So you have a job. A paycheck. You're content - just keeping your eyes open in case that dream job comes along, right? Did you know that employers and recruiters refer to people like you as "passive job seekers?" It's not a derogatory term - in fact, most employers want passive job seekers as they are often the ones with the best experience. But the term should make you think more critically about your job search and your career goals. Have you been lulled into a state of passivity when it comes to your career? Are you actively pursuing your goals to move your career in the right direction?

In past decades, employees could afford to be passive. Once they landed a good job, their job was secure and they knew their employer was looking out for their best interests. But in today's landscape of lay offs and outsourcing, you are the one in charge of where your career is going - and only you can make your career goals a reality. What would you do if you were laid off? Would your career still be on track? Here are a few tips to get you thinking and help you prepare to become an active participant in your career.

• Keep an eye on jobs, even if you're happy in your current position. The perfect job may come along that you just can't refuse. And if you're laid off suddenly, you'll have an idea of what types of jobs and salaries are available in your area. If you don't have time to search job sites every day, set up a Career Agent. It's easy and free to do on JobsInPA.com. Just log in to your account, click on "Career Agent" and set up your criteria (keywords, categories, job status, etc.) and any matches will be sent to your email address every night.
• Keep up on your skills. If your employer pays for professional development courses, take as many of them as you can. If they don't, pay for them yourself. You are in charge of your career and the more skills you have, the better it will serve you in the future. It's worth the investment of time and money.
• As you acquire new skills and experience, keep your resume updated as you go along. Don't wait till you're looking for a job and try to remember all of your past accomplishments. Employers want to know what contributions you've made, not just what your core duties are.
• Keep your networking skills fresh. Nothing else will keep you better attuned to great future career possibilities than the people you know (or don't know yet). Keep in touch with old friends, acquaintances, and work colleagues and branch out when you attend professional events and courses.