You've been laid off. How can you network effectively and land your next job?

Create opportunities for new connections. Join groups, and follow people and companies who are doing things you are interested in. Comment and have discussions - don't pitch. If you are up for it, write an article or 20. The object is to stand out from the competition and also create value for those around you. The right people will eventually notice.

Always keep updating your skills and align it with the current trends while not getting lost in your current job and role. You don't have to make big progress, but small steps and milestones will count towards significant progress. Keep your LinkedIn engaged with activities, likes, reposts and increase connections by getting connected with people you meet.

To network effectively after a layoff, update your LinkedIn to reflect your skills and signal you're seeking work. Reach out to your network with personalised messages about your job search. Engage in industry groups and attend networking events to meet potential employers. Consider informational interviews to gain insights and forge new connections. Always follow up with a thank you and stay in touch. Networking is about building genuine relationships, so remain proactive and positive.

Connect on social media with your family and known friends. This will help you build professional connections easily, while you and your friend from high school may not be sharing same interests and job profile, but your friend's neighbor could be someone who shares articles of your interest and eventually hire from your skillset. Be open to connect to your circle and that helps you expand your circle further.

Try to expand your network through connections and common interests rather than knocking a stranger's door. While you can also connect with strangers provided you met with them at a conference or family gathering or holiday party. It will help both of them to expand their networks and share common thoughts or interests.

Not on at the end of a conference, but also the end of day or end of week think of some people you met and would like to be connected to expand your circle. Follow-up as early as possible so you don't forget each other's name and common interests. Summarize your conversation and connect with them. It doesn't end there, try to stay in touch with your connections for their work anniversaries, birthday, new jobs and other important events.

First of all. Keep in mind that networking is fundamental. It is something to do as part of your professional life. When I was laid off the first thing I regreted was my internal focus and lack of networking . It made my return to the market much more difficult. I had two bad experiences with job searching companies. In both cases what worked was my network. So, take time to do it. Engage on professional nets, give your opinion on articles and posts and create your own posts. It is worth.

Join a job search community like Never Search Alone by Phyl Terry. You will have not only a new approach but a support council and community as you go through the process as well.