Communications of the ACM
Is Social Networking a Career Safety Net?
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Creating and maintaining a large social network of professional contacts can be a safety net during lean economic times. During a recession, jobs are typically the slowest part of business spending to recover, so the current period of economic weakness is the time for workers to develop or revise an escape plan to insulate themselves from possible downturns or unforeseen changes at work. Having a strong social network can help those looking to move into a new career or looking to expand their customer or partner base. Even though the economy is slumping that doesn't mean workers should stop expanding their web of online contacts.
Most social networks are the sum of many groups, specialized around regions, companies, alumni networks, plus personal and professional interests. It's relatively easy to tap into these groups on Facebook and LinkedIn using the functionality available within these social networks. While identifying and joining a community is fairly easy, the reality is that one generally needs to invest a bit of time and energy building a community presence. This requires an investment of time, usually two or three months, before your comments in discussion boards become familiar and respected by the group.
From My Global Career
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