Attention Job Seekers and Job Angels

Recently, while reviewing our plans for the week, we stumbled upon a tweetup that, at first glance, sounded interesting.  Then, we read a little deeper. “A note for job seekers,” it started.  What followed was not a blanket “don’t come” but it certainly made it clear that the usual attendees viewed “this event as an opportunity to network with other employed professionals.”  Too bad.

Meanwhile, a Twtpoll we put up after the first Mass Innovation made it clear that our event was seen as a terrific opportunity to network with everyone in the Innovation Community.  We actively encourage job seekers to come to our event.  The more, the merrier.  (Hey, students, you too!)

Since Mass Innovation Nights was conceived and created while Bobbie was unemployed (Dan runs his own business), we like to think we have a special understanding of the things those “currently seeking new opportunities” bring to the table.  (For example, without a little “downtime” in our lives there would be no Mass Innovation Nights.)

Just because you don’t work for someone else’s company currently doesn’t mean you are sitting around eating bonbons or, conversely, running around harassing everyone you meet for a job.

Today’s job seeker is tomorrow’s gainfully employed person and they might be a perfect customer or partner.  Today’s job seekers are using the time they now have available to better their skills, increase their knowledge, expand their horizons and, perhaps, even helping others.

Speaking of helping others, on Twitter, you’ll find @jobangels — a movement dedicated to getting everyone to help just one person get a new job.  Isn’t this a better approach?

The idea behind Mass Innovation Nights is to work together to identify innovative Massachusetts products, high tech, low tech, or otherwise (and yes, people could be considered a Massachusetts product), and use social media to help spread the word.   Mass Innovation Nights is purposely eclectic so it can serve as an inspiration to innovators.  (Where else are you going to find a Renaissance Fair sharing a roof with the latest in Web-based applications, and Popsicles?) You don’t have to be employed to help with spreading the word.

So, come on down, job seekers — we’re happy to put you to work as a MIN “employee”.  There are 10 companies every month who would be glad of your help spreading the word about their great new products.  And, who knows, maybe you’ll make a connection with a potential employer at our event, or someone who knows of your perfect job.

Job Angels, we’re hoping to see you too.  We have little happy face stickers for hiring companies to put on their name tags.  We’ll give you one and our thanks too!