I talk often about staying in touch with your network, even while you have a job and aren’t looking for a new one… yet.

This is because building and maintaining relationships with your network is not only for when you need something. The best networks are built upon mutual reciprocity which you can achieve by giving more than you are receiving.

By staying connected with your network while you are employed you will be able to:

• Hear about the challenges in your industry, trends and valued skills and experience
• Build a broader network where you can help others when they need it
• Identify what “hot skills” hiring managers are seeking
• Develop stronger relationship building skills (practice, practice, practice!)
• Foster a relationship where your contacts think of you when they hear about relevant opportunities
• Engage with your network quickly when you do need them, especially when you have lost your job.

In short, keeping your network active will increase your chances of finding a new job sooner than if you ignore your contacts and let your network fade away. And if you don’t stay active with your network, that’s exactly what will happen!

If you are not actively keeping your network alive, it is not too late! Here are 3 things you can do right now:

• Make a list of 10-15 people who were instrumental in your last job search or have provided you with great career advice.
• Reach out to them on LinkedIn or email and ask to set up a virtual coffee chat to hear about what they are up to.
• Send a “thinking of you” email focusing on them

Take action: Which one of these three things will you do? Please tell me in the comments below.