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[Rhnitrene6]

I am currently working towards a PhD in organic chemistry and am studying to take the patent bar before I graduate, hopefully this summer to then graduate in the fall.  I am in Atlanta GA right now, but my fiance will be starting grad school in Chicago in September, so I will be moving to the area after graduation.  I am hoping to get into the field through a technical specialist type of postion, but I know that the majority of these postions come through networking with established professionals.  I am trying to contact as many people as I can in the area (via e-mail to then set-up phone conversations) that I have anything in common with (undergrad/graduate school and even just PhD's in organic chemistry) but I am getting a lot of people who just do not respond.  Is it safe to say that a non-response is as good as a no thanks?  Also, does anyone have any advice or good techniques for networking long distance?

Thanks in advance!

[Sixes]

One simple step to take is to have a Linkedin account, and to form connections to everyone you know that is on it as well.  Then you can see who your friends may know in the Chicago area that they could introduce you to.  I only have two 1st degree contacts that live in Chicago, but I have 282 2nd degree contacts there, so my friends are friends with that many people in Chicago.  Just a suggestion.  Good luck with your hunt and the joys of networking.

Also, if you'd like, we have a Linkedin group for people transitioning into IP law and studying for the patent bar.  You might find some helpful resources there if you are interested.  The link is in my signature. 

[Rhnitrene6]

Great, I already have a Linkedin account, I just need to really try to take advantage of it.  Sometimes I am nervous that people do not really take Linkedin connections seriously, kind of like how a Facebook 'friend' is not really your friend.  I am sure it is worth the effort though, and I assume that it certainly can't hurt.

I actually already am a member of the Linkedin group that you run.  You are right, there is definitely a lot of great information on there...so thanks for that and your advice!