Top 8 Job Search Networking Groups in Minneapolis

Time-honored and trusted, networking remains the most powerful job-finding strategy. Finding a new job, getting your foot in the door, or being in the know about un-publicized positions – there is no tool more useful than a strong professional network. Below you will find local resources for job-search networking.

1). The Manufacturers Alliance

This peer-to-peer education platform has a lot to offer. Membership grants you access to an extensive video library, as well as puts in touch with relevant groups to assist you in boosting your professional network. Post your resume to this highly –visible stage and search positions posted by local firms looking to add to their staff.

2). The White Box Club™

Specifically geared toward the recently unemployed, The White Box Club was created to provide free live coaching sessions, encouragement, resources, and networking opportunities to anyone laid off, unemployed, or in career transition. This bustling group has over 1400 active members and offers everything from resume refreshers to in-depth, topic-focused online events. The White Box Club is free to join.

3). EIM

Executives in Motion [EIM] helps senior management professionals and executives facing a career transition. EIM provides networking and information on strategies and tactics to make transitioning roles smoother, faster, and more productive. EIM caters to individuals at the director, VP or “C” level, or who have senior managerial or professional, engineering, IT, or scientific backgrounds that are substantial. EIM holds 8-10 meetings per year, also offering an online-only level of membership.

4). PMI

The Project Management Institute of Minnesota’s Career Networking Group meets for one hour, prior to the monthly PMI chapter dinner. The meetings are open to PMI members and non-member project professionals at no cost. PMI posts free, downloadable presentations of the topics covered at the monthly chapter meetings. The Project Management Institute is a go-to source for local hiring managers and recruiters, making their member’s highly-visible candidates for open positions.

5). Twin Cities Collective

This well-executed site offers a myriad of thoughtful resources aimed at networking and career advancement. One of the largest networking communities in the Twin Cities, TCC provides resources and marketing education for “local creatives and entrepreneurs.” They host an extensive events calendar and add regular updates to their standby properties like Tips Under Ten – a collection of concise, how-to-style videos to help you bolster your networking skills.

6). Global Connections

Global Connections is a network of industry experts from across the Twin Cities that meets every Friday morning (currently on Zoom) to build their network and pass referrals. At a typical in-person meeting, visitors are given a chance to introduce themselves to all in attendance and can expect to make a number of new, Twin Cities-based industry connections. Global Connections recommends visitors bring plenty of business cards.

7). Wooddale Job Transition Support Group

“Our purpose is to help you secure a new position in the shortest time possible.” WJTSG brings a sense of community to its focused game plan, helping you find your next role. Program volunteers work directly with participants, creating a plan tailored to a specific job seeker. The group meets at Wooddale Church in Eden Prairie every Monday at 7:15 a.m. Of course, meetings have been moved online for the time being.

8). Minnesota Professionals (MnP)

Currently only hosting virtual meetups, MnP is known for its social hour and cocktail-friendly events that bring together professionals from all industries in a relaxed atmosphere. “Networking is vital to the success of any business; it’s our goal to provide our members with a variety of venues for socializing, education, support & advice.” Check their Meetups page to stay up-to-date on their list of events.