I recently found out about a job group near me. I have done attempted networking in the past, but there were a couple incidents where it went so badly that I melted down. I'm really not sure what to expect. Has anyone ever been to one of these?

Don't feel bad.  I stink at networking.  

DH has informed me that NTs tend to create professional cliques under the guise of "networking."  Apparently, it is based on a pack mentality.  Running in a group will help  you to go a lot farther and protect you from predators better than running alone.  So, you throw business each others' way, and everyone survives.  It involves a lot of social stuff, like people being comfortable with you, and you have to build rapport by hanging out with these people occasionally, but not as often as you would a good friend, so if you can occasionally put on the "social skills" mask you may be able to get by this way.  An occasional lunch is sufficient, so the social aspect isn't too involved.  

Even if you're not great at that, it can't hurt to try.  Having a group of people in your corner would be a good thing.  Are there mentors or a director that will help members with things like interview skills, etc.?

Maybe a fraternity might be seen as a type of job seeker group, too? If so, then yes; if not, no.
I'd say it helps you about 5% - that's not too much, but it might give you an edge.

Eta: post no. 1588 - the year of the Spanish Armada (totally offtopic - sorry )

This post was last modified: 08-25-2012 09:44 PM by Shnoing.

I think it is a good idea.

In a tight job market you need all the tips and support you can get.

I got my current job through a colleague of a friend who I've worked with a couple of times. So networking can really help, even when you suck at it (like I do).

This post was last modified: 08-25-2012 09:57 PM by 142857.

Thanks for the comments. I was going today, but apparently they took this week off (d'oh!...okay so I admit I am a bit relieved).

How did you hear about this job seeker group?

Job Seeker groups are a nice adjunct to your employment arsenal.
Take lots of cards...not necessary business cards per say but cards with your name, FB...

Meet ppl out of your comfy zone.  
You may be pleasantly surprised.

It's good to note person's full name, email, companies policy on hiring inside first or outside first, companies training policy......
Keep the small talk to work, casual sports(Playoffs....).....

Best of luck!

Maybe this could help me find a job.
I would like to work at Hot Topic.
Selling clothes and stuff.
Maybe Hot Topic will hire me if I go to one of these.