Hi Michael, some years ago through my local branch I found a new role having been made redundant in my previous role as the branch chair brought to my attention a vacancy that his organisation was going to recruit for. I applied and was successful. I have also advised other members at branch meetings if there was a vacancy coming up in the organisations I have subsequently worked for which may be of interest to them and some of the individuals have found roles.

How did it go on Saturday, Michael? Thanks for reaching out on LinkedIn re the spam comments we're suffering with a bit at the moment. We're on the case.

In reply to Catherine Fehilly:

Thanks, Catherine that's a really great example of the value of local branch engagement.

In reply to Steve Bridger:

The session went well thanks. And the feedback from the survey responses I got was interesting too!

People offered advice to those who might feel nervous to network:
* Speak to one of the speakers or committee members to start a conversation
* Take that leap of faith - what can possibly go wrong?
* Join in - We don't bite!
* Be available to share experiences with others or ask questions.
* Don’t stick to the person you came.
* Attend a Branch meeting – It is a pretty painless way of meeting fellow professionals
* Meet-up-Mondays are less formal and a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere (with drinks)
* If you don’t do it you will miss an important accelerator in your knowledge, career and personal development

They also shared examples of what they had sought or offered within their networks....

Help with research
Assignment help
Confidence & esteem building
Industry trends & insight
Career options
Find a new job
Progression
Bouncing ideas
Sharing knowledge
Making connections
Templates & Models
A sense of growth
Feeling part of something
Celebrating achievement
Professional standards
Planning CPD

Here's the link to the presentation I gave to the new students! www.slideshare.net/.../cipd-personal-learning-networks