Need a Job? Turn Social Networks Into Job Networks

We know that an increasing number of companies are vetting potential employees by examining their social-network profiles -- meaning if you're not careful, Facebook could cost you a job. But could it go the other way? Could social networking actually help you land work?

Yes indeedy. PC World has a story on downsized workers who leveraged social networks to find new jobs. It's not just a batch of tips and tricks, though those are there, too -- the story cites some real-world examples of people who managed to turn Facebook into bucks and LinkedIn into, um, links into employment.

It's a lengthy article, but definitely a worthwhile read from top to bottom (and you've got nothing better to do, right?). Same goes for our recent Guy Vs. Guy debate on the merits of social networking. (As usual, Dave gets it completely and utterly wrong.) While you're at it, check out Dave's post on VOIS, a "social networking site for business commerce."
What do you think? Can a savvy job-searcher improve his or her chances by tapping social networks? Or are these just flash-in-the-pan methods that won't work for most workers? Share your thoughts and experiences in the Talkback.