Networking

Yeah, it's painful for some of us, but it's a necessary component of the job hunt. It should be a part of your professional and personal development plan anyway, so may as well start practicing. Networking events vary widely across the globe.

- Actively look for groups in your part of the world. The best place to start in the US is with professional associations and alumni groups.

- Many colleges and universities are extending career services offerings to alumni, too, as are churches and temples. The trick with any networking group is to find ones that work for you.

- All states have a variation on "the unemployment office" and many offer a variety of programs to support professionals looking for work. California sponsors networking groups (usually called Experience Unlimited or ProSearch); Oregon offers an online service called iMatch that matches job seekers with employers.

- To build speaking, networking and interview skills and meet great people at the same time, check out your local Toastmasters club. There's a club nearly anywhere in the world.

Northern California

- Visit Job Connections, sponsored by the Community Presbyterian Church in Danville, CA. They keep advice practical, the mood positive, and have weekly speakers.

- Workit is an event listing service. Use it to post events or find business, educational and social events.