Pink Slip parties are networking events where people who have received a "pink slip," meaning they’ve lost their jobs, come together to network with recruiters, HR professionals and other hiring managers of area organizations. Pink Slip parties initially began as a result of the "dot com" bust but are now resurfacing and becoming popular once again.
Networking is a key component of the Pink Slip Party. It’s a way for individuals to find out what’s happening career-wise at area organizations, learn about jobs not yet posted on job boards and also meet recruiters and hiring managers. Pink Slip parties may be held in restaurants, bars or any similar location. The atmosphere is usually friendly, more of an after-work cocktail party than a job fair event. Cocktails and hors d'oeuvres may be served and there may be a small fee to attend the party.
Pink Slip Party Hosts
Pink Slip parties may be hosted by area recruiters, job search professionals, or even local not-for-profit agencies. Besides being able to talk with recruiters, individuals may be able to meet with performance coaches, discuss their resume with an expert or learn job interview tips. Some Pink Slip parties benefit charitable foundations. For example, the First Wall Street Pink Slip Party held in November, 2008 supported the Ronald McDonald House of New York.
Networking and Socializing
Besides networking opportunities and the chance to meet with recruiters, Pink Slip parties also give participants the opportunity to socialize with people who have been through a similar job-loss experience. There is generally an air of camaraderie between participants who can discuss the effects of lay-offs or firings in uncertain economic times.
Individuals who are attending a Pink Slip party in the future for the first time should keep the following tips in mind:
- Take a handful of resumes to the Pink Slip party to hand out to recruiters. These should be the most current version available.
- Have business cards made up with specific contact information provided. Business cards can be made up for a nominal fee online, at print shops or at home with a Microsoft Word template and cardstock.
- Dress professionally. The dress code is generally business casual at Pink Slip parties. Avoid wearing jeans and tee shirts.
- Drinks may be available for purchase at Pink Slip parties; therefore, attendees may want to bring extra cash.
Check out local job boards for information about upcoming Pink Slip parties or simply do a Google search with keywords Pink Slip Party as well as the location of choice. If any upcoming Pink Slip parties are being planned, they will usually show up in this type of search.
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