Q: After being laid off from a well paid job in 2008, I took a position in a less competitive sector for about half the pay. I’ve been successful and enjoyed the last four years –modest pay notwithstanding– with great coworkers, less stress and less travel. But, with the economic recovery I now feel it’s time to jump back in and start making big bucks again. The problem is I’ve lost touch with my old professional network. Where do I begin my search?
A: You’re not alone in wanting to leave the job that paid the bills during the downturn. Many employees who stayed put out of necessity have now started looking at new opportunities since more companies are hiring. That and the fact that during the employer-driven job market, many companies were concentrating on the bottom line while neglecting their workers (freezing salaries, increasing workloads or both), it’s no surprise that over half of American workers say they’re ready to bolt.
From your question it sounds like you made the classic mistake of not maintaining a professional network separate from the one provided by your current job. It’s time to re-connect. The best way to do this is by combing through LinkedIn and locating former colleagues. But don’t just send the boiler plate “request to connect” we see everyday. Write a personal message tailored to the person and when appropriate offer to catch up over the phone. Where do they work? Learn who’s hiring people with your qualifications and know the latest trends in your field.
Also consider, leveling with your current employer. Let them know the reason you’re looking over the fence is the need for more compensation, not dissatisfaction with the job. Depending on the relationship, but especially if you’ve done a good job for years, your boss could become your best ambassador and ally in finding something else.
Lastly, do follow all the guidelines of a normal job search. Many people in your situation (under-employed but looking) tend to go about the search half-hearted. They lack the urgency and focus that comes from being unemployed. Don’t let it drag out, make sure your heart is in it.
© Copyright Eva Del Rio
