Over on CareerBuilder, there is an article about networking in affinity or non-professional circles that is worth taking a look at. Affinity groups offer some of the best opportunities for networking for a job search because the original bond was created based on the common connection, interest or hobby, not the fact that you are looking for a job. Affinity groups allow your to develop trust and rapport before moving on to the subject of job search. If trust has been previously established, it’s much easier to start a conversation about your job search without having it look like you are asking for a favor. Here are a few more offline affinity groups worth exploring.
- The PTA. Members of parent groups are passionate advocates for their children’s education. Affinity groups fueled by passion create members with strong bonds and members of groups such as these are more likely to help others because of their strong sense of community and connection.
- Local house of worship. Religion is an immediate connector for many people. A church, synagogue, or mosque represents the ultimate community for many and members are very likely to help others in their time of need.
- The train or bus. In many communities, people take the same method of transportation at the same time every day and they see the same people. These people often form relationships simply because they happen to commute together. These same people may be excellent resources for job leads.
- The porch or lobby. I’ve started a lot of great conversations with people while waiting for the elevator in my lobby. And my homeowner friends start conversations by sitting on their porches and chatting with the neighbors who are nearby.
- The line at the post office, motor vehicles, and the supermarket checkout. It happens. Many people report making new connections with strangers solely because they both happened to be stuck on the same line at the same time. You never know!