Detroitnet.org Schedules More Frequent Networking Events
Founded in 2001 as "The Anti-Group for Information Technology Professionals" and re-purposed in 2009 to not only provide networking opportunities but help people in the IT industry find jobs, the organization known as Detroitnet.org enters its second decade of existence by announcing a series of networking events throughout the metro Detroit area.
Pink Slip Party events will now be held every two months rather than quarterly, with new locations in new cities being targeted to increase the group's ability to help people, and additional events scheduled designed to bring a little fun into the equation.
At Pink Slip Party events, job seekers will have the ability to network with dozens of the top IT recruiters and headhunters in the Metro Detroit area, who will be wearing badges and easily identifiable.
Recruiters and hiring managers will have the ability to talk with candidates running the gamut of the IT field -- developers, architects, project and program managers, analysts, help desk personnel and more.
On the alternating months, casual networking events take place, designed to foster the same relationships and network building possibilities, but in a more relaxed manner than the Pink Slip Parties.
Alternative events are also being scheduled, focused on helping the group have some fun while reaching its goals of helping people find jobs, hire people, and strengthen their network.
"What started as a networking group designed to find like-minded people in the IT industry has truly evolved now into an organization that helps make things happen in the metro Detroit area," said Detroitnet.org founder Bob Waltenspiel. "To have people walk up to me at past networking events thanking us because it had really impacted their lives by helping them find a new job, or getting free training… well, that's seriously mind-blowing and gratifying. Knowing that we've done it without charging anyone a dime to attend our events, or taking any kickbacks or sponsorships… that's just self-satisfying to know – and show - that it can be done. You can help people without selling out or putting your hand in their pocket."
Added co-founder Dave Phillips: "As we always have, we've been listening to the people that participate in our group, and as a result we're moving our events around the metro Detroit area. Royal Oak and Novi are still in the mix, but with events coming to Utica, Ann Arbor, downtown Detroit and more, we really think it's going to add more opportunities to help people around the area. You can either be one of 5,000 resumes showing up in a random inbox responding to a job posting, or you can be the face that someone thinks of when they're looking to fill a job that might not even be posted yet. That's what Detroitnet.org is for – giving you the opportunity to be a face, not a file."
And Jeff Mackey, who carries the whimsical title "resident voice of reason" with the organization, added: "There are a number of events and groups in the area billing themselves as 'Pink Slip Parties' or 'networking for professionals'… but make no mistake – if you're in the IT industry, there is no better event for you to attend than a Detroitnet.org event. Whether you're a recruiter or a job seeker, what you're looking for is wearing a nametag at one of our events. We're looking forward to hitting at least hire No. 200 from our events this year…why shouldn't that be your new job or your new hire?"
Currently scheduled upcoming events include:
* Thursday, February 17: A Pink Slip Party event in Utica at Snookers Pool and Pub.
* Thursday, March 10: A casual networking event in the back room at the BlackFinn in Royal Oak.
* Wednesday, March 23: A casual networking event at the Hockeytown Café and then Joe Louis Arena for the Detroit Red Wings vs Vancouver Canucks hockey game. Discounted tickets to the game are available for Detroitnet.org members.
* Thursday, April 21: A Pink Slip Party event in Novi at the Post Bar.
Details on the group and all events are available at www.detroitnet.org.
