The 10% Rule That Protects Your Career

Recently, a friend called and said, “I have bad news—I’ve been laid off.”

She was shocked. And so was I. She’d had a strong career, she’d been promoted often, and people trusted her with big projects. But when it happened, she said, “I knew it was coming. Thousands of us were affected. But I thought I was safe.”

She said, “I have severance, which is helpful. But I have not looked for a job in 10 years. And my biggest mistake, she told me, “I haven’t networked. I’ve worked closely with people—but once the project ended, so did our connection.

When we hung up, I remembered about what Dr. Anthony Ipsaro had told me. He was a mentor of mine. He said this, “No matter how much you like your job or how good you are at it, or how busy you are in your life, spend 10% of your time looking for your next job.

That doesn’t mean applying for jobs—it means staying in touch. Grabbing coffee with someone or calling a former manager who you liked…and they liked you or sending a quick check-in note.

At The Confidence Project, I call this the Give. Give. Give. Ask. Approach.

Here’s a Give:

• Share the link TED Talk or article with the subject line: “Thought of you when I saw this.”

• Comment on a LinkedIn post of people admire or you’ve worked with—or you’d like to work with someday.

• And one of my favorite Gives? Cut out a print article, add a sticky note that says, “Thought of you when I read this,” or “This article reminded me of you. I hope you’re doing well.” Sign your name….and pop it in the U.S. mail.

This isn’t about asking for anything—now or even ever. It’s simply about staying top of mind. And showing people that you appreciate them, or respect their work, or admire what they’re doing.

Staying in touch is your career insurance policy. Relationships fade when they’re neglected. Keep yours active with small, thoughtful touches. You never know…your next opportunity may come from someone you already know—but only if they remember you.

Thanks for reading.