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The current economic downturn has highlighted the fact that job security is probably the thing of the past. Individuals are projected to have multiple jobs and careers moving forward. Stable jobs and companies could disappear at any given moment. Likewise, below are strategies you can utilize to adjust and thrive within the evolving job market.

Reserve Time to Network

Each week (regardless if you are employed or not), reserve some time to increase and nurture your network. This could entail attending professional and industry events, speaking with strangers, and asking your current contacts for referrals. Make sure you are not only a taker but also a giver by providing value. You can accomplish this by sharing useful information, opening up your network to others, and so on. Likewise, you will have an opportunity to strengthen your relationships with your contacts.

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Demonstrate Your Expertise

It’s important to differentiate yourself from the competition by demonstrating your expertise. You can achieve this by writing columns for trade publications or white papers. You can also share your expert knowledge by speaking at professional organizations, rotary clubs, or similar venues.

For online purposes, you should create a professional website that hosts your blog and portfolio. If a website is not feasible, sign up for a free account at eHow or Squidoo, create a professional profile, and publish and market your articles. You can also rewrite your articles and submit them to a few article directories with a link box summarizing your expertise.

Keep Your Skills Current and Sharp

For marketability purposes, it’s probably a good idea to ensure your skills do not become outdated. You can keep your skills sharp by taking classes, volunteering, and participating in pro bono assignments. You can also do this by teaching classes, participating in professional association events, and networking with other subject matter experts.

Produce in the Workplace

Once you get back to work, you need to ensure the work you do is vital to your company’s success and your professional development. You must perform this work efficiently and produce results that have a positive financial impact. Most importantly, you need to make sure that your performance is also recognized by decision makers in senior management. This will help you intensify your defense against potential layoffs.

Commercialize Your Passion

Determine what you are really passionate about and if your passion meets an unmet need in the marketplace. If so, determine who are your potential customers and competitors and how you can economically meet this need. You can visit your local SCORE and SBA counselors for further assistance. Once you have a viable business model, you should moonlight on a part-time basis until your business gets up and running. Afterwards, you could become your own boss and create jobs for others.

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Remember the wisdom of a crowd is richer than the wisdom of a few. So actively participate in the free online community at JobRadioUSA.com and encourage fellow job seekers to do the same.

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