Community LinksIn faster to pursue futures
December 9, 2010
We've been leading a LinkedIn group for the HP 3000 Community for two years now, but the last 30 days have seen a 15 percent increase in membership. It's not always easy to figure why Web interest rises and falls, but one theory is that 3000 community members are creating a new set of alliances -- the Transition away from an HP-centric world.
HP's been spinning off talent for years by now, with regular layoffs and exits of some of its more senior tech experts. They're a good example of one slice of community member -- technical resources still in a community, looking for engagements, the next job in their career saga, or just a way to help answer questions.
While the numbers might seem modest, 240 LinkedIn members have joined the HP 3000 Community since we kicked it off in 2008. LinkedIn is free at a very useful Basic level. Recruiters look for experts, while members keep in touch with opportunities and comment about community news. There's a regular feed of articles to spark discussions. And it revolves around more than just homesteading 3000s.
One new member, Michael Tilford, worked in HP's support division up until this year. His last day with HP is Dec. 31, when he'll be available to anybody who needs more than three decades of 3000 experience.
LinkedIn is a good place to make networking contacts, to find people to hire or make contact with potential employers. "That is partially why I signed up for LinkedIn," Tilford said, "to network and job search. I had not looked for a position in many years, was comfortable in my job role at HP, and reduced my networking as well.
He added, "I'm glad the 3000 still has some life out there. From a proactive services standpoint in HP, I did not have any remaining customers in the MD/DC/VA area," when his work ended at HP.