If you ask for advice on what to do when you’re out of work and looking for a new job, you’ll hear: “Network.”  Unfortunately, that’s terrible advice – not because professional networking is ineffective, but because they gave you the advice way too late.  The best results come from consistent networking regardless of your employment status.

If you already have a strong network of people with whom you communicate regularly, networking is simple.   The next time you talk to each person, update them on your circumstances and how you’re doing.  You probably won’t even have to ask them for anything; they’ll jump at the chance to help you if they can.

If you weren’t networking before being let go from your job, you have a more difficult task ahead of you.  Networking is still useful, it’s just going to be a lot more work. 

Don’t network to milk your contact list for prospective job openings.  First, focus on creating a robust network of people with whom you would value regular communication. There’s something to be said for a broad network that spans industries, skillsets, and job titles, so don’t focus strictly on those who you think might offer you a job.  Frankly, this is what you should have been doing all along.

Get your professional network restarted by creating a list of the people you’ve enjoyed working with over the years.  Then reach out and start a conversation.  Be honest with your intentions, and if you can’t be, you should reevaluate why you put that person on your list. 

Are you having trouble with what to say?  Try this.  “Hey, Sam.  I got laid off from my job, and it got me thinking about all of the people I’ve lost touch with over the years.  I’m taking some time to fix that and try to reconnect.  I’m sure I’ll find a new job soon and intend to do better at staying in contact when I do.  How have you been?  How is your family?” 

Communicate with them regularly from that point forward.  We’re all busy and it’s easy to deprioritize networking, especially when you’re not actively job hunting. But consistent communication is important, so set a recurring calendar reminder or task to check-in and keep the relationship going.  Communicate more in the beginning to help promote a strong foundation. After you have that, communicating once a quarter is usually all it takes, but you can adjust depending on the person and the value each of you receives. 

After rebuilding your core network, then make a list of everyone you’ve worked with but with whom you wouldn’t necessarily want to create a long-lasting or or deep relationship.  Then, the same as before, reach out (but don’t forget, be honest with your intentions).  As an example, try this:  “Hi, Cindy.  I got laid off from my job.  I enjoyed working with you in the past and wanted to see if you were aware of any opportunities.  I hope all is well with you and yours.  Talk to you soon.”

Beware: this isn’t exactly real networking—it’s a solicitation, plain and simple.  The upside is that it’s quick and can be expansive, but you won’t get as many of the many benefits that a strong network can provide. 

If you’ve found yourself in need of a job, definitely make use of both approaches until you land your next opportunity.  But remember: don’t  let that new job distract you from maintaining the relationships you’ve worked so hard to cultivate along the way!

Have you built a strong professional network? Let us know how in the comments.