Career Advice Talk

Job Search Networking - Bay Area Networking

28th May, 2009 - Posted by Robin Ogden -

I took the opportunity to attend a CSix Bay Area networking event last Thursday in Saratoga, CA and wanted to give you the basics on the event and what to expect should you be in the area and decide to attend in the future.

The CSix event (which you can access on WorkIt.com) is very well organized and a great way to network and meet new contacts while in job search.  This particular event was attended by approximately 100 individuals.  Each person who is a ‘new attendee’ has the opportunity to introduce themselves and ask for contacts that anyone may know of in particular companies they are looking at - all in an organized fashion based on specific information which is available for you to follow and located at your table.  This format is very helpful in the event an attendee happens to be a ‘long winded’ intro., and the host keeps things running smoothly.

Once introductions are complete the next step is for everyone to get up and network around the room.  Providing you with an opportunity to meet new people, discuss your background, distribute business cards (don’t go without a business card…and be sure it is ‘your’ business card and not your card from your ex-employer).  This networking goes on for 15-20 minutes and you are then asked to take your seats in order for the guest presenter to begin.  At this meeting the speaker was Genie Z. Laborde, author of Influencing with Integrity who helped us all gain a better understanding of body language and how it can help us build relationships effortlessly.

This was a great networking experience and I would highly recommend it.  Great for job seekers - you can also offer a hand and get involved it you wish as this is a non-profit, volunteer group.