I have never networked. This is in the traditional BE sense of using or gaining contacts to further your career, find a job, etc. You can make the phrase all cuddly by defining all social interaction as networking. However, if that was really the case people wouldn't say it was more important to network here than in the UK now would they.

But the a*** licking is important with regards to finding a job.

In my husband's employment, there is definitely an element of more than just being friendly, sociable or going camping with the right people. There is seniority which is hugely important, and knowing the right people. Whether you suck up to them, or happen to play hockey with them is not relevant.

My husband recently got a hard-fought-for place on a new department (Lord knows how, because he didn't "network" Talent wins out?! ) but as soon as his confirmation was announced he had people coming out the woodwork, emailing him, shaking his hand in the corridors saying "well done buddy". Some of these people have previously blanked him, ignored him or who he has never met. But now that he has the new post, he might be useful to them in the future and might put in a good word for when they apply next year.

Don't tell me that is a sudden urge to be sociable and friendly to him. That is blatent a*** licking and he's sadly cynical enough to see that. He has always refused to play this game, and finds it quite distasteful. He just slowly wears them all down with his good nature, talent and skills. But it takes longer than the a*** licking route

Hmmm . . . . .

Network -
1. To interact or engage in informal communication with others for mutual assistance or support.
2. forming business connections and contacts through informal social meetings
3. to meet people
4. to exchange ideas
5. to make contacts
6. to interact

I draw your attention to number 6! Are we interacting? or you wanting a cuddle?

Nope. Do you?

Sex in the city - whats that?

How about we get this thread back on track and stop the squabbling?

Thank you.

So does anyone have any experience?
Has anyone just packed their suitcase and arrived and simply cold called
What are the likely hood of an employer being interested in a UK national showing commitment by turning up on their door step?

Agreed. Fair point & well made!

Dinger24

I think that this is a very valid point and shows that everyone who has or plans to emigrated has indulged in a certain amount of networking. If you cold call anyone they normally knock you back before even giving you a chance. Even if you are headhunted you are involved in the process.

Yelkcub

Whatever...

Sorry. Now that people have proved the point in my second post in this thread I'll leave it alone.

I am actually in the process of booking a flight to Calgary right now (mrs is doing it on othermeans!)
This is so she can she the country herself and I had every intention of calling a couple potential employers! So Iam very wary that cold calling is the right thing to do?

I can remember being a recent ad/pr grad from the University of Central Florida and cold calling adverting agencies in the Calgary area 10 years ago. I actually got to meet up with folks at two outfits during the summer of 1999.

I cold called them from Orlando and told them I would be in the area for more than two weeks. Cold calling is doable.

Its good to hear some positive feedback

Where in Canada? If your interested in Vancouver have a look at http://www.able-recruiters.com/ - they say the can help but you have to be there.

I'm targeting BC (Vancouver) because I work for a hotel and BC have a program in place to expedite the LMO for certain jobs - are your familiar with it?? http://www.aved.gov.bc.ca/provincialnominee/welcome.htm

Hope this was helpful.

Toots

PS - they say you don't have to have a work permit!! Oh my!!