Job Searching in Washington, DC Part 2

Resources for Developing Professional Relationships

• The Washington Network Group (WNG) is an active membership organization for professionals in business, technology, finance, and foreign and government affairs. The group helps members through special networking events, educational forums and roundtables--nationally and internationally--on a wide range of topics including entrepreneurship. WNG is an excellent career counseling and networking resource. Membership is $90 a year.
• Meetup.com makes it easy for anyone in a Washington job search to find local groups that are already meeting face-to-face. For example, if you do a search on Meetup.com with the terms “networking for Job seekers” by city (Washington, District of Columbia), you’ll get an up-to-date listing of thirteen different networking groups.

  Some of these meetings are organized by executive search groups, some are support groups for career job hunters. A search under the term “veterans” turned up sixteen different groups. You can even take the initiative to start your own Meetup.com group and demonstrate your initiative and leadership ability.

In many ways, a Washington job search is like any other. The same sequence of activities applies: self assessment; job market research; developing your strategy; marketing yourself, you abilities and experience; networking; putting together an effective resume and cover letter; learning how to nail the interview and negotiate your compensation package.

At the same time, remember that you are working within one of the biggest professional networks in the world. Keep focused, stay out there, remain positive, and make the case for the value you bring.



Job Searching in Washington, DC

The rules of networking and social engagement for a Washington job search have changed with social media. Even Uncle Sam is not immune. Leveraging social media and social networking is now part and parcel of the job search process. While social media is not a complete replacement for going out to meet-'n-greet through job fairs and other networking activities, it often does produce results that are unexpected, even serendipitous.

Here are some social media and conventional networking opportunities. Start with LinkedIn, where you'll find several government-related networking groups.

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