It’s easy to become comfortable in your current job or workplace and think that networking efforts aren’t really necessary. Because that’s what it is – an effort, right? But not staying professionally current and connected can have serious negative implications on your overall career development. Infographic: LANDED! A Proven Roadmap For Today's Job Seeker The reality is, change is inevitable and it often happens when we are least expect it. Not being equipped with the right tools for your next search can cost both precious time and possibly even aposition you were hoping for. On average, job hunters without viable networks spend the first two to three months of a job hunt building a new set of contacts. This is why networking regularly sets your career up for long-term success. Watch: How To Stop Being Random With Your Networking Efforts Susan O’Dwyer, head of business development for a leading public accounting firm, made an excellent point when she said: People in transition often wait to connect with people when they need help. They have allowed themselves to be consumed by their job, travel and other priorities, and not nurtured their relationships along the way. When these bonds wither and die, not only are they difficult to resurrect, you lose access to people who really know you and could speak to your talents and skills as a credible reference. Networking can be taxing, no doubt about it. I also acknowledge that not everyone is comfortable with the process, and some even find it to be somewhat dreadful. The key is to make the way you network fit your personality and style. Like any big task in front of us, thinking about networking in small chunks makes it more manageable, and even enjoyable. Here are three ways to network with intent and avoid burnout:
