“ good ”

— on Aug 12, 2010.

“ Great ”

— on Aug 11, 2010.

“ Best one so far. Especially the weekly accomplishments and the components where individuals raise questions about their special challenges. ”

— on Aug 7, 2010.

“ A good group with good people all there for the same reason. I was able to gain quite a bit from the other people who are there the same reason I am. ”

— on Jul 30, 2010.

“ People can shorten the time they are seeking work by improving their resume, improving interview skills, and networking. Regular attendance will have you ready when your opportunity comes. Many successful candidates have attended these sessions, including myself. ”

— on Jul 29, 2010.

“ I was impressed with the willingness of the career seekers who showed up to provide valuable networking help to each other. ”

— on Jul 27, 2010.

“ This meetup Group provides encouragement, helpful advise and knowledge that saves months in your search. The group is dedicated to "pay it forward" and helping each other. On a weekly basis, the relationships and support keep my spirits up. ”

— on Jul 23, 2010.

“ Anyone wishing to sharpen their job seeking skills would benefit from the information that is shared among the members. You will hear advice of what works and what doesn't from those who have been through this. It's a valuable tool. ”

— on Jul 16, 2010.

“ This is a very well organized and run group, providing emotional, actionable information and training support, for job/career seekers. ”

— on Jul 13, 2010.

“ Pertinent Subject Matter, Good Programs & Presenters, Encouragement, Networking Opportunites, Proactive Spirit ”

— on Jun 22, 2010.

“ I am very grateful for everyone associated with this group for their constant encouragement and the information they provide. ”

— on Jun 22, 2010.

“ Career Prospectors West End is a group of multi-talented individuals sharing the path to career management together. The wealth of information, support and advice is so valuable at this time for job seekers and those looking for the next great opportunity in their careers. I highly recommend it to everyone I know that wants to be powerful in their job search. ”

— on May 26, 2010.

“ The connections this group has are incredible! ”

— on May 26, 2010.

“ Caring and knowledgeable leaders, excellent program material. ”

— on May 25, 2010.

“ If you are considering a career change or are in transition to your next career opportunity, this is a great group to join. ”

— on May 11, 2010.

“ The theme of the meetup is "Pay it forward"... I would like to think that we can all help each other in everyday life. And we are all in the same boat: unemployment. ”

— on May 11, 2010.

“ To share in the wealth of information presented at these meetings whether through a speaker or amongst ourselves, someone always seems to know someone to be contacted for a personal connection to a potential job lead! ”

— on May 11, 2010.

“ The job search process can be quite overwhelming; the moral support and professional/informative guidance provided are authentic, helpful, and comprehensive. ”

— on Apr 12, 2010.

“ This Meetup Group has a strong spirit of support. Guest speakers add an excellent opportunity to learn more about what to expect in the course of your job search ”

— on Apr 6, 2010.

“ ditto ”

— on Mar 18, 2010.

“ This is a cross functional group of professionals. They not only know people, but they are able to initiate and educate new comers to the how, why and what of networking. ”

— on Mar 9, 2010.

“ Good support network for those looking for work. ”

— on Mar 9, 2010.

“ Because: networking = leads= interviews = jobs! ”

— on Mar 5, 2010.

“ They are going to leave feeling a whole lot better. ”

— on Feb 19, 2010.

“ 1) Excellent networking opportunity with others who are in the same situation 2) Excellent opportunity to meet business owners and staffing personnel who may also be in attendance 3) Brightens spirits...sitting home all day behind a laptop, job hunting can get depressing 4) Early morning meetings encourages one to get up, get dressed and start the day on a very positive note ”

— on Feb 9, 2010.

“ For Networking purposes. I told the group that I was looking for a Venture Capitalist to get my patented idea to market. ”

— on Feb 2, 2010.

“ Good way to get you to speak about who you are in a professional setting, and keep you energized about your job search. ”

— on Jan 26, 2010.

“ They should join because networking, as I have learned the hard way, is the way to best find a job in today's volatile market. Talking with other people who are in the same situation as you are really helps. It gets people to help other people when they need it. ”

— on Jan 14, 2010.

“ A positive and supportive group. Members share leads and provide introductions...a great group! ”

— on Jan 14, 2010.

“ The members are genuinely helpful and with such a diverse group of professionals, you get invaluable tips and information from all different perspectives. ”

— on Jan 7, 2010.

“ N/A ”

— on Jan 5, 2010.

“ It is a great way to network and get ideas on job searching. ”

— on Dec 15, 2009.

“ The Virginia Career Network is a great way to network and get helpful information for your job search. ”

— on Dec 10, 2009.

“ Networking, networking, networking Need to build relationships to find good opportunities in this job market. ”

— on Nov 20, 2009.

“ -Learn new and/or sharpen job search skills -Get help and help others with contacts -Networking opportunities ”

— on Nov 19, 2009.

“ Networking is always a good idea, especially is you haven’t participated in a while. There is a good mix of folks and the more the better. More folks, more opportunities. ”

— on Nov 11, 2009.

“ If looking for a position, absolutely. ”

— on Nov 10, 2009.

“ All of the members were will to help each other and offer advice. ”

— on Nov 5, 2009.

“ Upbeat and positive experience. ”

— on Nov 3, 2009.

“ It is very inspiring and helpful in keeping my spirits up and making me realize what I have to offer. ”

— on Nov 3, 2009.

“ To help expand their networking and provide helpful information to others that are seeking employment. ”

— on Nov 2, 2009.

“ Good for making connections with other jobseekers. ”

— on Oct 20, 2009.

“ This is a great networking group! ”

— on Oct 19, 2009.

“ Increase their network, help others, and learn from programming. ”

— on Oct 13, 2009.

“ The career advice provided at these meetings is very useful and provides people an opportunity to network. ”

— on Sep 29, 2009.

“ I believe that have support with others in a similar situation give one perspective in the job search. It allows everyone to bounce questions and ideas off one another. ”

— on Sep 20, 2009.

“ Networking and learning about other companies, situations, and opportunities. ”

— on Sep 18, 2009.

“ If you are interested in starting business of your own, this meeting up group provides direct access to people who have been through it. ”

— on Sep 16, 2009.

“ Very helpful and friendly ”

— on Sep 15, 2009.

“ It's a good support group, with good topics ”

— on Sep 8, 2009.

“ Extremely Friendly and supportive group ”

— on Aug 31, 2009.

“ As a means of gathering information and networking opportunities to be better equipped for the job search..there are so many more dynamics to be considered in today's economy of how to streamline your job search efforts. ”

— on Aug 27, 2009.

“ This was an excellent forum to exchange information with other people who might know the exact person I need to talk to for my next job! ”

— on Aug 25, 2009.

“ I think others should attend this meetup group because when people shared their experiences it opened up new netwroking and contact-stragetgies, that I had not thought of. I learned of innovative ways to get to the decision-maker, while conducting a job/career search that I am sure will be very useful to me and others. ”

— on Aug 24, 2009.

“ Networking opportunity for those in transition to share contact information as well as inform others of target areas/firms desired; a chance to practice your elevator speech, refine your presentation of yourself and do so in a very pleasant, non-threatening venue. Future meetings are anticipated to include local small business owners who can add their perspective for people in career transition. ”

— on Aug 24, 2009.

“ You WILL learn something beneficial. ”

— on Aug 21, 2009.

“ More laid back then most networking groups, you are able to be yourself. ”

— on Aug 20, 2009.

“ VCN is a great group, but this venue was the worst ever. ”

— on Aug 17, 2009.

“ 1) Networking 2) Referrals ”

— on Aug 17, 2009.

“ There is much support in this group. The networking is wonderful and the group members are so willing to help. You feel less isolated and alone going through this process. ”

— on Aug 17, 2009.

“ If you want to help yourself by helping others, by all means join! This is the only way you will be "in the know" about career opportunities that are available in the marketplace. Great opportunity to practice what is preached - employing the buddy system is a super concept and when implented will work very well. We thank the organizers for the opportrtunity to participate. Ed Kluckowski ”

— on Aug 14, 2009.

“ The group can be helpful in many way, meeting new people, sharing job infomation and understanding that you are not the only one in the new job market. Thanks ”

— on Aug 13, 2009.

“ yes ”

— on Aug 12, 2009.

“ Great information in this changing job market. ”

— on Aug 10, 2009.

“ - Helps keep you focused on your job search - Speakers provide relevant, very helpful information to support our job search - Networking option before and/or after meeting w/ up to 40 persons per session - Possibility of leads on companies and/or contacts ”

— on Aug 7, 2009.

“ Anybody that's looking for a job and needing direction ~ should join this group! They care and want to help! ”

— on Aug 6, 2009.

“ Job search is not an individual endeavor. It takes letting everyone you know and don't know that you are looking for that next career. This group is a great give and take environment. ”

— on Aug 5, 2009.

“ The folks that organized this "LaidOff Camp" are talented, positive thinking go-getters and the type of people around whom you want to mingle and work. Overall, this is a very energizing and likeable group to join. ”

— on Aug 5, 2009.

“ To build their professional networking group and gain great information!! ”

— on Jul 28, 2009.

“ People who want to come across as engaging and be easily understood should join. This is especially true for those who are overly technical to learn to network with others who can really help them. Others who are not at all technical are in a great position to help even the technical folks because of who they live next door too, see around the club, associate with on weekends, and so on. VCN creates an opportunity for open communication and dialogue and the mastery of this as a tool for finding your next job. ”

— on Jul 18, 2009.

“ Great way to meet professional people in the Richmond area. ”

— on Jul 17, 2009.

“ Etremely helpful and informative. Each meeting is filled with focussed, tactical information to help move us through our transitions as best as possible. ”

— on Jul 7, 2009.

“ Group has a committed leadership which seeks to assist those who are in career transition. ”

— on Jul 6, 2009.

“ I know others should join this group to expand their network and to hear about additional improvements/approaches to the career search endeavors. ”

— on Jun 23, 2009.

“ It was my observation that this was a very diverse group of professionals. It appeared to me that during the elevator session someone from the group raised their hands for contact requests. ”

— on Jun 23, 2009.

“ Because it's better than sitting at home searching job boards.... ”

— on Jun 4, 2009.

“ for networking purposes ”

— on May 28, 2009.

“ You never know who you might meet. ”

— on May 28, 2009.

“ Focus is on personal need rather than general need. ”

— on May 28, 2009.

“ This particular meeting was beneficial with Jim Roman speaking to us about how to more effectively and more effortlessly network. This was critical as networking has proven to be the way to get hired in this economic climate. We should have Jim speak at other VCN meetings. ”

— on May 26, 2009.

“ Check and balance. It gave me the right idea that I am in the right track as far as how to search about companies. ”

— on May 26, 2009.

“ The Meetup Group is a fantastic way to meet others that have insight into other companies, industries and experience different from your own. The members provide useful connections and are open to help widen your reach. ”

— on May 26, 2009.

“ network ”

— on May 19, 2009.

“ To meet others who share your experiences and interests in getting a job, and to open up new non-traditional job seeking opportunities ”

— on May 19, 2009.

“ Good ideas on elevator speech, networking, etc., shared by leadership and group members. This group does a good job of sharing leads. ”

— on May 18, 2009.

“ This is a good path to learn the intricacy's of find employment. ”

— on May 14, 2009.

“ Up until today I wondered if I was going to be able to get another job. Today I saw that it's more than possible. I may get a decent job by using benefits the Transition Center has in place for people like me. ”

— on May 14, 2009.

“ Good networking opportunities. ”

— on May 7, 2009.

“ It is a great opportunity to meet new people and network. ”

— on May 7, 2009.

“ Good environment nice to meet people who are positive given their circumstances. ”

— on May 5, 2009.

“ group support & job leads ”

— on May 5, 2009.

“ See above comments. ”

— on May 5, 2009.

“ You get a lot of great job search ideas, success stories and hints. Also, you can make a lot of contacts. ”

— on Apr 28, 2009.

“ Great place to network ”

— on Apr 21, 2009.

“ This is a fantastic way to keep yourself social, practice networking skills as well as simple meet and greet skills. There are all kinds of ideas shared as well as contact information. ”

— on Apr 21, 2009.

“ To share information and network with others who may be able to help you in your job search. ”

— on Apr 15, 2009.

“ share ideas, practice marketing yourself, seek feedback, meet new friends ”

— on Apr 14, 2009.

“ It was a great informal way to network with professional from all facets of business that have the same common denominator. ”

— on Apr 14, 2009.

“ This is a highly professional group. Most attendees come with the intention of helping others with contacts. Great diversity amoung the group with a number of disciplines represented. ”

— on Apr 14, 2009.

“ Good practice exercise this morning in working on talking about yourself. ”

— on Apr 14, 2009.

“ It provides the interaction which keeps you focused on the goal of finding meaningful employment. ”

— on Apr 7, 2009.

“ This is an excellent way to meet other professional people who are motivated to find new employment and utilize their experience and contacts to help other similarly motivated professionals do the same. I've benefitted by seeing informative, motivating speakers and learning new ways to build a job search network through the forum and through social networking groups on the internet. If you are a serious professional looking for work I highly recommend this group. ”

— on Apr 6, 2009.

“ There was a lot of good information that was provided for job seekers. ”

— on Apr 4, 2009.

“ A+ - great advice and contacts, very energizing and supportive. ”

— on Apr 1, 2009.

“ Members were welcoming, funny and very supportive of one another. ”

— on Mar 31, 2009.

“ It's good to know there are others in the same boat as you. If just beginning a job search or in a field where you don't really talk about yourself, it's beneficial to learn about elevator speeches, focus your search efforts and learn what networking is all about. ”

— on Mar 24, 2009.

“ Most new jobs are found via networking. Especially in this economy, any advantage gained via networking could be crucial. ”

— on Mar 24, 2009.

“ I always leave VCN events feeling energized and eager to continue the search. Everyone is very supportive as we are all striving for similar goals. Great best practice sharing and time incredibly well spent. Leadership and facilitation is great! ”

— on Mar 22, 2009.

“ It is a friendly, helpful group of people who are willing to share information and assist fellow job seekers with contacts and job seeking strategies. I was impressed and felt very encouraged by the group's willingness to be supportive of its members. ”

— on Mar 19, 2009.

“ This group has a lot of participating members from a range of backgrounds. Some good discussions are initiated and ideas and contacts are generated. ”

— on Mar 19, 2009.

“ Good mix of professionals with an interest in helping others as well as themselves. ”

— on Mar 18, 2009.

“ Give aid in finding a job. ”

— on Mar 17, 2009.

“ Great way to meet new people and learn from others. ”

— on Mar 17, 2009.

“ See comments. ”

— on Mar 17, 2009.

“ You will get good info and you never know when you may get a valuable contact. ”

— on Mar 10, 2009.

“ The most professional and cordial group for networking. People are willing to help and provide information as much as they are seeking it. I got 2 contacts I was looking for at FRB. Information on LinkedIn is also very helpful. ”

— on Mar 10, 2009.

“ The diversity of professionals and experiences ”

— on Mar 9, 2009.

“ This is a great source of information for all aspects of the job hunt. ”

— on Mar 7, 2009.

“ Smaller group format with effective discussion. ”

— on Mar 5, 2009.

“ I think that networking is key to finding a job in this market, and this meetup group is very well organized. It gives you great exposure to people from lots of other companies. ”

— on Mar 4, 2009.

“ If you're "looking for your next opportunity", this would be a great place to network, to make new connections, to form alliances, and to strategize your next move. A great blend of skill-sets, with open minds, and a willingness to share ideas. ”

— on Mar 4, 2009.

“ To network, exchange creative ideas. ”

— on Mar 4, 2009.

“ Don't be trying to figure out this career search on your own. There is comfort in meeting and sharing with many other highly qualified people who are in the same boat. It is amazing how many folks want to help each other! So put on your smile, bring your A-Game Attitude and let's network! ”

— on Mar 4, 2009.

“ This meetup group provides opportunities to meet and network with other professionals affected by layoffs in the Richmond/Tri-Cities area. Networking is critical to get back into the workforce as well as to maintain relationships with other business leaders. ”

— on Mar 4, 2009.

“ Because it keeps you in contact with others who are job seekers and lets you know that you are not alone. ”

— on Feb 27, 2009.

“ It is a great way to network with others and learn of job opportunities. It also gives you an opportunity to help others in their search. ”

— on Feb 25, 2009.

“ Great time of fellowship, sharing tips and contacts and simply being with wonderfully talented professionals. ”

— on Feb 25, 2009.

“ This group has a lot to offer recently released workers as well as those who have been searching for employment a longer period of time. The networking advantage is hugely important, now more than ever. These smart business professionals are genuinely interested in helping each other become successful. ”

— on Feb 25, 2009.

“ Good networking opp. Each time they meet others will / should participate for a more diverse popuation. ”

— on Feb 24, 2009.

“ Good to see other capable people from varying backgrounds going through the same thing and willing to help a stranger out. ”

— on Feb 24, 2009.

“ For many of us, this our first job search process and it helps to interact with others going through the same process. Also, a great venue to gain some valuable resources and information. ”

— on Feb 24, 2009.

“ Networking opportunities, public speaking/personal improvement, and the tips provided. ”

— on Feb 24, 2009.

“ This was my first Meetup event. The organizers were friendly and the presenters were well-prepared and helpful. Nice event! ”

— on Feb 24, 2009.

“ Awesome venue, content, presenter. Very relevant, carefully planned and effective. ”

— on Feb 19, 2009.

“ The size of the group and the attitudes of the members promote the exchange of good information. ”

— on Feb 18, 2009.

“ Useful information for job hunters, networking, information exchanged among job seekers. The more people, the more likely someone can point you in the right direction to your next career. ”

— on Feb 17, 2009.

“ The meetings allow each person to provide specific feedback or to provide helpful information to others in the group. Great way to start the day ”

— on Feb 16, 2009.

“ Why not? ”

— on Feb 11, 2009.

“ See above ”

— on Feb 11, 2009.

“ If you are out of a job, you need help. No one's full time job is looking for a job for themselves. The only way to get good at it is participate. You get useful information from the speakers and great contact information. ”

— on Feb 10, 2009.

“ Lot 's of contacts were offered. People willing to help others... ”

— on Feb 10, 2009.

“ Great opportunity to network and help others ”

— on Feb 10, 2009.

“ This is a great way to actively network. Lots of great tips and helpful contacts. ”

— on Feb 10, 2009.

“ The group was friendly and the meeting informative. The members seemed to be genuinely interested in networking with, and helping, one another. ”

— on Feb 6, 2009.

“ The more Networking you do the Better!!! ”

— on Feb 5, 2009.

“ Good way to connect with others, share what you're looking for, and see how you can mutally help one another with your searches. Plus, gives you a chance to practice your "elevator pitch," which is key. ”

— on Feb 4, 2009.

“ The more people join there, the greater will be the strength and reach of the network for its members. ”

— on Feb 4, 2009.

“ Join this Meetup Group if you are a career-seeker looking to network with the local professional community, assist others in their search, and brush up on how to better market yourself. Brian Brown Supply chain / Process Improvement / Proj Mgmt [masked] [masked] ”

— on Jan 28, 2009.

“ Good information about the Charlottesville area. More time per person to get/give ideas for search. ”

— on Jan 23, 2009.

“ This group is excellent and I highly recommend it. In today's world of email and internet, the personal aspect of networking gets lost. I find it much easier to communicate and network with people, once you have met them. This is the perfect place to do that. ”

— on Jan 21, 2009.

“ Social Networking for career transition purposes to learn about specific job opportunities and exchange ideas as to what techniques are helpful what should be avoided. ”

— on Jan 21, 2009.

“ The group provides a terrific networking opportunity with others in the job hunt, as well as with recruiters and specialists in career transition. Environment facilitated easy networking. ”

— on Jan 21, 2009.

“ Good place to network. Very diverse group of people. Well Organized. Career and job placement assistance. Different speakers every week. ”

— on Jan 21, 2009.

“ Attendance in these sessions is effective for networking and identifying strategies for gaining new employment. Attendance is also somewhat therapeutic - i.e., there are other experienced professionals facing similar unemployment challenges. Most importantly, it drives us to take control of our career - both strategically and tactically. ”

— on Jan 16, 2009.

“ This is a great networking opportunity for those of us currently searching for a new job opportunity. ”

— on Jan 14, 2009.

“ The folks attending are not just interested in finding a position for themselves but in helping others as well. There was just the right blend of formality and informality. ”

— on Jan 7, 2009.