By MARVIN WALBERG, Scripps Howard News Service

We talked about networking last week -- again. Networking is so important we'll talk about it often. In fact, networking is likely the way you'll find your next job.
The Internet is also important, particularly for researching industries and specific companies. You can also use it to get names and addresses of people to add to your network.

In business and in your job search, networking is your key to success. If you are currently unemployed, the chances are greater that your next job will come through networking than any other source.

In business and in your job search, networking is your key to success. If you are currently unemployed, the chances are greater that your next job will come through networking than any other source.

I know that it's not going to go away, but the doom and gloom stories about job loss are simply spreading more doom and gloom. How about some advice and positive news?
This morning the article started on page one. A 61-year old man with 40-years of experience lost his job.

Dear Mr. Walberg: In times like our present economic depression, how do you know when it's time to move on? I like my job, but the morale is so low and business is so slow, I'm getting afraid of layoffs. Is this a time to polish up the resume and get busy, or hang in there and hope for change?
J.P., Alabama

Dear J.P.

Last week we talked about networking again, communication, and the effective use of social and business Internet networking sites like Facebook, Linkedin, Plaxo, Myspace, and others. But what about in-person networking at conventions, card swap parties, professional group meetings, and even hobby groups, bowling leagues, and your kid's soccer games?

We are often very redundant in "Getting Hired", like a parent who constantly lectures rights from wrongs to children. At some point we will let go, but in the meantime, we believe that it's important that you hear what we're saying, and hopefully, believe it to be true!

Last fall, a new hotel in Rhode Island posted job listings for 50 new employees and over 5,000 people applied. In Miami, more than 1,000 applicants vied for 35 positions on the local fire department. In today's economy, competition for jobs is fierce. Getting, and keeping, a job has never been more important.

"Bad news sells newspapers," I've said many times. Although I write for newspapers, I'm critical of how much doom and gloom is served at a time when positive advice and hints of recovery are so sorely needed.

Spring is in the air and I'll bet your cut-off jeans and halter tops are in your closet! You've heard me talk about how some job seekers dress when they are "just filling out apps"? Some things should stay in the closet.