I have more than ten years’ experience working as a developer for information systems firms. Though I am good at my job and have been successful, in all my three jobs, I was helped in the door by a friend or a contact. Of course, I went through the interview process like anyone else but my path was certainly eased each time.

My current employer is scaling back its operations and I am looking elsewhere in anticipation of this. Though I have plenty of work experience, I am not so used to approaching companies off my own bat, especially as few of my former contacts are still in the city. What advice do you give?