Get Hired! Virginia FAQ's

The purpose of this blog post is to provide questions and answers for all participantsat the Get Hired! Virginia Event on Tuesday, October 27, 2009.For the story behind the event, please reference thisrecentarticle.This important information will be updated regularly so we encourage participants to stay connected. Thanks!Here are the latest event FAQs:Q: What is the purpose of the Get Hired! Virginia - Career Speed Networking Experience?A: To drive out local unemployment and grow the regional economy. And to raise money for a great charity.Q: Is this a job fair?A: No! (and that's a good thing). This event is intentionally different

A New Way to Network

We all recognize that to be successful in our careers, we need to network with other professionals at every opportunity.This rule applies not only to job seekers, but also to active professionals and entrepreneurs.Our most valuable relationships are not managed via email, LinkedIn, or Twitter. They are managed in person. And yet, our typical events for networking (career fairs, conferences, and work the room receptions) are well, not a lot of fun. Why? Because this form of networking is stressful and ineffective for a lot of professionals (myself included). How many professionals do we honestly meet at one of these events?

How to Use Twitter to Connect LinkedIn Group Members

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 70 percent of all jobs are found through networking. Dan Schawbel in an article on Mashable noted it is as high as 80 percent.So with LinkedIn membership increasing by one professional every second, how do you expand your network beyond the professionals with whom you have a direct relationship?One opportunity may be to build a network bridge between LinkedIn and Twitter, and capitalize on a key benefit of each. LinkedIn promotes group memberships (e.g. by profession, college alumni, shared interest, or location) but outside of your immediate contacts, you are unlikely to go

8 Ways to Express Gratitude in a Job Interview

As poor economic news can seem overwhelming, it is important that we keep in mind that American workers still have the talent and ambition to grow this economy.One of the simplest ways to inspire a hiring manager to extend a job offer is also one of the most easily overlooked and that is to express gratitude.“There is more hunger…for love and appreciation in this world than for bread.” - Mother TeresaWhenever I drive my car in the morning, I have gotten in the habit of recognizing at least 10 things I am thankful for before I turn on the radio. I may express gratitude for