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Tuesday, February 23, 2010

Job Search Resources Weekly Update - 2/23/2010

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

  • There's a promising new weekly morning networking event unlike any I've seen. Ellen kicks-off the weekly NetWalkers & Co. Troop 90210 this Wednesday morning at the Electric Fountain in Beverly Hills: Walk and network! Bring comfortable shoes and business cards. I plan to be there.
  • Notably, and at the other end of the spectrum appears to be the big daddy of networking events, The MeatEaters Ball. It's go big! I plan to be there too as soon as I find the big entry fee (all for charity though!)
  • Here's a timely one-off: I can't find any online reference to but happened across a flyer:
    March 25, 2010 11am - 2pm "Come by for this one-day job fair open to all job-seekers, not restricted by level of education, experience, race or age. Local businesses, chain operations, schools, military, and employment agencies will be among those looking for people to fill jobs. No appointment required. just come on it." Corbin Bowl, 19616 Ventura Blvd., Tarzana,CA 91356 (818) 996-2695 www.corbinbowl.net Oh, and "Bowl for FREE while you're at the center."

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


SoCal Networking Event Organizations

Name: Networking For Professionals (NFP)
Sites: www.networkingforprofessionals.com, Industry Insights Blog, Success Square/Coaching Blog, Events Blog, City Chat Blog, twitter.com/nfp_biznetwork
Updated 2/22/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: (Los Angeles) Geek Dinner
Frequency/Location: From Heather "I officially closed it down at the end of last year for a variety of reasons: I was burned out on organizing and the LA geek community had changed."
Review: No longer exists.
Updated 2/22/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: Scrum Club Los Angeles
Sites: losangeles.scrumclub.org, facebook.com/pages/Scrum-Club/81581409897, twitter.com/scrumclub, linkedin.com/groups?gid=1013047
Updated 2/22/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: Hike the Geek
Sites: www.hikethegeek.com, LA Chapter, SD Chapter
Self-description: "HIKE the GEEK is a good natured endeavor to gather together bright fun loving self-righteous arrogant sarcastic eggheads to overcome their fear of the outdoors and realize that they do not control the sun.... Yet! individuals that normally don't get enough sun.

Hikes usually occur once per week on Sunday when Christians are off the mountains and in church and feature friends debating the latest trends of industry, music, philosophy, biology, or any other "yeah, I'm smarter than you" conversation, with the occasional wet noodle-style fight and potluck lunch."
Frequency/Location: "usually occur once per week on Sunday" / Varies
Cost: Free
Review: Also in Amsterdam, Austin, Maui, San Francisco, and Seattle. Seems more than a bit irreverent - check out their About and FAQ pages.
Added 2/22/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: Lunch 2.0
Sites: www.lunch20.com, facebook.com/group.php?gid=2376399004, twitter.com/Lunch20, linkedin.com/e/gis/1082507, LA "LANs", San Diego "LANS"... I can't find a link...
Self-description: "Lunch 2.0 is a weekly meeting of local entrepreneurs and their employees to learn about each other and discuss the marketplace. Its primary focus is Web 2.0 companies.

Lunch rotates from company to company. So if Frank's widgets hosts this Friday, maybe Jonnie.com hosts next. It's a great way to meet other interesting and ambitious people in the region."
Frequency/Location: Varies / Varies
Cost: Unknown
Review: Also in Germany, Seattle, Portland, Bangalore, NYC, Netherlands, Hawaii, and Shanghai.
Added 2/22/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: Girl Geek Dinners
Sites: girlgeekdinners.com
Self-description: "Background

The Girl Geek Dinners were founded on the 16th August 2005 as a result of one girl geek who got annoyed and frustrated about being one of the only females attending technical events. She was tired of being assumed to be marketing, tired of constantly having to prove herself and decided that she just wanted a change and to be treated just the same as any other geek out there, gender and age aside. After all to be geeky is to be intelligent, have passion for a subject and to know that subject in depth. It’s not at all about being better than others, or about gender, race, religion or anything else. Those things just detract from the real fun stuff, the technology, the innovation and the spread of new ideas.

So what did this geeky girl do to change the world of geeks and girl geeks everywhere… well she got in touch with a few well known bloggers, posted online about her idea of getting geeks to educate one another over dinner and then arranged the first girl geek dinner event with a little help from her friends. The first event had 35 people at it all from London and the surrounding area, shortly after people started to hear about the events and companies started sponsoring them to cover the food and drinks cost.

Then they started popping up in other UK cities as she trained others up in how to run the events, spreading the formula for them… so they then started popping up in Europe… and shortly after that over in Canada… Now they are starting to pop up in New Zealand and Australia. Who knows where will be next

Past Events

Where have the past events been, what is the format and why?

If we start with London, the birth home for the girl geek dinners, they started their life at the Texas Embassy over in Trafalgar Square, and soon decided to move about a bit and have since been found in bars such as Balls Brothers and offices such as Google, Saatchi & Saatchi and Skype.

The format of the events is usually an informal, buffet dinner style with finger foods and wine as well as soft drinks for those who are driving. We have a speaker or three on a subject of choice either based on a technical subject area or business area, or even on women and tech issues (such as mentoring). The events are varied and the reach vast.

We keep the events informal and outside of lecture theatres or offices where possible solely to take the women (and the men… oh yes men are allowed to come, however they must have an invitation from a female attending the event!) into an informal and relaxed environment where they feel comfortable talking and interacting. We limit the number of male attendees by putting the balance of men to women in the hands of the attendees. This means that there can be a 50:50 split or anything up to that on the male side. Generally the more men in attendance, the more the dynamics of the event change. It is a learning experience for both the men and the women as men in tech aren’t used to interacting with women in tech on a technical level. Technical women are also not used to being technical with other women either… it’s a learning curve on all sides.

Total Number of Girl Geek Dinner Groups: 60 (90 including those starting out at the moment)

Estimated Members: 25,000 – 45,000

Countries: 21 (soon to be 32)"
Frequency/Location: Varies / Varies
Cost: Free?
Review: None, but wow, what an organization... but none anywhere in SoCal?!
Added 2/22/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: Mobile Monday (MoMo)
Sites: www.mobilemonday.net, twitter.com/MobileMonday, LA Chapter, LA Chapter Facebook Group, LA Chapter Yahoo Group
Self-description: "Mobile Monday is a global community of mobile industry visionaries, developers and influentials fostering cooperation and cross-border business development through virtual and live networking events to share ideas, best practices and trends from global markets.

Mobile Monday has the following objectives:

* To encourage innovation within the mobile sector.
* To facilitate networking between small and large companies, and between local and foreign.
* To help local companies effectively participate in international initiatives through the import and export of visions, concepts, technologies, know-how and best practices.
* To present innovative visions, trends, studies and forecasts from the mobile marketplace.
* To facilitate and create partnerships.
* To contribute to the education of the broader public through its publications, online presence and media partnerships.

Mobile Monday is organized by a group of dedicated volunteers from around the world. Originating in Helsinki, Finland, in the year 2000, Mobile Monday has grown into the world’s leading mobile community."
Frequency/Location: Varies / Varies
Cost: Unknown
Review: In upwards of 80 cities worldwide.
Added 2/22/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: ThursdayLunch
Sites: promenade.thursdaylunch.com, Subscribe to Mailing List, facebook.com/group.php?gid=17912753952, twitter.com/thursdaylunch
Self-description: "If you are ever in Santa Monica on a Thursday, join us for lunch on the 3rd Street Promenade.

Promenade ThursdayLunch is a "friends and friends of friends" event. Interested first timers, please contact Eric Hammond so you're not a stranger when you show up. "
Frequency/Location: Thursdays at Noon / "Meet on the Santa Monica 3rd Street Promenade just South of Santa Monica Blvd."
Cost: "Each individual pays the cost of what they ordered plus 25% to cover tax and tip. Cash. "
Review: None
Added 2/22/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: (SoCal) Code Camp
Sites: www.socalcodecamp.com, Twitter Tag #SoCalCodeCamp, Flickr tag 'socalcodecamp', FaceBook SoCal Code Camp Group, FaceBook SoCal Code Camp Page
Self-description: "The Code Camp Manifesto

The original Code Camp was a conglomeration of ideas by many different people across the development community. The idea was simple provide an off hour forum for the development community to speak and share ideas for them to come and enjoy. The results have been astounding. I am happy to report that they are being planned across many different cities.
The question is what makes a Code Camp?

The answer is actually simple. In order to use the official Code Camp name and banner follow these simple protocols.
By and For the Developer Community

Code Camps are about the developer community at large. They are meant to be a place for developers to come and learn from their peers. Topics are always based on community interest and never determined by anyone other than the community.
Always Free

Code Camps are always free for attendees.
Community Developed Material

The success of the Code Camps is that they are based on community content. All content that is delivered is original. All presentation content must be provided completely (including code) without any restriction. If you have content you don't want to share or provide to attendees then the Code Camp is not the place for you.
No Fluff only Code

Code Camps are about showing the code. Refer to rule #1 if you have any questions on this.
Community Ownership

The most important element of the Code Camp is always the developer community. All are welcome to attend and speak and do so without expectation of payment or any other compensation other than their participation in the community.
Never occur during work hours

We need to understand that many times people can't leave work for a day or two to attend training or even seminars. The beauty of the Code Camp is that they always occur on weekends."
Frequency/Location: Varies / Varies
Cost: Free
Review: Also in about 15 cities in the US.
Added 2/22/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: BarCamp (LA)
Sites: barcamp.org, twitter.com/barCamp, facebook.com/pages/BarCamp/19305288144, www.barcampLA.org, twitter.com/barcampla, barcamp.org/BarCampLosAngeles, groups.google.com/group/barcampla
Self-description: "BarCamp is an ad-hoc un-conference born from the desire for people to share and learn in an open environment. It is an intense event with discussions, demos and interaction from attendees.

All attendees must give a demo, a session, or help with one. All presentions are scheduled the day they happen. Prepare in advance, but come early to get a slot on the wall.

Presenters are responsible for making sure that notes/slides/audio/video of their presentations are published on the web for the benefit of all and those who can’t be present.

Anyone with something to contribute or with the desire to learn is welcome and invited to join."
Frequency/Location: Once or Twice a year / Varies
Cost: Free?
Review: BarCamps are held in many cities across the world. There's also the related "Health2.0 - a revolution in health and healthcare" in both SD and LA, see barcamp.pbworks.com/HealthCamp
Added 2/22/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: SoCal Drupal HUB
Sites: groups.drupal.org/southern-california
Self-description: "SoCal Drupal HUB Rocks

The Southern California Group acts as a hub to help Drupal geeks find and organize with each other. SoCal area is Rich with Drupal professionals and hobbyist's alike. All of us that live here, know its the weather that keeps us so friendly... and the kool-aid is even better in the Sun.

What area is SoCal Drupal?

Southern California Drupal extends from Point Conception (north of Santa Barbara) south to San Diego and eastward from the Pacific Ocean. The group has been divided geographically using guidelines I found here, which also formed the basis for Geographical Group categories."
Frequency/Location: NA / NA
Cost: NA
Review: Check here to find the many Drupal User Groups (DUGs) in SoCal.
Added 2/22/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: CoWorking
Sites: coworking.pbworks.com, twitter.com/Coworking, coworking.pbworks.com/CoworkingLosAngeles, coworking.pbworks.com/CoworkingLongBeach, coworking.pbworks.com/CoworkingOrangeCounty, coworking.pbworks.com/CoworkingPasadena, coworking.pbworks.com/CoworkingRiverside, coworking.pbworks.com/CoworkingSanDiego, coworking.pbworks.com/CoworkingSanDiegoNorthCounty, coworking.pbworks.com/SantaMonicaCoworking,
Self-description: "Coworking is cafe-like community/collaboration space for developers, writers and independents.

Or, its like this: start with a shared office and add cafe culture. Which is the opposite of most modern cafes. ;)"
Frequency/Location: NA / Many!
Cost: Varies, but can be substantial.
Review: Not really a networking event or organization, but an interesting concept that gets many of us out from our homes and into spaces were we can interact with other freelancers, work-from-homes types, and entrepreneurs.
Added 2/22/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: Jelly
Sites: workatjelly.com, Find Jelly in different cities around the world, meetup.com/jellyla
Self-description: "Jelly is a casual working event. It's taken place in over a hundred cities where people have come together (in a person's home, a coffee shop, or an office) to work for the day. We provide chairs and sofas, wireless internet, and interesting people to talk to, collaborate with, and bounce ideas off of.

You bring a laptop (or whatever you need to get your work done) and a friendly disposition."
Frequency/Location: Varies / Varies
Cost: Free to Varies?
Review: Not really a networking event or organization, but something similar. In many cities across the world. Interesting.
Added 2/22/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: Ladies Who Launch
Sites: www.ladieswholaunch.com, facebook.com/ladieswholaunch, twitter.com/Ladieswholaunch, www.ladieswholaunch.com/losangeles, www.ladieswholaunch.com/orangecounty, www.ladieswholaunch.com/sandiego
Self-description: "Ladies Who Launch is the first new media company to provide resources and connections for women entrepreneurs.

Women are launching businesses at twice the rate of men, and they are doing it primarily for lifestyle reasons–they want more freedom, flexibility, and creativity in their lives.

Have you been searching for a place where you can:
- connect with others for advice, referrals and customers,
- promote and exchange your products and services,
- receive PR leads bi-weekly to your inbox,
- get inspired to launch and model yourself after successful women entrepreneurs who have built multimillion dollar companies,
- learn from experts on everything from product development to social media to trademarks and LLC’s?

You’ve come to the right place. Ladies Who Launch is your one-stop shop and destination for launching your dreams and growing your business! We deliver you infrastructure and inspiration, relevant connections and vetted resources. The opportunities are endless and we provide them. "
Frequency/Location: Varies / Varies
Cost: Unknown
Review: None
Added 2/22/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: dorkbot
Sites: dorkbot.org, dorkbot.org/dorkbotsocal, SoCal Announcement List, SoCal Facebook Group
Self-description: "What is dorkbot, exactly?: Each dorkbot is different and is driven by the needs and interests of people in the local community. But generally, the main goals of dorkbot are: to create an informal, friendly environment in which people can talk about the work they're doing and to foster discussion about that work; to help bring together people from different backgrounds who are interested in similar things; to give us all an opportunity to see the strange things our neighbors are doing with electricity. dorkbot isn't really a forum for formal artist talks or lectures, but rather a chance for diverse people to have friendly conversations about interesting ideas.

The organizers of Pixelache 2008 asked Douglas to talk about dorkbot's "organisational strategy". Here's what he had to say.

Frequency: How often will you hold meetings? Some dorkbots have meetings every month, others just a few times a year. It's a lot of work putting the meetings together, and in smaller cities is can be difficult to schedule enough speakers. You don't want to burn out!

Locale: If you are in a smaller city or town, you might want to consider collaborating with people in other nearby cities/towns. Maybe the dorkbot meeting can travel to a different location each month, or maybe you can all pool your resources for a couple long-form meetings each season.

Venue: Is there a place to hold the meetings? It can be very convenient to have the meetings in the same place each time. Often an art gallery or performance space will be willing to donate their facilities for the occassional meeting. If you know someone connected to a university you may be able to get a space through them. It doesn't have to be a fancy space!

Equipment: Do you have access to presentation equipment? At the least you'll probably need a video projector, a small sound system, and a network connection. A laptop computer can also make things easier on the presenters. As with the venue, it's best if you can use the same equipment at each meeting. It can be very stressful trying to track down a video projector the day of a dorkbot meeting! Often the venue you use will have A/V equipment you can borrow.

$$$: dorkbot is a non-$-oriented organization. dorkbot meetings are generally free events, so you need to be careful about spending lots of money to produce them! Several dorkbots sell beer and/or food at the meetings to help cover their costs. Make sure you talk to the venue before selling anything. dorkbot.org donates web space, email lists, etc. to the local dorkbots, so there is no administrative cost associated with setting up a new dorkbot.

Meeting Format: dorkbot meetings are rather informal. There are usually two or three presentations (about 20-30 minutes each) per meeting and sometimes very short "lightening" presentations from audience members. The specific format is up to each organizer to decide. You'll probably have to play with your format for a few meetings until you find something that works well in your context. One thing to keep in mind is that the dorkbot format works best for informal, conversational presentations on a particular work or topic, rather than formal artist talks or lectures on a body of work. 30 minutes isn't much time, so focused presentations work best. "
Frequency/Location: Varies / Varies
Cost: Free?
Review: In about 100 cities around the world.
Added 2/22/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: NetWalkers & Co.
Sites: twitter.com/NetWalkers90210
Self-description: "Skip the carbs and cocktails. Get outside and walk and connect!
Meet up with neighbors and local business people for an hour-long brisk walk and conversation. Get it done in time to start the day - whether you're working in an office or on your own or in between. Each walk will include speed introductions, conversation starters, warm-up and cool-off stretching. This is scheduled to be a regular walk on Wednesdays.

NetWalkers & Co.™ Troop 90210™ is organized by Ellen Lutwak, a Beverly Hills resident who introduced the Walk to School Wednesday campaign to the local school district.
Get the creative juices flowing and the energy level up!

Walk the Green Walk: Recycle and wear a name badge you already have from a favorite conference or event. (Now you know what to do what that collection of plastic badges.) Stop plastic badges."
Frequency/Location: Weekly on Wednesdays at 7:30am / Beverly Hills Electric Fountain, Santa Monica and Wilshire Boulevards, Beverly Hills, CA
Cost: Free! Pedometers are $15 and T-shirts for sale will be available at future events.
Review:
Added 2/22/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: Ignite
Sites: ignite.oreilly.com, www.ignitesandiego.org, Ignite LA mailing list, Ignite LA Facebook group, Ignite LA Twitter tag #igniteLA
Self-description: "Global Ignite Week
Ignite goes global—from March 1-5, 2010, 50+ Ignites will take place in cities around the world. Upwards of 10,000 entrepreneurs, technologists, DIYers, creative professionals, and enthusiastic knowledge-seekers will gather in local pubs, theaters, and other convivial venues for an evening that is a unique blend of networking, information, and fun, encapsulated in the Ignite motto: "Enlighten us, but make it quick."

In talks that are exactly five minutes long, Ignite presenters share their personal and professional passions, using 20 slides that auto-advance every 15 seconds.

Global Ignite Week is both an in-person and online phenomenon. Local Ignites will stream live video during the event, and those videos will be archived on the new Ignite video site that is being launched in conjunction with the event. At least 500 five-minute session videos will be available on the new site when it debuts.

Don't miss being part of this enlightening week— attend, present, or lead an Ignite in your city.

What is Ignite?
Fast-paced, fun, thought-provoking, social, local, global—Ignite is all of these and more. It's a high-energy evening of 5-minute talks by people who have an idea—and the guts to get onstage and share it with their hometown crowd. Run by local volunteers who are connected through the global Ignite network, Ignite is a force for raising the collective IQ and building connections in each city. And, via streaming and archived videos of local talks, local Ignites share all that knowledge and passion with the world. "
Frequency/Location: Yearly? / "Six continents, 60 Cities, 600 Talks, 10,000+ Igniters"
Cost: Free?
Review: None... this is kinda like TED?
Added 2/22/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: MeatEaters Ball
Sites: www.meateatersball.org, linkedin.com/groups?gid=1849455
Self-description: This site doesn't have much on it as far as description except for how many people showed up previous years. "Once a year the who's who of the finance, entertainment and "C" level executives gather for a great night of Bar B Q, martinis and networking. Live music, great sights and the best Bar B Q from Woody's (LeafEaters will eat too)." (from the LinkedIn group)

Here's some 3rd party commentary on it:
On May 7, 2009, more than 800 C-Level executives and financial investors will gather at 2000 Avenue of the Stars, in Century City, for the Fourth Annual MeatEaters Ball – an exclusive night of networking, charity, dancing, deal-making…and tasty southern barbecue.

Confirmed event attendees represent such upper-echelon firms and companies as Google, Square 1 Bank, the Rubicon Project, Endgame Entertainment, SONY, Idealab, IBM, Skyline Music Publishing, and hundreds more, such as investors GRP Partners, Redpoint, Stone Canyon and Leonard Green Partners, to name just a few.

Frank Mottek, host of KNX 1070 Newsradio’s popular Southern California show, “KNX Business Hour”, has referred to the MeatEaters Ball as “…the best networking event of the year.” The Ball has been referenced as the replacement for the now defunct “Predator’s Ball” – an annual event once hosted by Drexel’s Michael Milken, at the Beverly Hills Hotel. And although the location and theme of the event may have changed, the target audience of the events remains the same.

“This is a once-per-year chance at some of the best targeted networking in the nation,” said MeatEaters Ball founder, Robert K. Whyte. “We attract the who’s who from the financial and entrepreneurial worlds… players from equity, hedge funds, lending and debt from all over the country, plus top C-Level executives from the best companies that want to rub shoulders with people who can write checks.”


...and...

The 4th Annual MeatEaters Ball took place on Thursday May 7th at 2000 Avenue of the Stars in Century City. For the first time, this years event will be donating to two separate charites, The Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Monica and The BizWorld Foundation. This incredible night of fundraising included networking, dancing, deal-making and a tasty selection of southern barbecue. This year was over-the-top, adding a Red Carpet arrival for photo opportunities. Frank Mottek, host of "KNX Business Hour", refers to the MeatEaters Ball as "The best networking event of the year."

It was an unusually beautiful and warm spring evening, with a bright full moon shining down on over 1,000 hungry patrons that turned out for the evnt. The delicious and sumptuous meat feast, was once again provided by the famous Los Angeles eatery, Woody's Bar-B-Que. The menu consisted of an assortment of chicken and pork ribs along with potato salad, baked beans and fresh garden salad with vinaigrette dressing. Home made rolls and butter were also available to those not counting calories.

The event started promptly at 6:00pm and the lobby and back patio filled up fast as both legal eagles and patrons alike, lined up for food and a cool beverages after work.

This year's event featured live performances by an assortment of local bands, along with internationally-famous DJ Jamesen Re spinning throughout the evening. Event guests were treated to a promotional music CD of Tim Draper's newly released song, "Take My Money", which is about the changing global economy, and the government's response to the economic downturn. In addition to the music, there were a bevy of beautiful Go-Go Dancers shaking it to to the music.

All proceeds will go to Children's Hospital of Los Angeles and The BizWorld Foundation.
Frequency/Location: Annual / Varies
Cost: Advance tickets at $125 (last minute $175). Group ticket discounts available, as well as some discount codes. Cocktail attire.
Review: None
Added 2/22/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: Tech Coast Angels - Fast Pitch Competition and other events
Sites: www.techcoastangels.com, twitter.com/Techcoastangels, facebook.com/techcoastangels, Events, Fast Pitch Competitions, www.seedtrack.org
Self-description: "Our Fast Pitch Competitions are "the" place for Southern California entrepreneurs to present their ideas to investors.

Each competition consists of 10-12 entrepreneurs giving fast pitches to a panel of investors and other members of Southern California's entrepreneurial community. Pitches are judged on the quality of the CEO’s presentation and the company’s investment potential.

Over the years, Tech Coast Angels and several venture capital firms have funded many companies that have been Fast Pitch participants. Since its inception in 1997, Tech Coast Angels has provided more than $104 million to more than 160 companies, and attracted more than $1 billion from co-investors.

Fast Pitch events include plenty of networking time – Tech Coast Angels members, other angel investors, venture capitalists, and interested parties can meet and mingle over delicious food and beverages. Several hundred people attend each competition.

These are “must attend” events for entrepreneurs looking to jump-start their dreams and for investors who want to hear about the latest innovations in Southern California."
Frequency/Location: Two or three a year / Various in SoCal
Cost: Upwards of $100, early and student discounts available
Review: None
Added 2/22/10 by Todd Zebert

Networking & Social Media Job Search Webinars, Teleconferences and Podcasts

No updates this week.

SoCal Educational Networking & Job Search Organizations

No updates this week.

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.
  • Volunteer - Network while doing "good".
  • Other - keep your mind open.

Friday, February 19, 2010

Job Search Resources Weekly Update - 2/19/2010

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

Sorry for the delay, but this Update is BIG!!

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

4 Updates and 12 New in SoCal Networking Event Organizations.

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

No updates for SoCal Educational Networking & Job Search Organizations.

No updates for Other & Indirect Job Networking Opportunities

SoCal Networking Event Organizations

Name: New Media Vault
Sites: twitter.com/newmediavault, http://www.tubefilter.tv/newmediavault/, www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=65010916756
Updated 2/15/2010 by Todd Zebert

Name: LAdobe User Group
Sites: twitter.com/ladobe, www.laadug.org
Self-description: "The Los Angeles Adobe User Group began in early 2006... While user groups already existed for certain Adobe applications, LAdobe would revolve around the majority of Adobe applications. Especially those not featured prominently at other area user group meetings. Meetings ... have featured top speakers including Colin Smith, Stephen Burns, Joshua Adams, Daniel Sorenson, Lon Levin, Jacob Rosenberg and many more.

One mantra of the group is to have it’s member share it’s knowledge of Adobe apps and to always admit all members free to all events. Unlike some user groups, LAdobe never has and never will charge an admission fee to its’ meetings or special events.

LAdobe continues to strive to present the best speakers and events for the Los Angeles tech, creative and development communities and will be presenting many special events, launch parties and even a MiniMAX or two over the next few years.

If it’s Adobe….It’s here."
Frequency/Location: "Meetings occur once every month on the fourth Thursday at 7pm" / Key Code Media, 1004 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401 (located between 10th and 11th)
Cost: Free
Review: Adam Bell founded this group and I've met him numerous times; he's knowledgeable, a good guy, and shares my interest in good beer.
Added 2/15/2010 by Todd Zebert

Name: Technosium Executive Alliance Forums
Sites: www.technosium.com, /twitter.com/technosiumusa, flickr.com/photos/prandcorporate, youtube.com/view_play_list?p=B2DADE555EB2C1EA, twitter.com/PRandCorporate
Self-description: "Technosium Executive Alliance Forums are bringing industry vendors and end-users together through interactive meetings. Technosium has received support in past events from associations and industry leaders including Association of Information Technology Professionals, Information Systems Security Association, Silicon Valley Communications, San Jose Mercury News - The Newspaper of Silicon Valley, Wi-Fi Alliance, Trusted Computing Group, Information Security Professionals Association, Network Products Guide, Personal Broadband Industry Association, Covenant, Wireless Communications Alliance, Technology Lawyer, Info Security Products Guide, New Technology World and Stanford Graduate School of Business."
Frequency/Location: Varies / Varies
Cost: Unknown
Review: None
Added 2/15/2010 by Todd Zebert

Name: Moodtyme Events
Review: They categorize each event as one or more types: "VIP POWER NETWORKING EVENT" (VPNE), "PRE-GRAMMY POWER NIGHT" (PGPN), "THE LIST" (TL), plus four others that are "Coming Soon."

I attended the 1/30 Los Angeles "PGPN + VPNE + TL" event at The Kress, Hollywood. Attendees filled out name tags, received a small promotional chocolate from one of the "event partners", and were directed into a large private room. The founder Germaine K. Moody took the Mic at about 7:15 and introduced the event and a singer with the comment that they will "keep the music low to network". Throughout the evening a number of acts played a song or a few, and the volume increased until it was concert-level. It was like a music showcase; many seemed not to be expecting this, and a number of people left. The event kicked off with about 60 people (making the the venue seemed a bit empty), and peaked at about 100. Between the acts the Mic was passed for attendees to do their 30sec commercials; it was tough to hear them even with no music playing. There was a strong music industry attendance with performers, singers, songwriters and actors. Networking was active. There was a cash bar and free appetizers. Parking in Hollywood on a weekend night is expensive. Dress varied from club-like to men in coats and ties. At 11pm the lights dimmed, a DJ took over, and the regular Kress club-goers took over.
Updated 2/15/2010 by Todd Zebert

Name: indie Producer (iP) Schmoozefests
Sites: www.indieproducer.net/Events/what-is-an-ip-schmoozefest, twitter.com/iPmembers
Self-description: "People always say that to be successful in Hollywood you have to network. But if you are new to the business, how do you get started? Or maybe you have been around for a while, but just can’t seem to connect with the kind of people who can actually help you. Don’t you wish you could share a casual drink with a Network Executive or Oscar-nominated screenwriter? An award winning Producer, Director, or actor? Well, now you can!

IP Schmoozefest is a unique networking opportunity for you to “schmooze” with literally all kinds of successful industry professionals in a relaxed party environment. These popular events give our members the chance to mix with their peers over drinks while also talking one-on-one with some of the most successful and inspirational people in the entertainment industry. Our Mentors range from award-winning screenwriters, producers, directors, to accomplished agents, executives, attorneys, and managers in both television and film along with all aspects of “Below the Line” crew members.

Schmoozefest features 6 to 8 VIP Mentors, each sitting at their own table. Throughout the evening, our guests make the rounds, asking questions and sharing stories with the industry veterans. If you are shy we have IP staff there to help introduce you to the other guests, and suggest the Mentors who will help you get the most of the evening.

By the end of the night, you will have gained valuable career advice from the pros, and made connections with others in the industry, too. Just like that, you’re schmoozing!"
Frequency/Location: Unknown / Unknown
Cost: $20
Review: The iP site also supports a (free) membership function with photos, videos, jobs offered/wanted, chat and more.
Added 2/15/2010 by Todd Zebert

Name: Ladies Who Brunch
Sites: http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/brunchingladies
Self-description: "LWB is unlike other groups: we're only for women in the Los Angeles film, TV, music, publishing and games industries. Our events are only open to members, and members must apply to join through me with a resume. We operate for now through a Yahoo Group. Events are irregular and the details change but we do them every couple months or so. Current members can submit new member nominations to karen@ladieswhobrunch.org."
Frequency/Location: Varies / Varies
Cost: Unknown
Review: None, but if you happen to run across their non-yahoo website, keep in mind it's under construction.
Added 2/15/2010 by Todd Zebert

Name: Networking For Professionals (NFP)
Review: I attended the 2/2/10 "High Speed Networking" event at The Yard, Santa Monica. The event took place in the shared main room of venue which wasn't crowded with only a few other tables occupied. Lighting was good and the background music was mostly OK, but lower could have been better. I ended up arriving early and was greeted by two other attendees so we networked, of course. The "High Speed Networking" would take place on a long, tall table with chairs. David and Dava were the hosts of this event, and I believe they arrived a bit late, as did about half the attendees. At the official start time, there were only 12 people. Name tags were made available. Most men were wearing jackets, but I don't recall any ties. Drink specials were available but they were domestic commercial beer and who'd order that at The Yard with all it's otherwise excellent choice of domestic and international beers? Free appetizer plates were placed on the table.
Overall, I'd say the event had a slight unorganized feel. The High Speed Networking seemed to start late but there were two dozen or more participating (including about 6 women). It operated as follows: each pair across the table would have 5mins to network, and then one side would slide over a chair. As the event progressed both the non-attendee crowd, the music, and the subsequent overall noise of the venue increased; it became difficult to talk & listen across the tables. I met a little more than half the attendees during the official networking - they had to stop at 8:45 as another event had the venue at 9. Some stuck around for another 30 mins or so and continued their conversations or started new ones. The variety of people I met was notable, including: 2 acupuncturists, 2 CPAs, 2 Chiropractor, 2 in nutritional/supplement sales, an architect, and a painting contractor. It was more similar to a Referral Network.
The next day NFP sent out an email with attendee's names, profession, company, "seeking", and email, plus a link to their NFP online member profile.
Updated 2/15/2010 by Todd Zebert

Name: WestSide PowerTippers
Sites: www.powertippers.com/WestSide
Self-description: "We are a professional organization of men and women dedicated to high standards of competence and service.

Our purpose is the exchange of business tips.

Each Business category is represented by one member and conflicts of interest are disallowed.

OUR CREED: 'WestSide PowerTippers are dedicated professionals networking for business success.
When one member wins, all members win.'"
Frequency/Location: Every Thursday 7-8:30AM "Please arrive between 6:30 and 6:45 to sign-in" / The Olympic Collection Banquet & Conference Center, 11301 West Olympic Boulevard, West Los Angeles, CA 90064. Call to confirm time & location.
Cost: "Come to 2 breakfast meetings…the first as our guest and the second for $18, payable at registration." Membership application, inspection, and approval by group follows. "Only one member per category is allowed in each chapter."
Review: None
Added 2/15/2010 by Todd Zebert

Name: EcoTuesday
Sites: www.ecotuesday.com, facebook.com/ecotuesday, flickr.com/photos/ecotuesday, linkedin.com/groups?home=&gid=145695, twitter.com/ecotuesday
Self-description: "EcoTuesday Vision:

EcoTuesday is committed to changing the way people do business. The monthly event provides a structured environment where sustainable business leaders network with one another and gain insight from industry thought–leaders and trendsetters. Everyone in the room quickly learns about everyone else during the “introduction circle”. EcoTuesday.com connects participants between events, serves as a hub for conversations and showcases local businesses.

The vision of EcoTuesday is for business people to share ideas and collaborate so that companies develop products and services that have a positive impact on the marketplace and planet.

MONTHLY EVENTS
Featuring opportunities for sustainable business leaders to network and learn about current issues from an innovative speaker and from one another. During the introduction circle, all participants share one sentence about their business and a passion or interest around sustainability.

ONLINE NETWORK
Connecting all sustainable business leaders between events. Participants can automatically create profiles within the global community directory when registering for events, create groups based on specific interests or geographic region, communicate with each other between events, discover sustainability resources and find job opportunities. This is coming soon! Stay tuned!

LOCAL AMBASSADORS
Producing EcoTuesday events in their city, becoming regional leaders in sustainable business. Ambassadors are empowered with tools and resources to earn income by generating and hosting EcoTuesday events."
Frequency/Location: Monthly / In about ten cities across the US (including Los Angeles)
Cost: "EcoTuesday is FREE (with your online registration - Ed.) in February and March! Please RSVP. (It's $10 at the door.)"
Review: None
Added 2/15/2010 by Todd Zebert

Name: Schmoozd
Sites: www.schmoozd.com, www.facebook.com/Schmoozd, linkedin.com/groups?gid=2706171, twitter.com/schmoozd,
Self-description: "As Social Networking is moving from its primordial beginnings to something more sophisticated the need for getting people physically together is growing, especially on a regional basis. Los Angeles and its environs has become a major computing powerhouse and social networking has influenced much of the latest in web applications. Schmoozd was brought about to facilitate the coming together of people and in the sharing of ideas between the city’s brightest entrepreneurs, technocrats, bloggers, designers, and investors.

Founded by local entrepreneurs, Schmoozd is not your typical networking event. There are no presentations or panels to be found. The purpose, therefore, is to provide a venue where people can mix in a casual manner, yet to allow for the exchange of ideas. Yes to see and be seen!

Schmoozd is not your usual get together. There’s no boring speakers or yawner Powerpoint presentations telling you stuff you already know. Instead, you get to mingle up close and personal with technocrats, entrepreneurs, VC funders, web programmers, marketers and other social networking geeks like you. This is not a hosted event, so you get to be casual and be yourself and ask any questions you want to without being screened by a moderator or other evil gatekeepers.

Here’s what you can expect…

* Access to successful people who are doing things right – up close and personal. Ask them any question you want.
* Appetizers. If you eat enough, you can call it dinner and spend your $ on a Schmoozed martini instead.
* Drink discounts – just show the bartender your Schmoozd sticker.
* Occasional gift-raffles. Sign-In for a chance to win some free swag.
* Hours: 6:00 – 10:00.
* A chance to converse, share ideas with, and potentially be seen by some of LA’s hottest movers and shakers.

What are you waiting for? Schmooze, baby, schmoooooze!"
Frequency/Location: Varies / Varies
Cost: $20
Review: None
Added 2/15/2010 by Todd Zebert

Name: Startup Weekend
Sites: startupweekend.org, facebook.com/startupweekend, twitter.com/startupweekend
Self-description: "Startup Weekend recruits a highly motivated group of developers, business managers, startup enthusiasts, marketing gurus, graphic artists and more to a 54 hour event that builds communities, companies and projects.

...the weekend is a concept of a conference focusing on learning by creating. It is known for its quick decisions, ‘out of the box’ thinking (oh no, the buzzwords are attacking!), unique facilitation technique and letting the founders show what they can do.

The participants that attend a Startup Weekend decide what they want to tackle over the weekend and come out at the end with several developed companies or projects. Attendees are responsible for bringing the same desire and passion to the project and walk out of the room with the task at hand, in a short 54 hours. Sound intense? It is.

What do Attendees get?
Startup Weekend provides an unprecedented level of networking, team building, learning, and life changes for its attendees and their communities. Don’t forget that there will be 6-7 meals and drinks provided. There is a reason that most attendees come back for every event – it’s just plain fun and provides amazing opportunities you can’t get anywhere else. Sometimes a company emerges, sometimes one doesn’t. Some companies go on to produce revenue or get seed funding, but every time people leave with more experience, insight, knowledge, friends, and resources than they came with."
Frequency/Location: Multiple times a month / "The program has already met with success in over 52 cities and 12 countries and growing!"
Cost: $15-$50 depending on role, student status, or amount of time spent
Review: Not a typical networking event, but certainly an excellent opportunity to get involved with people you probably want to be networking with.
Added 2/15/2010 by Todd Zebert

Name: Web Host Industry Review
Sites: www.thewhir.com, twitter.com/thewhir, www.flickr.com/photos/thewhir/sets, facebook.com/theWHIR, www.thewhir.com/whir-events
Self-description: "Web Host Industry Review is the largest news organization and consumer resource dedicated to the web hosting industry, publishing since 2000.

WHIR Events are a chance to do face-to-face business and networking with executives, solution providers and corporate decision makers in a relaxed environment with complimentary drinks and appetizers. Our goal is to provide a local venue for you to do business, make new connections and learn more about those in our exciting industry."
Frequency/Location: Appears to be once a year per city (bur LA's has passed already this year) / 10 cities in the US and Canada
Cost: Free?
Review: None
Added 2/15/2010 by Todd Zebert

Name: Marketing Executives Networking Group (MENG)
Sites: www.mengonline.com, twitter.com/mengonline
Self-description: "MENG is a national network of top-level marketing executives. The organization is devoted to enhancing its members' professional skills, relationships, and knowledge and prides itself on a culture of genuine camaraderie.

MENG is structured as a not-for-profit membership organization and are governed by a 15-person Board of Directors. We have a Program Director that organizes national programs open to all MENG members. In addition, we have numerous local Chapters, Special Interest Groups, and ad hoc working Committees through which we accomplish our goals.

Not all interaction is local; MENG member share many common interests, including industry ties and areas of expertise. That's why MENG created Special Interest Groups.

MENG is a very active organization! There are many activities going on at the national and local level at any one given time.

* Chapter Events: See examples of upcoming events at the local MENG chapters.
* Special Interest Group Events: Upcoming Special Interest Group events may be listed here.
* Calendar of Upcoming Events: See a snapshot of all upcoming events.
* Upcoming Industry Events: See upcoming conferences that MENG is sponsoring or recommending to marketers
* Webinars: MENG offers more than 30 webinars every year - learn about upcoming topics"
Frequency/Location: Varies / "MENG has local chapters in 12 major cities in the continental United States."
Cost: "Membership fee is $400 the first year which includes the registration fee of $200 plus annual dues of $200. After the first year MENG dues are $200 annually."
Review: None
Added 2/15/2010 by Todd Zebert

Name: Technology Executives Networking Group (TENG)
Sites: www.theteng.org, finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/TENG-Discussion (members only), Southern California TENG (SoCalTENG) LinkedIn Group
Self-description: "The Technology Executives Networking Group. LLC (TENG) is a professional community of selected Chief Information Officers, Chief Technology Officers, vice presidents and directors of technology with organizations ranging from startups to the global Fortune 100, from non-profits to government agencies.

TENG members provide each other with a wide range of benefits, including unbiased vendor references, introductions to key contacts in target organizations, insights into business and technology strategies, access to new career opportunities, and a wealth of shared experiences, advice, and support."
Frequency/Location: Varies / "TENG delivers business resources through regional chapters in 13 major metropolitan areas in the United States and a network of more than 4,500 members, nationwide."
Cost: Unknown
Review: None
Added 2/15/2010 by Todd Zebert

Name: Financial Executives International (FEI)
Sites: www.financialexecutives.org, linkedin.com/groups?gid=49573, financialexecutives.blogspot.com, facebook.com/group.php?gid=5007487404, fei.mashnetworks.com, twitter.com/feiblog
Self-description: "FEI's mission is to advance the success of senior-level financial executives, their organizations and the profession.

We strive to be recognized globally as the leading organization for senior-level financial executives. Since 1931, FEI has been connecting members through:

* interaction: providing local and international forums for connecting with peers
* information: providing insight to assist with informed business decisions
* influence: providing authoritative representation for members’ interests
* integrity: providing the tools to advance the profession through ethical leadership

Events and Conferences: knowledge and networking opportunities for financial executives"
Frequency/Location: Varies / "86 chapters across the U.S. and Canada"
Cost: "Annual dues are $495, local chapter dues are additional and vary by chapter. There is an application fee of $250. "
Review: None
Added 2/15/2010 by Todd Zebert

Name: Choice Career Fairs
Review: I arriving at noon at their 2/11/10 LA event, which was scheduled from 10:30a to 2p at the LA Convention Center. With no greater detail provided, I eventually determined that I could park at the South Hall; parking was a steep $12 but I noticed $8-$9 lots across the street. Once inside it was difficult to determine that it was being held in a Concourse meeting room.

Outside the room was a sign-in table that was adequately staffed for the handful of attendees there at any time. If you pre-registered and had you emailed "Line Pass" you got a flyer and went right in, otherwise you had to fill out a short form. The flyer included a list of the Participating Companies and also a list of the jobs titles available. While I was taking note of the event, I was approached by someone who apparently worked for the event, who offered to help me and also had a list of job titles by company. Not sure why the flyer the attendees were given didn't include that information. The room was about 50' x 80' with 20 booths. Six of the booths were colleges or universities, a seemingly high percentage. A couple other companies included an "entrepreneurial home business", a couple that were more skilled verse professional, and a couple that were mostly sales.

There were about 100 attendees - it wasn't crowded. Dress was mixed, from suits and ties to jeans and t-shirts, although most men were wearing coats and ties; I went with a suit, no tie. There were essentially no lines at any of the booths except for about a dozen people waiting very patiently for the free resume/cover letter review person.

They sent a "Job List" email three days prior to the event, and even updated it the day before. Unfortunately, I nearly didn't see them as were in my GMail Spam folder and marked with the warning "This message may not be from whom it claims to be. Beware of following any links in it or of providing the sender with any personal information." I'm not sure what they are doing to appear illegitimate but they should fix it.
Updated 2/15/2010 by Todd Zebert

Networking & Social Media Job Search Webinars, Teleconferences and Podcasts

Name: Layoff Bounce Back - Sharon Rich
Sites: layoffbounceback.com, leadershipincorporated.wordpress.com, twitter.com/sharonrich
Updated 2/15/2010 by Todd Zebert

SoCal Educational Networking & Job Search Organizations

No updates this week.

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.
  • Volunteer - Network while doing "good".
  • Other - keep your mind open.

Monday, February 15, 2010

Linger like a Butterfly, BUZZ like a Bee

With Google's new offering, Buzz, they show once again that they want all your data and they don't ever want you to float away. It's like "Gluegol", stick around. It's enticing.

Google's picked and choose from the buffet of Twitter, Facebook, FourSquare, and FriendFeed features plus some original ones, but it is a compelling dish?  It's certainly has a beautiful slick presentation, and presumably since it's built on Google's architecture it shouldn't face the scaling problems Twitter has.  With all those Gmail "no setup needed" users plus feed from all the Google content sites, it's already well populated.

But, there's those pesky privacy issues... Ironically, you can Google for them.

For now, I'm trying to figure out if it's best as an aggregator, or a "walled garden".  One thing is for certain, this is a developing product...

Follow me and we'll figure it out at Todd Zebert's Buzz

Friday, January 29, 2010

Job Search Resources Weekly Update - 1/29/2010

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

Happy New Year everyone! Let's get your networkin' on for 2010.

UPDATED: previously I had stated these updates were not included in the full listing, but I overcame IE's limitations by moving to Chrome and so affected the updates.

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

5 new and 7 updates in SoCal Networking Event Organizations.

1 update to Networking & Social Media Job Search Webinars, Teleconferences and Podcasts.

No changes in SoCal Educational Networking & Job Search Organizations.

1 update and 1 new in Other & Indirect Job Networking Opportunities

SoCal Networking Event Organizations

Name: Challenger Networking Group (CA)
Frequency/Location: First and third Tuesdays of the month, Zen Buffet, 21610 Victory Blvd. Woodland Hills, CA. 91367 "Parking: Free - Dress: Casual. No need to RSVP"
Frequency/Location: Second Tuesdays of the month, Brandman University, 16355 Laguna Canyon Road. Irvine, CA 92618 (corner of Alton Parkway and Laguna Canyon in the Irvine Spectrum area) "Lunch: $10(Cash or check). Parking: Free, Dress: Casual, Please RSVP to Pete so we order enough food."
Review: There's a different speaker at every meeting. The Orange County meeting is new for 2009. 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. While the majority of the people attending are job seekers, because of the speakers and high quality of the attendees, some are employed professionals. Dress is business casual. Recommended.
Updated 1/24/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: 140 Characters Conference (#140conf) Exploring the State of Now
Sites: 140conf.com, Friends of #140conf Facebook Page, #140conf Twitter tag, meetup.com/140conf, Oganizer: twitter.com/jeffpulver, jeffpulver.com
Self-description: "The original scope of #140conf was to explore “the effects of twitter on: Celebrity, “The Media”, Advertising and (maybe) Politics.” Over time the scope expanded to look at the effects of twitter on topics ranging from public safety to public diplomacy.

The first #140conf in New York City brought together people with many diverse backgrounds but the one thing which everyone had in common was twitter. The schedule for the event was unique and fast paced. It was my intention to provide a platform for as many people as possible to share their thoughts and engage in conversation with the attending delegates. You will find individual talks set to: 10 minutes; “Featured talks” 15 and 20 minutes and the various panel discussions are set for 15 and 20 minutes.

The take aways from this event will provide the attending delegates knowledge, perspectives and insights to the next wave of effects twitter and the real-time internet will have on business."
Frequency/Location: About monthly / Previous sites include Los Angeles, New York, London, and Tel Aviv, and in 2010 sites include Philly, Boston, London, Nairobi, Barcelona, DC, etc.
Cost: "Starting with #140conf NYC ‘10, the ticket prices will be more reflective of the cost to attend the theater and/or a music concert in New York City than a typical tech event ... this translates to a cost of $50 to $70 a day." VIP tickets and benefits are available also.
Review: Since my original review of the 12/14/09 LA #140conf, I've found out their regular events are much more involved: 2 full days of panels and speakers. The 12/14/09 LA Event was an evening only (and free) - it's only fitting I use my tweet:
Updated 1/24/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: Executive Networking & Technology Group - ExecTec of LA
Review: Each dinner has a different topic and "everyone participates in a round table discussion." I've attended three of them now. While there was only three of us the first time, there were nearly twenty another. While Joel Ordesky, the organizer, introduces the topic and generally keeps things moving, the conversation was unstructured. It lasts for about 2 hrs. This isn't the standard meet-as-many-people-as-you-can networking event; it's about deep biz/tec conversations and making good connections. Dress is business casual.
Updated 1/24/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: Social Media Club Los Angeles (SMCLA)
Review: I attended their event 'Dating & Relationships "The Game Has Changed"' mid January which was centered on a panel of 4 speakers. Unfortunately, there was an issue with the venue and they wouldn't turn down the ambient music, plus our area was cramped. The organizer was apologetic. There were about 40 attendees who stuck it out, but others left or never really entered. While difficult to hear, the panelists were interesting and afterwards they were very approachable. The evening began with general networking, then the panel, then more networking as people slowly left. I look forward to their next event. Dress was casual to business casual. Attendees were in their 30's and primarily in in media, advertising, marketing and related fields.
Updated 1/24/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: Startups Uncensored
Frequency/Location: Monthly / Santa Monica Public Library (Auditorium), 601 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90401
Review: I attended 1/19/10's "Building an Online Brand" with panelists Sean Moriarty, former CEO of TicketMaster, and Blake Irving, a former Corporate Vice President at Microsoft. Jason hosts the panel and leads them through the discussion and Q&A. It's informative, honest and at times irreverent. The venue is excellent for this type of event and is packed. Expect to stand in line regardless of whether you RSVP'd prior - although make use of your time and network! After Q&A attendees are invited back to the DocStoc offices (around the corner) for free food and drinks (hard and soft) and great networking. Attendees were in their 30's to 40's; when Jason asked for a show of hands of those who had started a company or planned too essentially every hand went out; Internet based businesses dominated. Recommended.
Updated 1/26/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: Media Leaders
Review: I've now attended two Media Leaders events. Both were at dark, noisy venues (Bodega Wine Bar in Santa Monica, and the Other Room in Venice) - making it a bit tough to recognize people, read name tags and business cards. Parking in SM can be tough, but not as bad as in Venice. Despite that, they are successful! Each had upwards of 100 attendees. Attire was mostly casual dressy. The attendees were broadly in "media", friendly, interesting, and averaged about 30 years old. As you RSVP you get to see the names and select info (company, position, twitter, web page) that others opt to share. Media Leaders also has groups in select cities across the US.
Updated 1/27/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: Experience Unlimited Job Clubs - part of California Employment Development Department (EDD)
Sites: www.edd.ca.gov/jobs_and_training/Experience_Unlimited_Local_Information.htm, Simi Valley Chapter/Club
Self-description: "Are you a professional who is out of a job? Many motivated and highly qualified individuals who have unexpectedly found themselves out of work are networking through Experience Unlimited “job clubs” to find new employment opportunities. The Employment Development Department's (EDD) Experience Unlimited services are available at select locations throughout the State. A wide range of professional, technical, and managerial job seekers participate in these voluntary, networking groups to lend one another job hunting assistance and direction. There are no fees for either job seekers or employers.

What is Experience Unlimited?

Provided at no fee, the program provides a place where job seekers can meet regularly with other career professionals to share job leads, provide support, and update their job search skills.
Resources include:

* Workshops on job search strategies, résumés, interview techniques, and networking
* Résumé evaluations and mock interviews
* Networking opportunities
* Access to on-line job listings
* On-line résumé postings through CalJOBSSM
* Special events and guest speakers
* Use of computers, printers, copiers, telephone, fax, and Internet

Who should become a member?

Any unemployed or underemployed person in a professional, managerial, or technical field.

Membership information

Experience Unlimited participation is self-directed. Members engage in job seeking activities under the general guidance of an EDD facilitator and actively seek job openings and interviews. During the search for work, members act as a networking and support group, providing advice and encouragement. All members begin by attending an orientation followed by a variety of workshops on such topics as job search training, résumé writing, and interview techniques."
Frequency/Location: Varies by club from daily to monthly. See link above for local club listings in SoCal: Anaheim, Canoga Park, Corona, Irvine, Lancaster, Pasadena, Simi Valley, Torrance, West Covina.
Cost: Free
Review: None
Added 1/27/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: FundingPost
Sites: www.fundingpost.com, twitter.com/fundingpost, facebook.com/fundingpost, FundingPost Events
Self-description: "The FundingPost.com mission is simple:
To introduce Entrepreneurs to interested VCs and Angel Investors.

For over Nine Years FundingPost has worked to bring entrepreneurs together with leading investors worldwide. We believe that it is important to reach investors in every medium possible - both online and offline.

Through our successful Venture Capital Events, Venture Guide Publications and magazine, and our online Venture Exchange, FundingPost has had the opportunity to work with thousands of Angel and Venture Capital investors representing over $106.5 Billion. We make an introduction from an Investor to an entrepreneur through our online exchange Every Day!

We've seen Millions and Millions of Dollars raised as a direct result of our Online Exchange, our Magazine, and our Events.

We are the single largest venture exchange in the country. We work with more Real Accredited Angel Investors, VC Firms and entrepreneurs than anyone else. We have a dedicated team that works hard to make introductions every single day. "
Frequency/Location: Multiple times a month/multiple cities across the US. "FundingPost has hosted 150+ sold-out venture events in 18 cities over the past 8 years."
Cost: Seems to vary from $30 to $125
Review: None
Added 1/24/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: Choice Career Fairs
Sites: www.choicecareerfairs.com, www.choicecareerfairs.com/losangeles-jobs
Self-description: "You'll meet face to face with hiring decision-makers from some of the areas top employers. Dress professionally and bring plenty of resumes, because they are there to hire.

Just walk in and start interviewing, it's that simple. You can save time, money and effort interviewing with multiple companies in one day at one location. Many of these companies have several openings and are eager to meet with you. You will no longer be just a piece of paper, you can get right in front of the decision makers attending this event.

Why attend a Career Fair?
Interview for hundreds of positions in one day!!!
Spend an hour and you may leave with a career.
Get your foot in the door.
Put a face with your resume.
Immediate response.
Eliminate the expense of mailing and faxing your resume.
A great way to network.
A relaxed interviewing atmosphere.
Let the companies fight for you.
Improve your chances of finding a job.
Select the job you want.
Select the company you want to talk with.
You can take control of your job search.
Mass market yourself.
No more small newspaper ads. "
Frequency/Location: Multiple times a month/multiple cities across the US
Cost: Free
Review: None
Added 1/28/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: Diverse Careers
Sites: www.diversecareers.com,
Self-description: "DIVERSE CAREERS, INC. is a job board website and career fair management company. Diverse Careers, Inc. is proud to promote and support Diversity and Inclusion in the workplace. Our commitment is to support diversity within the community by becoming involved with community organizations, individuals, and corporate entities that support and value a diverse environment and culture.

THE MISSION of Diverse Careers, Inc. is to connect the best talented job seekers with great companies while supporting Diversity and Inclusion in the workplace.

OUR JOB BOARD WEBSITE, www.diversecareers.com, attracts thousands of job seekers every month looking for new career opportunities. Employers may purchase individual job postings, unlimited job posting plans, featured employer spots, banner advertisements, and access to our resume database.

CAREERS FAIRS are held in Southern California and have been cited as one of the best recruiting events. Career fairs are currently held in San Diego, Los Angeles, Orange County, and Inland Empire. Diverse Careers, Inc. works with numerous Fortune 500 companies from various industries. Meet hundreds of diverse candidates face to face at any of our upcoming events."
Frequency/Location: About monthly / A few cities in Southern California (See list in description above)
Cost: "FREE TO JOB SEEKERS | NO PRE-REGISTRATION"
Review: None
Added 1/28/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: Career BridgeBuilders (American Martyrs Parish)
Sites: careerbridgebuilders.orgEvents, linkedin.com/groups?gid=2010830
Self-description: "Our members are business leaders, executives and professionals who seek to exchange ideas, network and work with other high quality peers to create mutual prosperity. For potential employers, BridgeBuilders offers an opportunity to connect with talented, qualified and community-minded people who also share common Christian values.

BridgeBuilders hosts at least one event each month. Events include:

Networking Sessions - Our structured networking events are designed to provide an environment where employers and the local community come together to share their professional contacts and help each other through these challenging economic times.

Speaker series - Leaders in the business community are featured and cover topics ranging from financial trends, new technologies, business development, and job transition strategies.

Workshops – These workshops are designed to help job seekers meet the demands of a competitive job market by:

* Developing effective job search strategies
* Creating your personal 30 second commercial pitch
* Understanding how to negotiate and evaluate job offers
* Writing a resume that will get the attention of the hiring manager

Monday Morning Starters - We meet weekly to offer each other support, exchange ideas and create an action plan for the week ahead. This is for Job seekers only and starts immediately after the 8:00am mass."
Frequency/Location: "Monday Morning Starters" 8:45am / The Spirituality Center, 770 17th Street, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266. Other events monthly as scheduled.
Cost: Free
Review: None
Added 1/28/10 by Todd Zebert

Name: Convergence Technology Council (CTC)
Sites: thectcnetwork.org, twitter.com/thectcnetwork, www.ustream.tv/channel/thectcnetwork
Review: I finally had a chance to a much-anticipated CTC Meeting. Attendees follow the sign for dinner, check in, get a name tag and any handouts. The food by Basu's Homestyle Indian Cuisine (this time?) was excellent and dinning family-style at long tables; during dinner is your best chance to network - introduce yourself. Each event has a topic and a couple presenters hosted by Robin Borough. Following each presenter was a short Q&A. While it wraps by 8:30ish (they have to be out of the venue by 9pm), the networking continues in the parking lot, and sometimes heads to the Marmalade Cafe at the Calabasas Commons down the street. Robin wrapped the event with a business card raffle. The venue is excellent for presentations, with chairs, tables, projector, sound system and snacks (mixed nuts, M&M's and candy) on the tables! Their "Innovation 2.0" event on 1/28/10 pulled in approximately 75 attendees, while 20-50 are common. Dress was business casual to more formal with perhaps 1/3rd of the men with coats, and I saw at least 2 ties. Attendees averaged in their 40's and were predominantly men. Recommended. See also "Omnikron - Competing for Your Future - Robin Borough" (updated below)
Updated 1/28/10 by Todd Zebert

Networking & Social Media Job Search Webinars, Teleconferences and Podcasts

Name: Omnikron - Competing for Your Future - Robin Borough
Sites: www.your-career-now.com, omnikron.typepad.com/careers/links.html, twitter.com/robinborough
Updated 1/28/10 by Todd Zebert

SoCal Educational Networking & Job Search Organizations

No updates this week.

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.
  • Volunteer - Network while doing "good".
  • Other - keep your mind open.

Monday, December 21, 2009

Job Search Resources Weekly Update - 12/21/09

I'd like to wish everyone peace and happiness this holiday season! No updates this week.

Check out the Holiday Season Networking Advice from a few weeks back.

For more info check out these links:
Please take just a second to answer my poll (top-right): What day of the week would you like to see the "Job Search Resources Weekly Update" published?.

Thanks!

Friday, December 18, 2009

Privacy is in the Eye Pocketbook of the Beholder

Facebook sues to protect its users’ privacy from phishing spammers while being struck with a complaint by EPIC for reducing its users’ privacy. This is not so much about upholding privacy but rather deciding who makes money from personal information.

On 12/14/09 Facebook filed a lawsuit against alleged spammers (PDF):
This action arises from … theft and misuse of the usernames and passwords of Facebook users to gain unauthorized access … and send … (SPAM) to Facebook Users. Defendants’ SPAM directs unsuspecting recipients … to third-party commercial websites that pay Defendants for driving traffic to their websites.

On 12/17/09 The Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC) filed a complaint with the FTC (PDF):
Facebook’s changes to users’ privacy settings disclose personal information to the public that was previously restricted. Facebook’s changes to users’ privacy settings also disclose personal information to third parties that was previously not available. These changes violate user expectations, diminish user privacy, and contradict Facebook’s own representations.
I recently wrote a blog on Facebook’s new privacy settings and “Transition Tool” where I urged users to NOT take the default “Everyone” settings.

Of course, why did Facebook make these changes? Making Facebook “more open and connected” plus Facebook's agreement with Search Engines drives more traffic to Facebook webpages. This results in more advertising dollars for Facebook.

Not that Facebook’s and the spammers’ actions are the same, but in the end it comes down to others gaining financially from a reduction in users’ privacy.

Look for further “improvements” (read: reduction) in privacy from Facebook in the future, and in general carefully consider what information you share in any social networking/media site.