At first networking, for me, was quite the challenge.  Who do I talk to?  Where do I find these people?  I can’t talk to strangers very easily, and so on.  Basically I was talking myself out of networking at all.    

I found out very quickly that if I didn’t start to network and do it well, I was not going to get back to work.  Now I network with everyone I come across.  It really doesn’t matter if I know them or not.  I network with people at networking groups, gas stations, grocery stores, drug stores, doctors' office, dentists' offices, my kid's schools, my wife’s consortium group, restaurants, coffee shops, and a host of other places as well.  If they themselves can’t help me, I ask for references of those they may know who may be able to help me.  I have even received further contacts from interviews themselves. 

If I overhear two or more people talking about how their organization needs help with this or that, I will excuse myself and tell them that, “ I could not help but overhear you talking about problem issues and I am able to be a solution for those issues”.  I don’t stay long but, I do give them my two minute elevator speech and a business card or resume if it is appropriate.  Then I request to set up a meeting time when we can get together and talk about their issues in more detail.  This works well and I have had a lot of what I consider to be real job interviews.  I have actually gotten consulting jobs doing this.  The point I am trying to make is that your networking can be with anyone at anytime.  Don’t limit yourself.  Step out and take a chance as you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.    

Try it just a few times and you will see how well it really works.  I also work with about 20 different recruiters and I keep in touch with them every two weeks to let them know I am still here and available for work.  They all call me when they have opportunities because they remember who I am and my work passions. They remember because “I” keep in touch with them.  I do not rely on them calling me as they are way too busy and can’t possibly have the time to call all their candidates back every week or so.