Job Search Networking Metrics

Over the years I have attended many networking meetings and have met with countless people in transition. I'm often asked

"Are you aware of any metrics for networking during job search?"

This is a cry for information... for a simple guide that can be utilized as a benchmark for activity level and help keep people on task, moving in the right direction.

Not long ago, I had the pleasure of attending a presentation on Power Networking by Paul Duski, of Robertson Lowstuter. Paul presented to a full room of HRMAC members. His presentation was well crafted and chock full of useful information and very comprehensive. The graphic below represents some key information captured from the power networking presentation in the form of a one pager, helpful reference tool. Clicking on the graphic will yield a larger, more readable version.

Chicago VP HR Market Heats Up

Recently, I had the pleasure of having a conversation regarding the Chicago Human Resources job market with Paul Schneider, partner with SSP, an outplacement and executive coaching firm with offices in Oakbrook Terrace, Chicago, Deerfield, Racine, WI and St. Louis, MO. Long recognized as an HR networking icon and HR market authority in Chicago, Paul seems to know where senior leadership is on the "Chicago HR Chess Board" at any given moment and what moves are about to take place. Consequently, our conversation focused on what the Chicago market looked like at the Vice President, Human Resources level.

Since 2002, Paul has compiled market data which he regularly shares in his newsletter,SSP Perspective.

Acccording to Paul,

"The Senior VP HR Market looks strong - It's up over 40% compared to this time last year - These VP openings are the bell weather of how the economy is growing."

The data indicates that there are 21 openings in Q1 2007 as opposed to just 15 at this time a year ago. This undoubtably will have a trickle down effect for positions reporting into the VP level. Good news indeed for those seeking senior level HR opportunities and networking in the Chicago market.