Whether or not the job market is in the tank, you need a support network during your job search.
A support network can mean different things to different people. For some, it’s a chance to make new contacts. For others, it’s a way to stay sane during the job seeking process.
Online support systems are abundant and are found on sites such as LinkedIn and Xing. 
In online networks, you can not only build contacts and keep your experience up to date, but you can also meet like-minded people, ask questions and/or help others. For years, I’ve been involved in a variety of online networks, and what never ceases to amaze me is how willing people are to extend an arm of support.
So, is it unreasonable to think a job opportunity could be found from an online network? Definitely not. The power of the Internet for socializing and networking is no secret. Many who join online support networks are more than willing to pass along a good lead if they believe someone is a good fit.
Recruiters and employers are also taking notice of the real importance of online networks. They are turning to online networks to discover serious job seeking professionals over standard snail mail competition. There doesn’t seem to be an industry that won’t benefit from using online networks to find new employees and to build lasting professional relationships.
As with any form of networking, it can take time to build contacts. Simply posting your experience, expertise and contact information on these sites won’t bring you contacts. You must be an active participant within the various groups and networks just as you would with any other association or group to which you belong.
image credit: clix
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