Since much of what we do in The FENG is about job search, I thought it might be appropriate to make a few suggestions to everyone about what to do when you do actually find a new job.

I’ll be blunt. Job search is primarily filled with uncertainty, highs and lows and activities like making networking calls, which as financial folks we generally don’t like doing.

Still, as I frequently remind everyone: “All jobs are temporary.”

If you are going to be successful at this “career thing” you need to face facts, and the most important one is that you are never really employed, you are just between searches. A sad state of affairs, perhaps, but one that is factual.

With this as a backdrop, the first thing you need to do when you land a job is thank EVERYONE who helped you in any way shape or form. Sounds silly that I would have to remind you, but there are members who even forget to send in a good news announcement. I am sure that these folks also forget to reach out to their support network and let them know they have landed.

Through no one’s fault jobs don’t last that long anymore. If you are suddenly and unexpectedly back active in your search you will find yourself reluctant to call your network if you never took the time to thank them for their help.

That is phase one. Phase two is never again allowing yourself to be too busy to help others who call you to network. Sure, the new job requires you to be nose to the grindstone and shoulder to the wheel 16 hours a day, 6-7 days a week. But, if you don’t take an hour or two each week to network by catching up with old friends, you are doing yourself a disservice.

When your dream job disappears, the company won’t help you rebuild your network.

Now that you have gone through the painstaking process of creating a resume, you now understand the logic. Keep your resume up to date. Think about the projects you finish in accomplishment terms and write them down.

And my final suggestion to all of you is keep yourself connected to The FENG. I continue to be amazed and astounded when I get an email that states: “I am starting a new job on Monday, please stop the newsletter.” (You would think they could at least wait until a few paychecks clear the bank.)

Think of the evening newsletter as your very own Central Intelligence Agency, only better. Not only does it allow you to spot friends who have landed so you can call them, the many messages and job leads in particular allow you to keep your finger on the pulse of what is happening in the marketplace.

We have a good thing going with our circle of friends. Stay connected. Participate.

You will find that it pays significant long term benefits. (If I’m wrong you can let me know in 10 years.)

Regards, Matt