Planning the Job Search While Still On the Job

Last night I gave a resume writing class to a great group over in a local library.  A couple of people in the session had jobs but they were concerned that due to the economy and hearing the news around the water cooler that some changes may be in order, that they too might receive their walking papers. If that's what’s going to happen then it will happen but it occurred to me that there might be a couple of things that they can do now, while they are still there.  In no particular order they might consider these:

1. Network: Get to know your vendors or outside service providers better.  They work with people in other companies and may be privy to news of job openings or hidden positions.  Also, be aware that some of your co-workers have networking contacts and those people might be able to help you as well.

2. Learn something.  Take advantage of company-sponsored training and don't say that you don't have time for it.  You may not be able to afford it if you have to pay for it on your own later.

3. Stay current in your field: Either at home or on your break or even at work, research your particular field.  Learn what's new and what's changed. I know firsthand how difficult it is to carve out some time to do this but it is mandatory and necessary.  If someone newer comes into your department and can say and use the buzz words associated with your industry and you are not keeping up, you're in trouble.  Don't ever think that your tenure can keep you safe.

4. Join LinkedIn.  No, it is not used only by job seekers.  Use it to stay current in your field by joining groups in your industry.  You don't have to join the job search groups - stay close to the groups associated with your industry.  Make sure that while in these groups you answer questions and participate.  This will allow you to become a subject matter expert and you will learn something new.  (See # 3 above).

5. Join a professional group.  If your industry has one and your company will pay for the membership, go and participate.  You'll learn something and you'll make many networking contacts in your field.

6. Gather your past performance appraisals, goals, thank you notes, calendars, etc.  You may not realize it now but these will help you compose your resume, interview and network later on down the road.

What else can you do? I've only listed six items but there are many more. Who knows? Perhaps by doing some of these things, you’ll prove that you are a true asset to your organization and maybe you can stick around a bit longer.