When watching the news, it can be easy to be misled by all the good vibe coming out about how well the economy is performing or how low the unemployment rate is. However, these are just impersonal statistics at a macroeconomic level. Regardless of how the economy does, your company may differ in its outlook.

It’s important therefore to have a good network of people at work to get the inside scoop on how the company’s doing or rumblings about operational changes that may involve restructuring or relocation. Access to this type of information will give you a head start in planning your next move. You may not act on it, or you may decide to wait and see how things unfold, but in the meantime, it doesn’t stop you from putting your thoughts together, and, while you’re at it, your resume as well. Should the worst come to happen, you will not be caught off-guard like others, but will be mentally prepared for the next phase in your career, unless you have already jumped ship.

The other reason why knowing what’s going on at work or in your industry is important is because it will help you put things in perspective and broaden your vision. You’re not limited to the company you work at. If things go well, perfect. However, if things turn sour, or there’s a conflict you can’t seem to shake off, you know that you can always look elsewhere, that there are other opportunities out there. This can be reassuring and empowering at the same time because you won’t feel stuck where you are. Indeed, too many people feel that way and that is what is dragging them down.