This document provides 5 out-of-the-box job networking strategies for 2010: 1) Write recommendations for connections on LinkedIn and have them do the same to help each other and potentially find new opportunities. 2) Host your own networking events among your connections to meet new people and find potential business partners. 3) Create a Facebook fan page to build an online community and share job search updates to expand your network. 4) Get on local radio shows either as a guest or host to promote your expertise and field to a wider audience and make new connections. 5) Have children help pass out your business cards carefully to others who may have potential job opportunities.

1. 5 Out-of-the-Box Job Networking Strategies for 2010

2. Put others before self…Write recommendations for your connections on Linked In, and vice versa. Former co-workers would love this, and probably were too shy to ask. In some cases, it may not hurt to write recommendations without expecting back.

3. An Event Starring YOU!Sponsor your own networking event among your own network of connections. Send invitations to meet at a place that will provide the best networking ambiance (it could be at your house or not). There are other potential business hookups may happen because of you, and has nothing to do with you are OK.

4. Facebook fan pageCreate your own Facebook fan page and ask people in your network to join. Build your own community and every now and then offer updates, and treat it like your fan base. If other people help others with their job search, so be it. It should make you feel really good. By the way, a great benefit is that it’s easy upkeep, and after 25 fans join you can create your own URL.

5. Tell It To The WorldGet on the radio. Small stations with public affair, community, and college formats would be flexible in finding an angle for you. Take advantage of upcoming slow news cycles, which would increase your chances of broadcasting your expertise in your field to the world in either as an interviewee or host. There are some former co-workers who should be interesting to talk to and help promote your cause.

6. Teach Your Children WellThe small kids have no fear. I wouldn’t coach them to say that “My Daddy needs a job” but they could be helpful in passing personal business cards in CONTROLLED situations. These days you have to be an evangelist in your job search by asking for information, diffusing any begging you may be tempted to do.

7. Out of the Box StrategiesIf my suggestions are not completely original, at least my presentation and take is slightly different than most. Below are blog posts of networking strategies that have been written before (not just mine), and are quite useful. Hopefully, you can find them useful.