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I agree that the networking is critical. Here's another idea: (I
document software so this has that slant... correct the seasoning to
your own taste)
Keep an eye out in your local paper for software engineer and/or
project leader ads. Often a team is being assembled for a specific
project. I've responded to these ads and have been 2 months ahead of
other documentation types. If they like you, they may never even
advertise for the documentation position.