically. You will establish yourself as an expert in your field and build a great network of your peers if you should ever find yourself in need down the road!
Stacy Donovan Zapar San Diego, CA, United States Most Connected Woman on LinkedIn ~ Blogging about Social Media, Recruiting, Networking and Job Search Tips & Tricks… Pay It Forward

[New Posts] Does a Bankruptcy Kill a Job Offer?

Does a Bankruptcy Kill a Job Offer?

Posted: 02 Jul 2011 10:00 PM PDT

How negatively do employers view an applicant who has a bankruptcy on his or her credit report? What can I do to make employers look past this?

To get this useful advice and many other helpful career resources, visit us now at CAREEREALISM.com.