Well, there's an important distinction between "useful" and "in demand." The problem with knowledge work is that it's extremely fickle and cliquish -- literally anyone can claim they know Java, for instance. But when you get down to it, people are hired from a much smaller group.

The problem is, that group isn't necessarily a meritocracy. A good school and professional history definitely factor in. But, that first step -- the crucial "make or break" of whether you actually get an interview -- is almost always who you know, and who knows you.


That's part of why I'm so worried. My "who I know" bin is very small right now, and I don't want to use people, either. I got my last gig, literally, by posting on the CEO's blog.


Anyway, I hope things work out well for you, too. With luck, there'll be a place for all of us at the other end of the economy. :)