Ask HR

Q. What is the best way to get back in the job market after being laid off?

Stephen Szafarz, SPHR; human resources manager/SHRM-Atlanta president-elect, Cisco

A. There are many ways to get back in the job market: engage search firms; maximize company provided outplacement services; networking with professional associations, acquaintances, to name a few. In my opinion, the best way to get back in the job market is a blended search strategy — employ all methods and resources in your search, keeping in mind networking has consistently yielded the most results.

Cathy Missildine-Martin, SPHR; senior vice president, sales and marketing, Intellectual Capital Consulting Inc.

A. When times are tough, employers probably depend on word of mouth and referrals to get candidates more than advertising. With this in mind, candidates need to dust off their Rolodexes and start networking. Flexibility is also key in this environment; be prepared to work variable schedules or different hours to get a foot in the door.

Danese Simpkins, MS; PHR; human resource manager, Air2Web

A. The best way to get back into the job market is through networking, whether in person or via social networking forums such as LinkedIn, Facebook and others. Oftentimes we get in our comfort zone and fail to expand our networks beyond those we work with every day. We must network within and outside of our organizations. If co-workers are being laid off, how can that benefit you? That’s when our external networks can benefit us the most.

Joann Adeogun, PHR; president, Adeogun & Associates LLC

A.If you have never marketed yourself, now is definitely the time. First, let everyone know that you are looking and open to referrals. Second, join networking groups such as LinkedIn. Finally, volunteering in your area of expertise can help you gain additional experience and open the door when positions become available at that organization.

The following human resources professionals are members of the Atlanta Chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management. If you have a question you would like to ask a panel of local experts, please e-mail it to Sharon Belhamel, vice president of public relations for SHRM-Atlanta at sbelhamel@bellsouth.net. For more information about becoming a member of SHRM-Atlanta, please visit their membership section or call 404.442.7335.