Finding a job is always a challenge, but for people searching right now, it’s almost impossible. Very few companies are hiring. Those that are seeking new employees tend to hire people who have proven track records at work, those they know. They hire known quantities. The logical outgrowth of this observation is that now is the time to improve your networking skills. Networking is the most reliable path to a new job in these uncertain times. It can put you in ‘the right place at the right time’ and fuel the good fortune that you need to get hired. You make your own luck, it’s said, and one way to do that is by networking when you are looking for a new job. Here are five strategies to turn the tide of luck in your favor.

Be a People Person

When you are looking for work, go out of your way to be gregarious. You need your connections more than ever, so now is the time to nurture them. Chat with everyone you know and everyone you meet. Build relationships with your hair dresser, your mechanic, the neighbor, and the guy who lives across the hall. Meet friends at the gym or at the park for some exercise, a jog or a game of ball. Any one of these connections might be the one who hears about a job opening in your field or a person who can give you a reference to a prospective employer.

Be a Joiner

Find some new groups to join while you are on the hunt for your new job. Pick groups of interest to you or that tap into hobbies or passions in your life. Churches, hobbyist groups, book clubs, or teams are just a few examples to explore. Not only will the group provide you with distraction from the challenges that you are facing, you will also broaden your horizons and meet new people. Any one of the new acquaintances may be the key to a new position.

Be a Volunteer

Volunteer jobs can open doors that seem like they will never open. Offer your services to an organization that can utilize your skills or that will allow you to learn new ones that seem interesting. Nearly all organizations that use volunteers also have paid staff, and you’ll be in a great position to hear about job openings. In addition, you will be making friends and impressing other volunteers. These connections might well also lead to the employment that you desire.

Be a Committee Worker

Make yourself indispensable to the organizations that you choose to associate yourself with. Serve on committees and hold offices. By taking a visible role in the running of the organization, you will help others to remember you and your skills. You will build the types of favorable relationships that can lead to recommendations, references, and new jobs.

Be an Activist

Get involved with an organization that works with your passions in life. Whether you work for a better life for disabled children, support your local library, or clean up parks, you will be making more connections that will be invaluable in your job search. In addition to making the world a better place, you will have an opportunity to learn new skills and meet new people.

All of these strategies will lead you to make the new connections that will eventually land you that job that you are seeking. The key is to make and nurture relationships with people who are in the position to help you with information about job openings, provide references, or even consider your application and resume next time there is an opening in their company. Make your own luck by spinning your web of interpersonal connections. Build your people network, and sooner or later, you will have the job that you are seeking.

Sandy Fleming is freelance writer and educator working with adults needing supported education and job training assistance. For help with basic skills education, training readiness, and professional development, please visit The Job Training Readiness Center.

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