My new 'friends' in the recession

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Which is perhaps why networking queen Carole Stone's fortnightly salon, The Stone Club, went ahead on Monday night at One Alfred Place despite the awful weather. "In times of recession we need to share our work problems and possibilities more than ever," says Stone. "The essence of 'good' networking is taking an interest in other people and making the most of the people you meet to your mutual advance."

To set an example, she had no compunction about introducing her stepson and announcing he was looking for a new job. What chutzpah. Is it a case of the deeper the recession the more overt the networking? Is there nothing left to lose? I wasn't looking for a new job, and even if I were, I wouldn't announce it at the top of my voice.

Perhaps I should mend my ways. Other guests were keen to exchange business cards like they were some form of thrillingly illicit currency. I forgot to take mine. I obviously have a lot to learn. The evening fizzed with energy, ideas and optimism and I left with a spring in my step. Which was just as well, given the amount of sludge down Tottenham Court Road.