According to HR World site, there are 25 careers which could be started in recession/bad times with favorable results. A Good thing about them is that most of them are web based “work at home” kind, like:
- Accounting
- Education
- Consulting

As far as networking is concerned, I agree more than a 1000%. By joining popular and trusted online business sites, you can stay in touch or get business from partners/clients both simultaneously.