Is Networking the Answer?

[Rich Shadrin]

I sure hope so. After steady employment and consulting since 2000 I am in the unenviable position of being on an involuntary vacation. Vincent suggested I reach out to the network and explore what kinds of help I might receive.
With that in mind I am requesting assistance from all of you kind folks to direct some ideas or opportunities in my direction.

I am a well-regarded learning and development leader, with many other skill sets, management experience and project leadership in a cross section of sectors for many different kinds of organizations - from IBM to a small architectural business down the street.

And I must say I have always paid my way forward doing for so many others what I trust folks will now do for me. So if any of you have opps or connections, ideas, leads or support of any kind, I would be most grateful.

I have attached my resume for your perusal.

[Russ Wickstrom]

Rich:

Perhaps you could tell us what type(s) of positions you would consider, and whether or not you would accept a relocation.

Also, you might want to change your profile here and on LinkedIn to point to a personal email address, rather than an address that might go away.

[Rich Shadrin]

Russ:
Thanks for the timely reply.
No worries concerning the email address as it's my own company.
Looking for either FT or consulting as a learning development leader, senior content or instructional designer, presentation designer or information designer. I have held exec positions as high as SVP but I'm not "title bound."

Hope I've answered your questions and look forward to further conversations.

Regards.
Rich

[Philip Clint]

As a relatively new to networking, and in a position looking for opportunities, I probably have a fresh view and possibly some thoughts that may trigger some new thinking.
Networking is an excellent way to help promote yourself as well as be in contact with many people who may be able to help. I find it is a softer approach to marketing yourself, however I am not sure it will solely work for everyone at the moment.
There are many ways to move forward, some of which are not as pleasant. For example in the UK I use low cost methods to push my CV and gain opportunities. This has included faxing which brought a higher than normal return and got a number of people to talk too and discuss opportunities.

Yes it is a direct approach and not suited to the faint hearted.

I think the point is that if you use networking as your marketing tool as well as a social choice, other tools are available to add to your search for business toolbox.

Being objective is important and sitting down to write some new ways of improving your existing facilities and appraising new ideas is time worth spent, in my opinion.

I hope this is helpful,

best wishes

Phil