The first week of May is a great time to re-connect with people and enhance your career. You don’t need to be in a job search at the moment to touch base with key people in your work-life. A key element of effective career management is that we don’t wait until we’re in job hunt mode to reach out to people. We move around so much its easy to lose touch with people who can speak highly of you and your reputation.
If you are in job search mode, check your list of professional references to make sure you have selected appropriate individuals to maximize your candidacy and that all contacts are up-to-date. This will ensure they will be easy to locate, should you find yourself in need of an employment reference. Be sure you let your references know what type of work you would like to do next. Let them know the companies or location you are targeting so they can assist with your networking.
Generally this includes former bosses. It also includes former professors, other managers, team members, customers/clients or vendors with whom you had a good work relationship. You know other people who know you and can speak for your good reputation from your community activities.
Check in with them to learn what they are doing and let them know what projects and initiatives are keeping you engaged. Who knows? You might discover there is a new opportunity in your future!