Job Searching in Washington, DC

The rules of networking and social engagement for a Washington job search have changed with social media. Even Uncle Sam is not immune. Leveraging social media and social networking is now part and parcel of the job search process. While social media is not a complete replacement for going out to meet-'n-greet through job fairs and other networking activities, it often does produce results that are unexpected, even serendipitous.

Here are some social media and conventional networking opportunities. Start with LinkedIn, where you'll find several government-related networking groups.

• LinkedIn: US Government Connections, a networking group with nearly 14,000 members for current and former members of the government, including veterans, members of all branches of the Armed Services and civilian employees at the Department of Defense.
• The Federal Contractor Network or TFCN is a business community of government contractors. It also has a social networking meetup where people can come together at social events which are posted on the Meetup board. The TFCN website hosts free webinars, a job board and notices of upcoming and ongoing events.
• ClearanceJobs.com is associated with TFCN and is for government workers with a security clearance. The site also publishes job search tips and maintains a job board.
• Govloop is the premier online location where like-minded people in government can connect and share information. It has a Linkedin profile and its own website. The site publishes job postings and news of events on disparate topics such as “How to Nail your Next Job Interview” and “How to Build an Effective Online Video Strategy.”
• The American Society of Public Administration (ASPA) conducts conferences which offer educational programs, networking opportunities, and a Public Service Career Fair. ASPA has an online career center where you can search for jobs and post your resume. Also, as part of Washington job search and overall professional networking strategy, you can volunteer in various ASPA chapters or serve on one of their committees. This a great way to make contacts in the public administration arena.