Networking Beats Not Working.

As availability of the COVID vaccine grows, people are starting to feel more comfortable venturing into social environments. Now is a great time to re-engage your networks to help advance your job search.

As someone who battles social anxiety, I know how the word "networking" can cause fear and distress. It might be hard to believe, but extroverted behavior doesn't come naturally for me. I've used every excuse to not attend luncheons, happy hours and other gatherings where I might have to talk to someone I've never met.

Nonetheless, networking is a great way to get connected to job opportunities before they hit the public job boards.

Don’t be ashamed to let people know that you are unemployed. The pandemic has affected the job market even more than the Great Recession.  

Networking is going to increase the number of people that are keeping an eye out for potential job opportunities. And the bigger your network, the greater the chance is that you might learn about a job opening before it is even posted.

To ease yourself into networking, start where you are most comfortable -- family and friends; social interest groups, and professional associations.

I find that one for the least-painful ways to start networking is to take your online contacts, and actually phone a friend. Once you make that first call on talk to a friendly voice, the rest will be much easier. And, by the time we are back to gathering in large groups, you will be a pro at networking!

Thanks to @Fox26Houston for allowing me and @WorkforceSolutions the opportunity to share job search advice every Friday morning at 6:15 am.