Events to help you declare your job-search independence -- Career Center Blog

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July 3, 2010

Events to help you declare your job-search independence

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By Randy Woods
NWjobs

There may be a lot of rockets' red glare and bombs bursting in air this weekend, but for many Seattleites looking for work there has not been much worth celebrating these days. The latest job creation figures from the Feds were expected to drop with the expiration of the U.S. Census jobs nationwide, but the news still felt like a wet blanket on what was shaping up to be a vigorous economic recovery this summer.

To use our country's Founding Fathers as an example, the key to finding a job is not about waiting for outside indicators to change in your favor but to create your own opportunities and take charge of your own destiny. It's no accident that many of the upcoming events I've gathered below are geared toward self-starters and entrepreneurial people who are not waiting for want-ads to fall in their lap.

While you celebrate our nation's 234th birthday this weekend, declare your own independence from the online job boards and check out this roundup of liberating networking opportunities. It's time to get out there this summer and establish the personal business contacts that are the cornerstone of any successful job search. Happy 4th, everyone!

MON., JULY 5

Beginning a Job Search - Recently laid off and just starting to look for work? This free workshop will teach you how to develop a successful job search strategy and create a work plan to suit your skills and situation. Where: Seattle Central Library, Downtown. When: 4:30 to 6 p.m. Cost: Free.

WED., JULY 7

Small Business Success Story - This morning Biznik seminar and networking opportunity for local entrepreneurs will feature short presentations by A Liengboonlertchai, owner of Simplicity Deco, and Len McAdams, owner of McAdams Builders, who will share the secrets of their success. A Q&A session and refreshments will follow. Where: Simplicity Decor, Kirkland. When: 7:30 to 9 a.m. Cost: Free, but seating is limited so please RSVP.

Multi-Organization Networking Event - Sponsored by Eastside Entrepreneurs, Dale Warren's Networking Groups, the Eastside Business Association and other organizations, this informal happy hour event will feature food and drink specials and door prizes. Where: Laughs Comedy Spot, Kirkland. When: 5 to 8 p.m. Cost: Free; pay for what you eat and drink.

THURS., JULY 8

Networking in Issaquah - Richard Gabel of Humerlis will host this entrepreneurial business mixer that will allow you to network with people who share your interest in expanding business contacts. Refreshments will be included. Where: Meadow Creek Professional Center, Issaquah. When: 5 to 7 p.m. Cost: Free; donations will be accepted.

FRI. & SAT., JULY 9-10

University of Phoenix Career Expo - This two-day expo will provide an opportunity to meet with 15 to 20 employers and attend resume reviews and workshops. Career expert Anthonio Vianna will also be on hand to offer tips about getting hiring managers to notice you. Where: University of Phoenix Tukwila Learning Center, Tukwila. When: July 9: 6 to 8 p.m.; July 10: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost: Free.

MON., JULY 12

Healthcare Practitioners Ice Cream Social - This get-together is targeted specifically to local healthcare practitioners. Attendees will break into small groups to brainstorm about various job search topics, followed by a half-hour networking session. Where: Bluebird, Capitol Hill. When: Noon to 1:30 p.m. Cost: Free.

TUES., JULY 13

Eastside After-Hours Networking - Sponsored by Women Business Owners, this event gives you chance to meet Eastside-based business owners while also learning how to create unique appetizers. Where: Sizzleworks Cooking School, Bellevue. When: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Cost: $25 for members; $30 for nonmembers; $5 more after July 12.

FRI., JULY 16

Toast of Seattle - Normally for members only, this long-running Greater Seattle Chamber of Commerce event will be open to all comers this month, allowing you a rare chance to meet for breakfast with some of Seattle's top business leaders in three structured networking rounds. More than 20 businesses and 150 attendees are expected. Where: Columbia Tower Club, Seattle. When: 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. Cost: $15 pre-paid; $20 after July 14.

Randy Woods writes about job-search tools, networking techniques and other tips to help you land your dream job.