Part II Networking Event July 26-What I Learned

Part II of my original Post of what I learned at a networking event.  During the first event I was alerted to another networking event for IT individuals that is scheduled monthly at a local Sheraton Hotel in Jacksonville, FL, on Gate Parkway off of JTB. 

Sheraton Hotel Networking Event July 26, 2012

This event is something that I read about on twitter posts, blogs, and newsletters where you get to know people and when asked share your brand and experiences. I wasn't sure exactly who the host was at the start, but it is part of Robert Half Technologies via Linked In, what I understand.  I made sure I'm on future lists.   There was also a Jacksonville Business Journal representative there as well.

I met about ten individuals, mostly job seekers like myself but shared interests in various fields. Also was introduced to a few other individuals that may lead to other networking contacts.  I met a few where the conversation was casual then went to "what do you do?" and realized later that was my intro to explain my personal brand and what I have to offer.  I stumbled, but regrouped.  One individual reviewed my resume and found a few gaffes I made during updating, I was embarrassed. But I was thankful someone caught it.  I was also offered some additional advice such as; always be prepared to announce who you are, and if I have to use the back of my network card to help me focus.  Also, always read your resume edits out loud and you'll catch your gaffes before someone else will. The last thing I learned is I was told my resume is ready after the recommended changes, and I need to brush up on old skills to become more marketable, which I plan on this weekend.

All in all I plan on attending more events, if anything it is helping me focus, become more confident, and meeting new people is always good not necessarily finding a job, but at least find new friends along the way.

I recommend finding events and attending, I most certainly will.

Oliver