Job Search Resources Weekly Update - 12/7/09

Weekly updates! Please let me know if know of other items to add, or if you have any feedback on events.

Follow these links to find the updates, and follow further for the full listings.

2 Updates and 7 New in SoCal Networking Event Organizations.

No updates to Networking & Social Media Job Search Webinars, Teleconferences and Podcasts.

Updates to SoCal Educational Networking & Job Search Organizations.

Updates to Other & Indirect Job Networking Opportunities

SoCal Networking Event Organizations

Name: So Cal Sushi
Cost: Free, excluding cost of food and drink
Review: Last week Neal re-started his LA-local meetings (they were primarily in OC) and of course there was an interesting selection of people. Neal Schaffer's concept/book "Windmill Networking" put into practice. Great format, from Neal's introductory statement, the table of biz cards, name-tags, round-table introductions (sometimes video recorded), to lunch (prix fixe). Recommended.
Updated 12/7/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: The Circle LA
Review: I tried to attend their last event at the Liquid Kitty on Pico. Granted, I arrived about two hours in, but I couldn't find the group. The venue was small, dim, mostly empty, and loud. I'll give it another chance.
Updated 12/7/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Access Executive Network (AccessEn)
Sites: OC Chapter, LA Chapter
Self-description: " ACCESS Executive Network (AccessEN) is dedicated to bringing together leaders and senior executives to enhance professional connections and give back to our community.

Sharing Business.
At AccessEN, our entrepreneurs and business executives:

* Brainstorm and share ideas during "real-life" business case studies
* Share expertise and knowledge at monthly networking events
* Provide ongoing discussion and interaction via online forums
* Enable access to valuable resources including OC thought leaders

Giving Back.
Our annual survey shows that members join because of our strong network of entrepreneurs and executives. Yet, members say that one of the most important benefits they actually receive from joining AccessEN is giving back to the community.

* Members "give back" – a portion of every membership fee and event fee goes to our charities
* Members "share time" – we serve our community including "adopting" an at-risk child for a day at the beach and working at the community soup kitchen"
Frequency/Location: LA: roughly monthly / Sony Pictures Plaza, 3910 Madison Ave, Culver City , CA 90232
Frequency/Location: OC: monthly / Chairman's Room, The Center Club, 650 Town Center Drive Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Cost: $45/person or "$300 yearly individual membership fee for unlimited meetings in LA or OC Meeting and membership fees help support charity organizations. "
Review: Events include networking, a presentation, and a business case.
Added 12/7/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: SoCal SpeedNetworking
Sites: socalspeednetworking.com
Self-description: "SoCal SpeedNetworking is the premier solution to help you expand your network by bringing the professional working community an innovative solution to enhance networking opportunities. Make more business contacts at just one SpeedNetworking event than you can in weeks of ordinary business networking! It is well known that the primary way businesses, especially small or new businesses gain new customers, clients and contacts is via business networking. Getting face to face with a potential client or partner is the only way you really know whether you can do business with them or not but traditional networking events can sometimes be very unproductive. Many people tend to gravitate towards those they may already know, never getting the opportunity to meet others who could be great business contacts. In our structured environment you will interact with many individuals on a one-to-one basis that you may have never otherwise had the chance to network with. Being able to meet lots of people in the time frame usually set aside for just one or two appointments means you can spend more of your time actually doing work that earns money. "
Frequency/Location: Multiple times a month / Various locations including Northridge, Mission Hills, Beverly Hills, San Fernando, Burbank, Santa Monica, Simi Valle, etc.
Cost: "The cost to attend a SpeedNetworking event is $10.00 or $15.00 for online payment and $20.00 if you pay at the door. "
Review: "A limited amount of complementary appetizers will be served. "
Added 12/7/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: People (Men) Between Jobs
Sites: peoplebetweenjobs.wordpress.com, also an email list.
Self-description: "Free support base, job postings, network, career & job events"
Frequency/Location: "Monday nights 7pm" / Room 204, Shepherd of the Hills, 19700 Rinaldi St., Porter Ranch, CA
Cost:
Review: "Women welcome"
Added 12/7/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Information Systems Security Association
- Los Angeles Chapter
Sites: www.issa-la.org, linkedin.com/groups?gid=141501, twitter.com/issala. Other SoCal chapters include Orange County, Inland Empire, and San Diego.
Self-description: "The Information Systems Security Association (ISSA) is an international organization providing educational forums, publications and peer interaction opportunities that enhance the knowledge, skills and professionalism. The primary goal of ISSA is to promote management practices that will ensure availability, integrity and confidentiality of organizational resources.

Why join the Los Angeles chapter of the ISSA?

* Great opportunities for networking and education at our monthly lunches.
* Fantastic savings on training, including CISSP, CISM, ITIL, Risk Assessment, Certified Ethical Hacker and Information Technology and the Law this year.
* Make a difference through our Community Outreach Program."
Frequency/Location: Monthly Luncheons(?) / Les Freres Taix French Restaurant, 1911 West Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90026
Cost: "LA & other ISSA chapter members - with reservations: FREE. LA & other ISSA chapter members - without reservations: $25. Non-members - with reservation: $25. Non-members - without reservations: $30". "General Membership $95.00/year, plus chapter dues (if applicable)" Chapter dues seem to be frequently below $50.
Review: None
Added 12/7/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Marina Pacifica Job Club
Sites: linkedin.com/groups?gid=1948399
Self-description: "Job seekers in the Los Angeles and Orange County areas meet weekly to network, exchange ideas and best practice, share stories and provide support. Recruiters, Corporate HR Professionals, Motivational speakers, etc are guests and encouraged to provide input. Only active job seekers should apply to this group."
Frequency/Location: "Private club meetings are held on alternate Monday mornings at the Marina Pacifica Clubhouse from 10:00 - 11:30. Must RSVP."
Cost: Free
Review: While I haven't made it to any of the luncheons, I have been to a couple of the joint evening networking events they've done with Pink Slip Mixers. Expect a number of speakers (sometimes even myself!), raffles, cash bar, sometimes complimentary light appetizers, and of course plenty of networking.
Added 12/7/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Happy Hour Mafia
Sites: facebook.com/group.php?gid=85363157401
Self-description: "Hello!?! Look at the name of the group. You'll figure it out. Basically this is about getting large groups of cool people together for a fun time. Events take place whenever the muse inspires us. There is no other agenda. So... enjoy.

Want more details? Well, so far we have four kinds of events, 2 of which are "live" and 2 of which are in development.

1. Happy Hours. Open to all Happy Hour Mafia members. Always take place on a Friday at 6 pm, at semi-random intervals, and always at unusual and interesting venues.

2. Field Trips. Also open to all Happy Hour Mafia members. These are non-sleep-over events at some interesting location, venue or activity. E.g., horse races, concerts, bowling, hiking, etc..."
Frequency/Location: Roughly monthly
Cost: Free
Review: Gordon Einstein leads this as a more social event as compared to his other group, NoNameTags (also in my list), which is more business. I've been to a few HHM "happy hour" events (but not the "field trips") and they vary from very social to a mix. At the last event, I traded a few business cards. They are well attended, ages from 20's to 50's. Dress is upscale. Venues are usually clubs with a DJ - it can be loud, dancing may occur. Usually there's a photographer, and watch for Fantastic Fig doing card tricks (and he's good!) Gordon is affable and will introduce you to others once you introduce yourself.
Added 12/7/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: #140Conf: The State of Now
Sites: meetup.com/140conf
Self-description: "An opportunity to discuss the emerging Real-Time Internet and the effects on business. A monthly gathering for friends of #140conf to get together and discuss issues of the day."
Frequency/Location: About monthly, across multiple cities
Cost: Free
Review: Events seem to begin and end with networking, with some presentations in the middle.
Added 12/7/09 by Todd Zebert

Networking & Social Media Job Search Webinars, Teleconferences and Podcasts

No updates this week.

SoCal Educational Networking & Job Search Organizations

Have you checked out Classmates? (Re-)Connect with your K-12 and College classmates. A word of warning though, others and myself find they have bad customer service (email "spam", customer service, etc.)

Other & Indirect Job Networking Opportunities

• Professional Associations, Groups, Societies & Events.
• Online Professional "Social" Networking & Branding.
• Outplacement Firms.
• YOUR Previous Job - Alumni "groups".
• More Social Ideas - Network Everywhere.
• InterNations - the Network for Expatriates and Global Minds. I've signed up but haven't used the site. Like XING perhaps?
• BlackPlanet "the largest Black community online" also with Professional and Job sections. Also owned by the same parent company is MiGente the "largest Latino-American community online."
• Other International/Multinational social networking sites include Bebo (Europe), Orkut (popular in Brazil & India), Piczo, StudiVZ (German-speaking mostly, but sister sites for other European countries).
• Volunteer - Network while doing "good".
• Other - keep your mind open.

Job Search Resources Weekly Update - 11/23/09

Weekly updates! Please let me know if know of other items to add, or if you have any feedback on events.

Sorry I missed last week; this week is extra value (same low cost).

Holiday Season Networking Advice
As the holidays fast approach, I’ve notice there are far fewer formal networking events out there. They have mostly been replaced by friends, family and other social networking events. Do not miss these opportunities! While you might not meet as many new people, this is the perfect opportunity to reinforce or even reestablish a connection with someone you even know.

Some tips:

• Stay professional
• Stay positive
• Be thankful
• Don’t get stressed – balance your personal commitments and job search
• Engage new people despite perhaps limited opportunities

Some venues:

• Friends and family occasions
• Religious events
• Charity / Volunteer events
• Your previous job’s events – if you’re on good terms and they’re open to it, join them!
• Alumni events

2 updates and 14 new in SoCal Networking Event Organizations.

1 special free event and 1 update in Networking & Social Media Job Search Webinars, Teleconferences and Podcasts.

New ideas in SoCal Educational Networking & Job Search Organizations.

New items and updates in Other & Indirect Job Networking Opportunities

SoCal Networking Event Organizations

Name: Media Leaders (LA)
Review: I attended towards the en of their event at Bodega Wine Bar in Santa Monica. There were upward of 100 people earlier and still a couple dozen when I arrived. The venue was tough for an event like this as it's very dimly lit and very noisy. Attire was mostly casual dressy. The attendees were broadly in "media", friendly, and interesting. They also have groups in Austin and San Francisco.
Updated 11/23/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Women At Work - Pasadena Career Center
Review: They offer a variety of for-fee services from office equipment usage to career and resume counseling. The Networking group is free. A friend recently attended one of their job fairs. She reports that it was small, limited and included insurance sales, colleges/universities, health/elder care, and a couple others. This is typical of the job fairs I've seen of late.
Updated 11/23/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Step Up Women's Network
Sites: http://www.suwn.org/, LA Calendar
Self-description: "Step Up Women's Network is a national non-profit membership organization dedicated to strengthening community resources for women and girls. Through teen empowerment programs for underserved girls, women's health education and advocacy, professional mentorship and social networking opportunities, we educate and activate our members to ensure that women and girls have the tools they need to create a better future.

Step Up is on the cutting edge of women's social philanthropy. The organization's strength stems from our members' ability to leverage their personal and professional skills and relationships to give back to the community. Our programs are designed to engage women in a way that inspires a life-long commitment to responsible, philanthropic involvement encompassing hands-on volunteer work and leadership opportunities. "Invest, Involve and Inspire" is our motto."
Frequency/Location: Varies
Cost: $50 for yearly basic "Insider" membership.
Review: None. They also have chapters in Chicago and New York.
Added 11/23/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Girls in Tech
Sites: girlsintech.net, twitter.com/gitweet, facebook.com/group.php?gid=2507318683, linkedin.com/groups?home=&gid=1768837
Self-description: "Girls in Tech is a social network enterprise focused on the engagement, education and empowerment of like-minded, professional, intelligent and influential women in technology. As young women with the capacity to inspire, we made it our personal desire and passion to create and sustain an organization that focuses on the collaboration, promotion, growth and success of women in the technology sector.

Created in February of 2007, ‘Girls in Tech’ (GIT) was founded by Adriana Gascoigne. GIT and was born out of a need to provide a place for women to cultivate ideas around their careers and business concepts involving technology.

Girls in Tech aims to offer a variety of resources and tools for women to supplement and further enhance their professional careers and aspirations in technology. Some of these resources include, educational workshops and lectures, networking functions, round table discussions, conferences, social engagements, and recruitment events."
Frequency/Location: Varies
Cost: Varies
Review: They have chapters in most major US cities plus a couple International ones.
Added 11/23/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Business Referral Exchange (BRE)
Sites: http://www.brenetwork.com/
Self-description: "Business Referral Exchange (BRE) is a professional organization of men and women whose purpose is the exchange of qualified business referrals to its members. BRE meets every Tuesday morning, providing the opportunity to develop lasting, beneficial business relationships with highly motivated individuals.

Join us for a complimentary breakfast and tell our group of business professionals how we can provide you with business referrals!

Building Client Base

The best way to get new business is through referrals. Have breakfast with a group of professionals once a week and network your way to a stable, high-quality client base."
Frequency/Location: Every Tuesday morning 7a-8:30a / Coco's Restaurant, 14971 Holt Ave., Tustin, CA
Cost: Free
Review: None
Added 11/23/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Business Referral Network (BRN)
Sites: Search for local Business Referral Networks (BRN)
Self-description: Varies
Frequency/Location: Varies / Varies
Cost: Varies
Review: None. I can't locate a "parent" organization for the local chapters - perhaps the are independent?
Added 11/23/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: California Staffing Professionals
Sites: http://www.cspnet.org/, Inland Empire Chapter, Los Angeles Chapter, Orange County Chapter, San Diego Chapter
Self-description: "The California Staffing Professionals (CSP) is a non-profit membership organization which provides products and services to its members within the staffing services industry."
Frequency/Location: Varies / Varies
Cost: Annual dues start at $225 but perhaps some events may be open to the public or as a guest a member
Review: None
Added 11/23/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Women in Technology International (WITI)
Sites: witi.com, facebook.com/group.php?gid=14044585166, twitter.com/witi09, Local Networks in California
Self-description: "WITI's Mission

WITI's mission is to empower women worldwide to achieve unimagined possibilities and transformations through technology, leadership and economic prosperity.

WITI's Goals

1. Provide a platform of connections, resources and opportunities
2. Transform corporate and media perceptions of women
3. Create a pipeline of women to fill leadership positions in corporate America
4. Demonstrate that advancing women directly contributes to the prosperity of all
5. Influence top leaders in government, academia and industry to recognize the purchasing power of women
6. Encourage girls and young women to choose business and technology careers

WITI Networks

WITI Professional Network
For professional women who consider technology central to their businesses, careers and professions, WITI Networks provide amazing connections, resources and opportunities - all in a supportive environment that includes men who champion WITI's mission.

WITI Corporate Network
For organizations that want to reach decision makers, hire "star" employees and increase their bottom line by tapping into the power of WITI's products and services. Businesses benefit by recognizing the that women's leadership skills and purchasing power are the greatest economic force at work in the American economy today.

WITI Global Executive Network (GEN)
For VP and C-level women, this network enables them to influence change, collaborate with peers, and become role models and mentors.

WITI Student Network
To support the women of tomorrow, WITI has formed this network for college and university students on the cusp of new careers and ready to be mentored and inspired! "
Frequency/Location: Varies / Varies
Cost: Annual membership starts at $250. Some events are open to non-members.
Review: None. They have chapters in most major US cities, and a number of them around the world.
Added 11/23/09 by Todd Zebert

Name:Taco Tuesday Career Networking
Sites: groups.yahoo.com/group/TacoTuesday
Self-description: "Taco Tuesday Career Networking group of South Orange County, California.

This list offers an online community for sharing leads, contacts, industry information and career events. I hope you find this list useful - any comments welcome!

This list is for job search and networking purposes only."
Frequency/Location: NA
Cost: NA
Review: They maintain an email list and calendar with job and event opportunities.
Added 11/23/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: eWomen Network
Sites: http://www.ewomennetwork.com/, twitter.com/eWomenNetwork, facebook.com/ewomennetwork, Events Calendar -- Inland Empire, Events Calendar -- Los Angeles, Events Calendar -- Orange County, Events Calendar -- San Diego
Self-description: "This is the #1 resource for connecting and promoting women and their businesses on both a local and global scale.

Here you can post your own personal profile page with all your contact information.

Tell your own story in your own words and display three graphic images of your choice.

Accessed by our fast and easy search engine, under "Connect to Resources, Businesses and Members," this profile page will be your direct contact with all the members and guests of eWomenNetwork.com

Not only can they find you, but also you can find them. Search by name or by business category from our entire membership.

eWomenNetwork.com is unique! It is unlike any other listing web site or business leads group you have ever encountered."
Frequency/Location: Varies / Varies
Cost: Membership is $290 yearly. Some events open to guests.
Review: None.
Added 11/23/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: FORE Networking
Sites: http://www.forenetworking.net/, www.facebook.com/pages/FORE-Networking/35246911849
Self-description: ""It's great to meet you!" That's what our participants hear when attending our events.

FORE Networking® is the world’s fastest growing member only golf networking organization for business professionals. Offering structured events enabling opportunities, we bring people together out on the golf course.

In the past year alone, our events have been attended by thousands of business professionals who all share a common interest: GOLF.

Our members pass sales leads, business referrals and golf connections to each other while making introductions to prospective clients on the golf course.

Golf networking has always been a tool in business, now it is finally offered in an environment specifically designed for business.

Find a local event in your area. Attend an event if you are interested in:

* Playing more golf and cold calling less.
* Meeting business peers who share a common interest.
* Networking with a very targeted demographic."
Frequency/Location: Varies / Varies
Cost: Varies
Review: They appear to have local chapters in Irvine and Central OC. This is an interesting idea!
Added 11/23/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: The Professional Videographers Network (PVN) - Southern California
Sites: pvn.org
Self-description: "The Professional Videographers Network (PVN) is an organization of professional videographers, producers, and editors in Southern California. Our members provide services in event, commercial and industrial video production.

We meet monthly in Irvine to discuss issues of interest to our members and keep up with the latest technology. The meetings provide a forum for education, networking and the sharing of ideas, opinions and jobs."
Frequency/Location: "2nd Wednesday for breakfast" / Unknown
Cost: Membership is $120 yearly. At the door payment is available also.
Review: None
Added 11/23/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: South Orange County Women’s Network Group (socwng)
Sites: socwng.org
Self-description: "The mission of the South Orange County Women’s Network Group is to build relationships and provide business education which, in turn, will create networking and business referral opportunities resulting in business development as well as to help those less fortunate in our community through service work and/or donations."

They have 2 different networking groups:
Frequency/Location: A.BSOLUTE M.OMENTUM Group, "2nd and 4th Wednesday each month", "9:00am - 10:00am, arrive by 8:30am to order breakfast" / Carrow's Restaurant, 23952 Avenida De La Carlota, Laguna Hills, CA 92653
Frequency/Location: P.ROFESSIONAL M.ATTERS Group, "2nd and 4th Wednesday each month", "11:30am - 12:30pm, arrive by 11:00am to order lunch" / Lone Star Steak House, 24231 Avenida De La Carlota, Laguna Hills, CA 92653
Cost: Annual membership is $100
Review: None
Added 11/23/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Team Women
Sites: http://www.teamwomen.com/,
Self-description:"Team Women opened in January, 2005 with the first meeting held in Murietta in Riverside County, CA. Since that time we have opened more than 100 chapters and have enrolled over 1000 members. We are committed to being the Number One Women Only, leads based networking group in the world and we are well on our way.

Each Team Women Chapter is limited to a total of thirty members. This is enough women to provide plenty of business leads for each member, but is intimate enough that lasting relationships can be built and each member has plenty of opportunities to promote her business. Each chapter is limited to one person per core profession so each member is ensured exclusivity.

Team Women is about celebrating successes of each member and working together to create more prosperous businesses for everyone. The purpose of Team Women is for each member to provide highly qualified referrals to other members in their chapter. A qualified lead is one in which the person being referred is expecting to hear from the Team Women member and has provided all of his/her contact information.

Each Team Women Chapter meets for one hour every other week. Local chapters have morning, mid-day and evening meetings on various days to accommodate everyone ’s schedules."
Frequency/Location: "every other week" / Various across most US cities.
Cost: Annual membership $269.
Review: None.
Added 11/23/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Technology Professional Association of Orange County
Sites: http://www.4tpa.org/
Self-description: "The Technology Professionals Association (TPA) is a not-for-profit networking organization association serving technology professionals, including independent dealers, value-added resellers, systems integrators, manufacturers and distributors in the business equipment and systems industry.

Vision & Mission Statement
TPA helps members grow and successfully manage their businesses through networking, partnering and education. Our missions is to build an organization that supports the growth and successful management of information technology member companies by providing educational programs and facilitating their strategic partnering." "...networking followed by dinner and a guest speaker. Meet our members and guests, and find potential new business and partners."
Frequency/Location: "We meet the first Tuesday of each month from 6:30pm to 8:00pm" / Doubletree Club Hotel, 7 Hutton Centre Drive, Santa Ana, CA
Cost: "Meeting dues are $30, and includes dinner"
Review: None
Added 11/23/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: The Connectors Network
Sites: http://www.theconnectorsnetwork.com/
Self-description: "“The Connector’s Network presents a new way to network. We focus on having members help one another build their business through creating connections.”

ALL Orange County professionals, are invited to make connections and generate business.

Debbie Lewandowski, networking and marketing consultant with Spotlite, and Catherine Miale, publicist are now hosting the “Connectors’ Network” luncheon at Newport Rib Company in Ladera Ranch."
Frequency/Location: "meetings have been placed on hold until the first of 2010."
Cost: Pay for your own lunch
Review: None
Added 11/23/09 by Todd Zebert

Networking & Social Media Job Search Webinars, Teleconferences and Podcasts

Special Note: Hill's Career Consulting Services FREE 45 minute "Interviewing 101" Teleclass
November 30th from 5-5:45pm (PT). Register jhccs.com/Teleconferences.html

Name: The Link System - Free Fridays Networking Tips
Review: I attended at the beginning of Nov and it seems to have limited attendence (about 2 or 3) which isn't really a problem for a teleconference. Mindy spoke about general networking tips ("Don't bring resumes to business networkig events" which I agree with completely), venues for networking, and about her forthcoming book. There was plenty of time for questions.
Updated 11/23/09 by Todd Zebert

SoCal Educational Networking & Job Search Organizations

Get social - network everywhere. Find an event - something you're interested in - suddenly you and the other attendee's have something in common, and a place to start a conversation.

• USC's Arts and Events Calendar
• UCLA's "Happenings" Events Calendar
• Caltech Today Calendar

Other & Indirect Job Networking Opportunities

• Professional Associations, Groups, Societies & Events.
• Online Professional "Social" Networking & Branding.
• http://www.naymz.com/: very similar to LinkedIn, but can't find a specific events link. I just started using it. They stress recommendations, reputation, and RepScore "evaluates your reputation versus others on the network." There's an $8/mon Premium Subscription available.
• Outplacement Firms.
• YOUR Previous Job - Alumni "groups".
• More Social Ideas - Network Everywhere.
• http://www.eventbrite.com/ hosts general event listings. Search by city or zip.
• Volunteer - Network while doing "good".
• Other - keep your mind open.
• Read your local business journals, such as the Los Angeles Business Journal or San Diego Business Journal or San Ferando Valley Business Jornal to find out abut business events, where the job market is going, who's hiring, and say on top of your target companies' news.
• California EDD (Employment Development Department) Jobs and Training check for networking events and job fairs and training opportunties.

Job Search Resources Weekly Update - 11/9/09

Weekly updates! Please let me know if know of other items to add, or if you have any feedback on events.

A Special Notice:
Tomorrow, Tuesday, November 10, 2009, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
“Honor a Hero Hire a Vet” Job and Resource Fair, by the United States Veterans Initiative and the State of California Employment Development Department (EDD).
Los Angeles Marriott-Los Angeles Airport Hotel
5855 West Century Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA
"Veterans: learn valuable information about available services and meet employers. Numerous industries will have representatives available for information and possible interviews."

I don't normally post specific events, but this is a huge event with lots of press coverage - my understanding is its open to everyone. I'll be there helping out PinkSlipMixers and McGyver.tv/Workforce Creative as the Social Media Sponsors - drop by and say hello. We'll be "conducting Live Broadcast shout-out interviews on the Pink Slip Mixer, Hot Pink Carpet VIP entrance ..." Watch Live! Or better yet, get there early (the last event had something like 5,000 job seekers!)

Regular Updates:
4 Updates and 5 New in SoCal Networking Event Organizations.

1 Update in Networking & Social Media Job Search Webinars, Teleconferences and Podcasts.

New comments in SoCal Educational Networking & Job Search Organizations.

2 New in Other & Indirect Job Networking Opportunities New Section as of Last Week!

SoCal Networking Event Organizations

Name: iLearning Lab
Sites: www.ilearninglab.com, twitter.com/ilearninglab
Updated 11/9/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Convergence Technology Council (CTC)
Sites: thectcnetwork.org, twitter.com/thectcnetwork
Updated 11/9/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Pink Slip Mixers 2.0
Sites: pinkslipmixers.com,www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=23045261698, twitter search
Self-description: "Our Pink Slip Mixers are about hundreds of professional, mid- to upper-level executives who are (might be) victims of the "economic downturn" of 2008. Our parties are about banding together, networking and bonding with the recently "Pinked". We will share our experiences of why we were let off, what companies are hiring, and the "buzz words" that specific hiring managers want to hear.

Aside from the usual imbibing, commiseration and fun that every pink slip party brings, headhunters, direct-hire companies, and recruiting firms will also on-hand to learn a little bit more about what you do. Maybe you'll meet a new contact, or find a new job!

When you come in the door, you'll be given a color-coded name tag that identifies you as a job seeker of a specific industry -- or a recruiter or Hiring Manager of a direct hire company -- so you can network with the people that matter to you!"
Frequency/Location: Multiple times a month / Pasadena, Southbay, Long Beach, Westwood, San Diego, and others regional and national locations.
Cost: Free!
Review: Recommended. Hosts networking events around the country. Name tags, speakers, streaming video and twitter feeds. They promote engaging in social networking during the events.
Updated 11/9/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Linked !n Long Beach
Review: This event was well attended (upwards of a 100 my rough estimate) and staffed. Debra Bradfield created and hosted this event, along with some others. Along with a few vendor tables, there was the "Connection Station" where attendees would be connected together if they expressed interest in each other's industries. Each attendee also received a contact of sheet of all the attendees' names, industry, and contact info. Recommended.
Updated 11/9/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Networking For Professionals (NFP)
Sites: www.networkingforprofessionals.com, Industry Insights Blog, Success Square/Coaching Blog, Events Blog, City Chat Blog
Self-description: "Get Connected.

Networking For Professionals is a dynamic business networking organization that powerfully combines online business networking and real life events.

Regular business networking events include our signature: Shakers and Stirrers Business Networking Mixer, High Speed Networking, and Power Lunch. Upcoming business networking events are currently scheduled for New York, Long Island, Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Scottsdale Miami and Ft. Lauderdale with more locations soon to follow.

By joining Networking For Professionals, and posting your member profile, you'll be able to network online with other members at anytime, 24/7. You can include a photo, articles you've written, and even a video in your profile. You'll be able to bookmark other members profiles, create contact lists, an Address Book, and much more! You'll also have access to the list of attendees from all the past events you've signed up for.

We put you in touch with serious and successful professionals online and face-to-face, expanding your business opportunities and accelerating the way you network. And nothing is more important to your business than networking! "

Membership is not guaranteed, "Thank you. We will review your profile. If you are accepted for NFP membership you will receive a welcome email soon."
Frequency/Location: New York, Long Island, Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Scottsdale Miami and Ft. Lauderdale
Cost: "$20 per month in NY, NJ and CT and $10 per month in GA, AZ and IL", free in other areas (including CA!)
Review: None
Added 11/8/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Caltech/MIT Enterprise Forum
Sites: www.entforum.caltech.edu, twitter.com/CaltechMITForum
Self-description: " About the Caltech/MIT Enterprise Forum

The Caltech/MIT Enterprise forum is a joint venture of Caltech's Industrial Relations Center, Caltech’s Office of Technology Transfer, the Caltech Alumni Association and the MIT Alumni Association.

Mission

The mission of the Caltech/MIT Enterprise Forum is to encourage the growth and success of technology-based entrepreneurial ventures in Southern California.
History

The Forum grew out of a series of workshops conducted by the MIT Alumni Association in Cambridge and New York in 1971. Formed in 1984, the Forum is a joint venture of the Caltech Industrial Relations Center and the Alumni Associations of Caltech and MIT.
Scope

Through its monthly programs, the Forum provides advice, support, education and networking opportunities to technology-based ventures in the Southern California area.

Programs address a range of key entrepreneurial issues from financing, marketing and business planning to executive leadership and staffing. Case presentations feature companies in emerging technology areas reviewing their business plans with expert panelists. Special sessions examine new entrepreneurial opportunities, in such areas as life sciences, medical technologies, energy, software, communications and entertainment technologies."
Frequency/Location: Monthly / Baxter Lecture Hall, Caltech campus
Cost: Varies? Approx $40 on-line
Review: Not exactly a networking event, but if you're in the science and & technology realm, it seems like a great place to network.
Added 11/8/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: The Association of Professional Consultants
Sites:
Self-description: "The Association of Professional Consultants (APC) is the premier resource for businesses and consultants. Founded in 1979, APC helps organizations find the perfect consultant for your interim project or on-going engagement.

Our member consultants offer the experience, qualifications, and certifications to help you with your next assignment. Use our free consultant referral service to see how we can help you find an expert in one of many areas including coaching, compliance consulting, finance, human resources, information technology (IT), management, manufacturing, marketing and advertising, organizational development, sales and business development, strategy, training, and many other areas of expertise."
Frequency/Location: "monthly [] on the third Thursday of each month." / The Doubletree Club Hotel, 7 Hutton Centre Dr., Santa Ana, CA 92707
Cost: "Members: Before pre-registration deadline: $35, After deadline or walkin: $40. Guests: Before pre-registration deadline: $45, After deadline or walkin: $50 "
Review: "networking and educational events"
Added 11/8/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: The Latino Professional Network (LPN) Los Angeles
Sites: www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=150448244304, www.lpnonline.com, www.youtube.com/lpnonlinedotcom
Self-description: "The Latino Professional Network, founded in Los Angeles in September of 1999, stands as one of the largest and preeminent associations of Latino professionals, community leaders, and students in the country. Since its inception, the LPN's guiding precept and goal was to galvanize and unify the ever- growing community of Latino Professionals in the United States. The LPN also seeks to harness the skills, education, resources, and passion of Latino Leaders to assist the next generation of leaders and support the community at large. The LPN has also constantly strived to build bridges between all the communities that contribute to our collective diversity.

LPN Networking Events are born from the philosophy that meaningful professional relationships, friendships, and dialogue are engendered in fun, lively, and relaxed setting. With such themes as "Havana Nights", " A Summer Night in Sevilla" and "Una Noche en Guadalajara", these events attract between 900 and 1500 professionals nearly every month."
Frequency/Location: Varies
Cost: Varies
Review: I've heard great things about this organization.
Added 11/8/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Referral Exchange Network (REN)
Sites: www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=60238121891
Self-description: "* Would you like more blazing-hot leads for your business?

* Would you like to know, and be known, by power-players in the community?

* Are you sick of giving referrals to others and not getting anything back?

* Are you tired of going to networking groups being harassed by folks who just want to pitch you?

If you said YES to all of the above then come join are group!!!

Referral Exchange Network is a rapidly-expanding group of business professionals who are sick and tired of attending networking meetings that suck our time and end up with dead leads. We believe that too many people let their business take over their life. The whole point of business is to make the life you want to live possible--so why wait to start enjoying it? We are dedicated to helping business owners grow both personally and professionally. You will network and meet dynamic business owners like yourself who are willing to share and refer one another. Our groups are designed and structured to set you up in an environment where you finally get to WIN!!"
Frequency/Location: Varies / Varies
Cost: Varies
Review: None
Added 11/8/09 by Todd Zebert

Networking & Social Media Job Search Webinars, Teleconferences and Podcasts

Name: Omnikron - Competing for Your Future - Robin Borough
Sites: omnikron.typepad.com/careers/links.html, twitter.com/robinborough
Self-description: "Career management has gotten so complex - The new job landscape can seem disheartening.

Don't worry, we've got answers - Solutions that Can Turn Things Around Quickly!

Session 1: Build Your Audience & Prospecting Plan
Session 2: Winning Resume(s) & Compelling Sound-bytes
Session 3: Interview Finesse – Real Students

FREE TOOLS: Career Map, Career Plan, Career Blueprint

Things You'll Master by Attending this Career Management Series:
• Using the Internet for Success – Turning the Abyss into Your Best Research Friend
• Know the RIGHT way to create a great resume, every time
• Brilliant Job Search Strategies that outpace your competition
• Optimize Social Networks
• Find Hot Job Skills and Hot Job Markets
• Master Interview Brilliance"
Frequency: Should be repeating monthly or so.
Cost: Free
Review: This was an excellent 3-part webinar, recommended. Robin and her team covered a lot of ground, had great visual material, and provided free tools. They also had Q&A during the presentation, and if they didn't get to a question, they answered it via email afterwards.
Updated 11/9/09 by Todd Zebert

SoCal Educational Networking & Job Search Organizations

Even though you away from your school, if you live in greater Los Angeles or any other large metropolitan area, your school may have an alumni group here. Check your school's alumni site for those "remote" alumni groups. Or, start one!

Other & Indirect Job Networking Opportunities

New sections of last week on:

• Professional Associations, Groups, Societies & Events.
• Online Professional "Social" Networking & Branding.
• Outplacement Firms.
• YOUR Previous Job - Alumni "groups".
• More Social Ideas - Network Everywhere.
• www.groupsite.com Find a social network (or create your own) for almost anything imaginable. Somewhat similar to Facebook and Ning.
• www.facebook.com of course, search events, or view your friend's events.
• Volunteer - Network while doing "good".

Job Search Resources Weekly Update - 11/2/09

Weekly updates! Please let me know if know of other items to add, or if you have any feedback on events.

1 Update and 6 New for SoCal Networking Event Organizations.

4 New for Networking & Social Media Job Search Webinars, Teleconferences and Podcasts.

Updates for SoCal Educational Networking & Job Search Organizations.

NEW! Other & Indirect Job Networking Opportunities.

SoCal Networking Event Organizations

Name: XING Community Los Angeles
Review: I was able to attend a meeting last week and met some great people. There were a dozen or so in attendance, and we all sat around a long table and had drinks and desserts. Conversations were in small localized groups and people shifted about now and again. I learned a bit more about XING, which I pronounced "zing", but others refer to as "x-ing" or "crossing" - the later two are more correct. The members are primarily European expats as XING started in Germany and is popular in Europe. Many seem fluent in more than one language, and international business was a recurring topic. You'll need a free membership to Xing to see the details on the community page
Updated 11/2/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Heart Link Network
Sites: http://www.theheartlinknetwork.com/, California Locatons (mostly online) Networking Community
Self-description: "The Heart Link Network® is women’s networking at its best. Between The Heart Link Network’s®, over 120 locations in the US, Canada and Australia, our “high touch” women’s networking events are enjoyed by all who attend them. Along with our “high touch” events, we have a “high tech” online women’s networking community called The Heart Alliance which allows women around the world to easily network with one another online." and "The HLN meeting begins with a light meal and socializing. Then the formal networking begins where every participant gets 3 minutes to showcase and distribute literature. There are door prizes and fun for everyone..."
Frequency/Location: Monthly / See links above for locations
Cost: $20/meeting seems typical
Review: Contact an Area Coordinator to RSVP. Like Le Tip (and others): "Please remember, events are industry exclusive. Only one person may represent your industry." "Many women come to the event from work so attire varies from business casual to comfortable."
Added 10/26/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: The Manhattan Beach Young Professionals (MBYP)
Sites: mbyp.memberlodge.org, twitter.com/MBYP
Self-description: "A synergy of entrepreneurs and envisioneers created to shake and stir your business juices! We are here to help you network, fuse and mingle with other movers and shakers in the business community. Grow your business, make new friends, build relationships and learn how to energize your future by getting involved, participating and being active in MBYP. "
Frequency/Location: About Monthly
Cost: $5 for Manhattan Beach Chamber Members, $10 for Non-Chamber Members
Review: Mixers and other social cultural sport event group attendence.
Added 10/26/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Worthwhile Referral Sources (WRS) - AKA Women’s Referral Service
Sites: worthwhilereferralsources.com, Traditional, Networking, Neighborhood and Rapid Mixers
Self-description: "Are you looking for a networking event that promotes structured networking? Just reconnected with Worthwhile Referral Sources (WRS), also known as Women’s Referral Service when it was first started by Nancy Sardella 30 years ago. WRS stands out as a place to network because of the “rules” Sardella put in place that by and large prevent someone with commission breath from cornering you at a WRS event.

WRS is billed as the “Network that Actually Works” because members are discouraged from giving each other unsolicited sales pitches. They are taught to generate referrals for other members by applying the “WRS proven networking method”: Ask others “What types of referrals are you looking for?” If the other person neglects to ask the same question, say “Are you interested in hearing what types of referrals I am looking for?” At every WRS event, cards are left on the table to remind members and guests, this is how business is done here.

WRS publishes two referral guides that members are encouraged to distribute throughout SoCal, the Yellow Book with members and pre-screened nonmembers listed, and the Blue Book, a list of members only. Members are encouraged to use the services provided by individuals within these books, and to recommend at least two other WRS members to people they know per month.

Groups meet for breakfast, lunch and dinner, one time each month in a specific location. WRS also has exclusive chapters like other traditional leads groups with only one person per category."
Frequency/Location: Varies / Varies - See above
Cost: Varies
Review: None
Added 10/26/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: LEADS Club
Sites: http://www.leadsclub.com/, Greater LA Clubs, Inland Empire, San Bernardino and Riverside Counties, San Diego and Orange Counties
Self-description: " * The purpose of Leads Club is to assist you in getting good business referrals that will expand your business success.
* Leads Club is dedicated to maximizing the use of your time and resources to get good business referrals. To accomplish this goal, Leads Club uses a method of spaced, timed, repetition of information.
* Leads Club is not in competition with other group or clubs, nor are we a social club. We are an advertising service dedicated to increasing Members' business success. "
" * Leads Club Chapters meet once a week, at breakfast or lunch, traditionally on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday.
* The meeting time is one hour and 15 minutes (75 minutes).
* Leads Club Chapters meet up to 50 weeks a year. Chapters generally take off the weeks over the December holidays. Chapters generally do not meet when a national holiday falls on their meeting day, for example, Thursday Chapters do not meet on Thanksgiving (USA). "
"Each Member gives two 30 second promotionals, one at the beginning and one at the end of each meeting. Members are also scheduled, on a rotational basis, to give an in-depth, 10 minute presentation at least five times per year (the total number of 10 minute presentations you give each year depends on the size of your Chapter). "
Frequency/Location: "" * Leads Club Chapters meet once a week, at breakfast or lunch, traditionally on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday.
* The meeting time is one hour and 15 minutes (75 minutes)."
Cost: "There is a one-time $95 registration fee and a $30 per month Membership fee."
Review: Like BNI, Le Tip, etc.
Added 10/26/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: TEAM Referral Network
Sites: http://www.teamreferralnetwork.com/, Chapter Listings (mostly CA)
Self-description: "You don't have to hire a sales team to grow your business. You can be part of the most effective referral networking TEAM in your community

TEAM Referral Network turns success-oriented business people into a strong team of networking professionals who work together to build their businesses by referral. Building a business can be challenging and expensive. Why tough it out alone? Relationship marketing is a better, smarter way of doing business. TEAM Referral Network members know that working as a TEAM,
Together Everyone Achieves More." "We are an exclusive referral organization, only one person per business category is allowed to be a member of a TEAM chapter. "
Frequency/Location: Weekly / Varies - see above
Cost: "The application fee is $50 and annual dues are only $275"
Review: None, but similar to BNI, LEADS, etc.
Added 10/26/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Single Mom Ventures / Empowering Single Moms
Sites: http://www.singlemomventures.com/, http://www.meetup.com/empoweringsinglemoms/
Self-description: "We are looking for unemployed and struggling single mothers who want to make a difference

These are challenging times. Women all over the country are clamoring for resources to assist in pursuing their dream.

Single Mom Ventures is an original forum where real, single mothers from all over the country, get togher and discuss discuss important (and yes, relevent) everyday issues) shair their daily, no-holds-barred opinion about life, careers, business and friends!

If you are an unemployed single mother who is overwhelmed with bills, family and life challenges, we're here to help. Our forums are interactive and you are encouraged to participate and take on an active role in one of our monthly Single Mom Discussions as they are broadcast LIVE all over the country.

Once a month, the most proactive single mother will be featured on the site as we closely monitor your progress week by week, backed up by panel of experts who can provide you with the resources you need to get your life back on track."
Frequency/Location: Monthly / LA (then nationwide?)
Cost: Free
Review: None
Added 10/27/09 by Todd Zebert

Networking & Social Media Job Search Webinars, Teleconferences and Podcasts

Name: The Link System - Free Fridays Networking Tips
Sites: thelinksystem.com/2009/10/10/free-fridays-networking-tips
Self-description: "THE LINK SYSTEM® is a four step curriculum that teaches how to pre-qualify and leverage a new contact into a lucrative business alliance. We call those relationships “Links”….“Links to Success”. A well-cultivated Link can open doors to prospects and opportunities far beyond that of a single client. From picking the event, qualifying the Link Prospect, to structuring the Link Relationship, The Link System® guides the student through the relationship-building process."
Frequency/Location: "You never have to pre register…just call this number every Friday morning" 8:30PT / Dial-in:(712) 432-1630 Access Code: 420322#
Cost: Free
Review: None
Added 10/28/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: The Job Search Guy - Free Resume Writing Teleseminars
Sites: http://www.jobsearchguy.com/store/programs/teleseminars/resume-writing/, twitter.com/Joeturner2
Self-description: "Workshop Highlights:

* Learn the three major obstacles your resume must overcome and how to deal with each one…
* Discover the most important question most resumes don’t answer and how you should address this in yours…
* Most successful corporations and products have a brand. Find out why you need one too, and how it will help move your resume to the top of the “to call” list…
* Discover how to avoid screenouts, those little hidden messages you’re putting on your resume that shout REJECTION!"
Frequency/Location: Monthly on some Thursday - check site / 1:30 PM Pacific time, 4:30 PM Eastern.
Cost: Free
Review: These are pretty good. I've listened to two of them. He's heavy on "branding". Expect a sales pitch and in follow-up emails.
Added 10/28/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: The Job Search Guy - “10 Tips for Job Seekers over 50″
Sites: http://www.jobsearchguy.com/store/programs/teleseminars/job-seekers-over-50/, twitter.com/Joeturner2
Self-description: "As the Job Search Guy™, I’ll share 10 specific tips that can help older* workers score a job faster in this tight economy.

* Any worker over the age of 50. That includes me.

Here’s Why You Need This Free Teleseminar:

*Over this past year, the economy has collapsed to create the greatest recession we’ve had since the thirties.
* Technology has exploded in this industry making most everything you know about job search either outdated or obsolete.
* As if that isn’t enough, almost every hiring manager you encounter will be younger that you are – sometimes MUCH younger. Age bias is real and you need to learn how you can counteract it.
* How will you win a job in spite of these challenges?"
Frequency/Location: Monthly on some Tuesday - check site / 1:00 PM Pacific (4:00 PM Eastern)
Cost: Free
Review: None
Added 10/28/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: The Job Search Guy - Radio Shows and Podcasts
Sites: http://www.jobsearchguy.com/radio/
Self-description:, http://www.jobsearchguy.com/podcasts/, twitter.com/Joeturner2
Cost: Free
Review: None
Added 10/28/09 by Todd Zebert

SoCal Educational Networking & Job Search Organizations

Do you know your school may have ethnic or special interest Alumni Associations? Utilize these groups for networking, and resources.

USC, for example, has Alumnae (women) organizations, the Mexican American Alumni Association (MAAA), and the Lambda LGBT Alumni Association.
UCLA, for example, has the American Indian Alumni Association, the Black Alumni Association, and the Pilipino Alumni Association.

Other & Indirect Job Networking Opportunities

New sections on:

• Professional Associations, Groups, Societies & Events.
• Online Professional "Social" Networking & Branding.
• Outplacement Firms.
• YOUR Previous Job - Alumni "groups".
• More Social Ideas - Network Everywhere.
• Volunteer - Network while doing "good".

Other & Indirect Job Networking Opportunities

This is a sister list to SoCal Networking Event Organizations and focuses on any other Job Search or Business Networking opportunities. Please let me know if know of others to add, or if you have any feedback.

Professional Associations, Groups, Societies & Events Directories:
See my details, descriptions and commentary on SoCal Networking Event Organizations.

• www.weddles.com/associations A nation-wide directory, categorized by industry/job.
• networkingeventfinders.com A nation-wide directory, broken down by state then region. View as listing or calendar. Includes specific events.
• meetingsandmixers.com/events/calendar/index.php (manually select Los Angeles, Orange Country, San Diego, or the region you're interested in) includes many chamber of commerce meetings, and business networking organizations like BNI, Le Tip, TEAM, etc.
• la.garysguide.org/events Business events in LA (and across the World)

Online Professional "Social" Networking & Branding, and Events:
Most of these sites allow the posting of a profile (resume-like), contact info, company info, and allows you to establish "connections". Some have some additional features: internal email system, "status" updates & feeds, groups, discussions, recommendations, blogging or blog feeds, jobs, and 3rd party extensions that extend functionality. Most have premium services and features. Since many offer a similar feature set, you'll have to decide where to focus your attention.

• linkedin.com and events: events.linkedin.com: The premier professional site, using self reported info, and is very "social". See also my article How do you get to 500+ LinkedIn connections? (Without being a LION?)
• www.naymz.com: very similar to LinkedIn. Looks promising but I haven't tried it yet. Can't find a specific events link.
• xing.com  and events: www.xing.com/events Also very similar to LinkedIn. I created a simple profile and also used it to get into a couple groups, but not for contacts.
• twitter.com You get a username, a brief bio, a single link, connections, and status updates.
• www.zoominfo.com This is a registry of Companies and Contacts. No social aspects, no events.
• www.jigsaw.com: This is a registry of Companies and Contacts, in which getting info costs "points", and where info is submitted by OTHERS to get "points". No social aspects, no events. I'm not a fan.

Outplacement Firms:
These companies are normally hired by your former company for a certain set of service for a certain amount of time. If this isn't a policy of theirs, ASK during your severance/layoff discussions. I've also heard that some employees have successfully convinced their former companies to extend their programs. These are just some of the common ones.

• right.com Right Management
• www.lhh.com/Careertransition/Pages/default.aspx Lee Hecht Harrison
• www.challengergray.com Challenger, Gray, & Christmas, Inc. See my write-up of their LA (and OC) events in the Networking Event Organizations section)

YOUR Previous Job - Alumni "groups":
Just because you no longer work for them, it doesn't mean they don't have anything to offer. Consider these ideas.

• Some companies offer in-house outplacement, job fairs, and other services
• LinkedIn has many Alumni groups for companies, official or unofficial
• Check Facebook (and other Social Sites, below) for Networks, Group, and Pages also!

More Social Ideas - Network Everywhere:
These are generally more social than business, but you never know. Some of these are SoCal specific, but they may have a broader reach, or at least consider them as ideas for what to look for in your area.

• flavorpill.com/losangeles "Flavorpill is an open network of culturally connected people." See their main site for other regions.
• Getty Center's Saturday Nights (formerly Fridays off the 405) Art performances, a cash bar, and an upscale crowd make these a great night "from fall to spring."
• Yahoo's "Upcoming" Events of all types across the World. Here's Los Angeles County, CA, Orange County, CA, and San Diego County, CA.
• meetup.com every type of (usually repeating) get-together you can imagine, across the world. Search within zip codes or cities, or by distance.
• socializr.com similar to Evite (but public listings) and Meetup. US only. Search by Zip code or in Los Angeles.
• www.toastmasters.org Learn public speaking and presentations (and maybe a thing or two about a thing or two).
• www.ning.com Find a social network (or create your own) for almost anything imaginable. Somewhat similar to Facebook but each network revolves around an interest. Search by keywords.
• groups.yahoo.com find or create a group around an interest, host discussions, file, pictures, etc. Search by keywords or browse categories.
• groups.google.com very similar to Yahoo groups above.
• www.groupsite.com Find a social network (or create your own) for almost anything imaginable. Somewhat similar to Facebook and Ning.
• www.facebook.com of course, search events, or view your friend's events.
• www.eventbrite.com/ hosts general event listings. Search by city or zip.
• InterNations (IN) - "the Network for Expatriates and Global Minds." It's a mostly full-service social network. I've signed up, attended two LA events (see my write-up in the Networking Event Organizations section), and meet more than a few interesting people. Besides Community Ambassador sponsored events, members may post their own. Worth checking out. By invitation (or can request own invitation).
• BlackPlanet "the largest Black community online" also with Professional and Job sections. Also owned by the same parent company is MiGente the "largest Latino-American community online."
• Other International/Multinational social networking sites include Bebo (Europe), Orkut (popular in Brazil & India), Piczo, StudiVZ (German-speaking mostly, but sister sites for other European countries).
• Mashable (The Social Media Guide)'s Events Blog - These are mostly conferences and one-off events, nationally. Or get only those items as an RSS Feed via Yahoo Pipes.
• ASMALLWORLD (ASW) - "international network of people who are connected by three degrees of separation." By limited invitation only. It's a mostly full-service social network. A mix of unique and cross-over events are posted by members; there doesn't seem to be an equivalent to IN's Community organization and events.
• French Tuesdays (FT) offers "contemporary men and women entrée to a network of successful individuals and a world of couture nightlife and entertainment. " Events (with strict attire requirements), discussions, and groups, etc. In about 20 US cities and more around the world. By invitation only; entry "Web Members" can only register for 2 events per year (but can be a guest of others).

Volunteer - Network while doing "good":
Look for a well-run organization, and a position with some responsibility. Find one that matches or complements your career. For myself, I'm reinforcing my DR/BCP skills by volunteering for CERT and Red Cross. And if you really commit, list your dedicated volunteer experience on your resume like a job!

• www.idealist.org
• www.volunteermatch.org
• servenet.org
• volunteerism.meetup.com a special Meetup portal for volunteering, with upwards of 500 groups.
• americorps.gov to matches you: "AmeriCorps offers 75,000 opportunities for adults of all ages and backgrounds to serve through a network of partnerships with local and national nonprofit groups."
• handsonnetwork.org find opportunities in "more than 250 communities across the country and 11 international locations."

Other - keep your mind open.

• Read your local business journals, such as the Los Angeles Business Journal or San Diego Business Journal or San Ferando Valley Business Jornal to find out abut business events, where the job market is going, who's hiring, and say on top of your target companies' news.
• California EDD (Employment Development Department) Jobs and Training check for networking events and job fairs and training opportunties.
• Find (and Create) Tweetups at: tweetvite.com, twtvite.com, findtweetups.com, and tweetup.meetup.com. Or try a custom Twitter Search such as search.twitter.com/search?q=+tweetup+near:%22Los%20Angeles,%20CA%22+within:25mi (modify it for your particulars).
• happn.in Find Twittered events and topics by locale by following (and taging): twitter.com/happn_in_la, twitter.com/happn_in_oc, and twitter.com/happn_in_sd

Job Search Resources Weekly Update - 10/26/09

Weekly updates! Please let me know if know of other items to add, or if you have any feedback on events.

8 New and 2 Updates for SoCal Networking Event Organizations including Neal Schaffer's new book.

1 New and 1 Update for Networking & Social Media Job Search Webinars, Teleconferences and Podcasts

Comments and Updates for SoCal Educational Networking & Job Search Organizations

SoCal Networking Event Organizations

Name: NoNameTags
Self-description: "...entrepreneurs, professional service and corporate executives, the tech/media/entertainment/Web 2.0 crowd, the elite international/expatriate set, and the generally amazing..." and "you are welcome to join us if you like hanging out with lawyers, accountants, private equity types, investment bankers, etc."
Review: No name tags, eponymously. Attendees definitely more mature, more professional than many events. Most men in suits, although ties seem entirely optional; and women in business suits, and equivalent. I recently attended my second event and the host, Gordon, is quite affable, as is most of the crowd. Certainly this is a crowd of successful professionals and business owners. Recommended.
Updated 10/24/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Challenger Networking Group (CA)
Review: I was able to attend this week and it was a "small" group of 80, of which a 100+ is common. You pay as you walk in, meet the organizers, get a name tag, fill a plate from the buffet, and then find a seat, family style, with the other networkers. Commence eating and networking. They have a different speaker each week, usually announced a couple weeks prior, starting about 30mins in and speaking for perhaps 45mins. General (standing) networking occurs after that and can linger for a couple hours. "Parking: Free - Dress: Casual. No need to RSVP." I've been previously told the Challenger group has a strong HR slant, although this seems to be historic; everyone is certainly welcome. I'm looking forward to going again.
Updated 10/21/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Small Business Network of Greater Long Beach
Sites: http://www.sbnlongbeach.com/, Small Business Network of Greater Long Beach Facebook page
Self-description: "The mission of the Small Business Network of Greater Long Beach is to provide Services, Education and Resources relevant to the needs of small and micro businesses located in the Greater Long Beach area."
Frequency/Location: Unknown
Cost: Networking Mixers appear to be free, membership in the SBN is not.
Review: None
Added 10/21/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: SocialBling "relationships are luxury"
Sites: http://www.socialbling.com/, www.twitter.com/socialbling, www.facebook.com/pages/Conversation-SocialBling/170566948017, and Press Comments/Releases: AOL money & Finance, CNBC, Yahoo Finance News
Self-description: "You don’t have to understand or invest loads of time networking in social networks anymore - we do the work for you and then make introductions. Our proprietary process of searching online and off allows us to find people based on our members, needs, wants and goals. Our professionally trained hosts facilitate introductions in person at exclusive/private group events. Through our network you will meet incredible new people, find surprising connections with people you already know, receive tips on how to use online networks and engage in the art of conversation. Your information is never shared via online open networks for all to see.
If you have been underwhelmed by any of the following:
* Online Social Networks
* Traditional Networking Events
* Online Dating
Or if you would just like to:
* Have Interesting Conversations
* Meet New People
…You are cordially invited to sign up for SocialBling. We are driven to deliver a better way to find, meet and connect with people. Membership is Complementary, only pay to attend the events that interest you."
Frequency/Location: Unknown / "Events will be hosted in the Los Angeles area for next few months, as we expand further through the state and nation, we will make the announcement. "
Cost: "$25 - $100 depending on what amenities are offered at the events. Note: Most events will be on the lower end of the range."
Review: So, social networking, business networking, and interpersonal networking (dating) perhaps all rolled into one? Judging from the FAQ and other conversations/details about this, it sounds interesting. Like some others, I don't care for the name nor tagline, but who thought that "twitter" would ever be a positive (well, for most)? When you start by filling out the (free) Guest Registry, you're faced with some vague open-ended questions. When I asked the Founder/CEO Stephanie about this, she replied "If the information provided on the short form is not enough for us to go by, we send a second one that is a bit more detailed with suggestions." That wasn't particularly helpful, but I charged ahead and signed up. Once you're invited to an event, and provided with reasons why, the hosts (whom they seem to put a lot of credence in) guide the introductions and event. Oh, and no name tags. Certainly, a strong host (as in MixxedIn, in my list) can make a huge difference, and no name tags can be quite successful (as in NoNameTags, also in my list).
Added 10/24/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Executive Career Services & Neal Schaffer
Sites: See the Events on Neal's LinkedIn page: www.linkedin.com/in/nealschaffer
Self-description: "Starting this month I will be partnering with Executive Career Services in Irvine to provide a day of workshops and seminars to the So Cal Sushi and greater Southern California community. These will be based on my recent speaking and consulting engagements that I would like to share." The events include:

• So Cal Sushi Social Media Roundtable
• LinkedIn 101 Workshop
• Social Media 101 for Businesses
• Introduction to Twitter for Professionals and Their Personal Branding

Frequency/Location: Monthly / Executive Career Services
2955 Main St, Irvine, CA 92614
Cost: $25
Review: I've attended and reviewed Neal's SoCal Sushi Networking events in my list, so these look promising. His Windmill Networking book on LinkedIn has also been published which I'm sure is quite good:

Added 10/24/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Largest Mixer
Sites: http://www.largestmixer.com/, facebook.com/group.php?gid=25841081355, twitter.com/largestmixer, linkedin.com/groups?gid=807187
Self-description: "Join local chambers of commerce and business organizations for the ultimate business networking events! Mix and mingle with business people representing hundreds of industries and companies in and around L.A., Orange County, Inland Empire and Las Vegas. The Largest Mixers are a great opportunity to reach small to large companies, meet new clients and learn how the different chambers and business organizations can make your business grow."
Frequency/Location: YEARLY / LA, Orange County, Inland Empire, Las Vegas
Cost: $15-$20
Review: None, but these are over for the year - wait until 2010.
Added 10/24/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: CEOSpace
Sites: http://www.ceospace.biz/, http://www.ceospace.biz/
Self-description: Unknown... see Review
Frequency/Location: Unknown... see Review
Cost: Unknown... see Review
Review: I've seen CEOSpace mentioned a couple times, there's meetup.com groups that seem to include networking. After spending a not insignificant portion of an hour researching it, I'm still not sure what it is and how it works. Try Googling "ceospace club ca" to find local SoCal chapters... and good luck.
Added 10/24/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Convergence Technology Council (CTC)
Sites: thectcnetwork.org
Self-description: "The CTC is dedicated to learning how emerging and converging technologies affect both our corporate and personal enterprises. We meet with technology thought leaders and business executives from vital, growing industries including Unified Communications, Entertainment, On-Line Media, Digital Distribution, Gaming, Social Networking, Medicine, Science, Energy - and many more.

Anyone involved in Technology, Entertainment, Media, Unified Communications, Science, Medicine - or anyone who simply loves VIP Seating at the Forefront of Change!

Membership Profile: At the CTC, we like to keep the 80 / 20 rule in play. That is 80% Practitioners – [CIO's, CEO's, Business Leaders, Aspiring IT Professionals, High Tech Aficionados], i.e. people who need the information to make a difference in their companies; 20% sales professionals, consultants and vendors who support the practitioners. We evaluate each membership application to ensure the integrity of the group. "
Frequency/Location: CTC meetings are held every other month on the third Thursday of the month beginning in January. Meetings are preceded by an optional dinner ($5) at 6:00pm, followed by the meeting at 6:30pm. The meeting location is the beautiful ValleyCrest Companies corporate headquarters located at: 24151 Ventura Boulevard, Calabasas, CA 91302
Cost: Free - excluding optional dinner ($5)
Review: None
Added 10/25/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: American Business Women's Association (ABWA)
Sites: http://www.abwa.org/, facebook.com/group.php?gid=19055708136 IMPACT! Council - Orange, Riverside, Los Angeles and San Bernadino Counties, Inland Valley Council - Radius of 125 miles of the city of San Bernadino, Los Angeles Area Council - Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and Ventura Counties, also local chapters may have their own sites, Facebook presence, and Meetup groups.
Self-description: "ABWA's Mission: To bring together businesswomen of diverse occupations and to provide opportunities for them to help themselves and others grow personally and professionally through leadership; education, networking support and national recognition."
Frequency/Location: Varies / Unknown
Cost: Unknown
Review: The various SoCal councils each have Local Chapters, each of which has a different schedule, see the LA Area Council Chapter Contacts as an example. There seems to be a related group (or subgroup) called WOW (either Women of Worth, or Women of Wisdom).
Added 10/26/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: Business Networking International (BNI)
Sites: http://www.bni.com/, California Chapter links
Self-description: "Our Philosophy: The philosophy of this organization is built upon the idea of Givers Gain(R): By giving business to others, you will get business in return. This is predicated on the age-old idea of "What goes around, comes around."

Our Mission: The mission of BNI is to help members increase their business through a structured, positive, and professional "word-of-mouth" program that enables them to develop long-term, meaningful relationships with quality business professionals. "
Frequency/Location: Unknown
Cost: Unknown
Review: BNI is a worldwide organization, with regional chapters such as Los Angeles and local chapters which such as these within Los Angeles. Like "Le Tip" there's only one representative from any field in any particular chapter.
Added 10/26/09 by Todd Zebert

Networking & Social Media Job Search Webinars, Teleconferences and Podcasts

Name: SixFigureStart - Ask SixFigureStart Career Coaching
Frequency/Location: "Every first Friday of the month at 1p ET"
Updated 10/21/09 by Todd Zebert

Name: "Ask the Career Coach" - PeopleThink - Karen Colligan
Sites: http://www.peoplethink.biz/
Self-description: "Join Karen Colligan, as she personally answers your questions about your career, resume, interviewing, job search strategies and more."
Frequency/Location: Weekly (dates shown through Nov 09)
Cost: Free
Review: None
Added 10/21/09 by Todd Zebert

SoCal Educational Networking & Job Search Organizations

This week I attended my 3rd USC Marshall Alumni luncheon and they've all been filled with great conversation among accomplished professionals and business owners. Typically six to a dozen attendees.

I also attended my second USC Marshall Alumni LA Business Networking Mixer. These are monthly, have two or three dozen attendees, have a wider range of tenured professionals - from recent grads and up, and do have a few more job seekers than the Luncheons.

Why aren't making use of these events? Not a Trojan Alum? Ask your colleagues - most of these events are open to guests.

Or engage with your school's Alumni association.