Contacts / Networking

[reddog]

Hello - I have been contracting for a couple of years and things are going well. However I am still reliant on getting work from Jobserve etc. I'd like to go up a gear and am keen to get more direct work.

Anyone got any suggestion on how to build contacts which may lead to work. I have used linkedin etc and try to keep in contact with former colleagues.

I have had a few thoughts about joining BCS and technical user group, anyone got any thoughts as to whether this will yield results?

I know this is something that will take time and effort, but ideal I would only want to spend 4-8 hours a month 'networking'. As usual what I am looking for is suggestions that involve minimum effort and maximum results!

[BolshieBastard]

Hello - I have been contracting for a couple of years and things are going well. However I am still reliant on getting work from Jobserve etc. I'd like to go up a gear and am keen to get more direct work.

Yes, get on the phone and call, call, call. There really is no magic formula other than call, call and call some more.

[reddog]

Thanks - I think my originally post may have been slightly misinterpreted. I am at current clientco for at least another 6 months - with more work on the horizon, so don't really want to start cold calling people yet. But equally I don't want to get too comfortable and forget about marketing myself while in a nice contract.

What I really want to do is cultivate contacts/acquaintances that I would be able to 'warm' call when looking for work.