We often hear that Networking Meetings are useless because they are full of people that are also looking for a job.
Just because people are in transition, does it mean they do not know people?
Look at it this way; you never know who people know!
Meeting new people and establishing rapport is good for you own mental state as well as expanding your network. When talking to another individual in transition it is up to you to manage the conversation. If the two of you sit around and compare notes on how tough it is, you are right; it is a waste of time.
On the other hand, if you spend the time to understand what the other person is looking for, and also explain your own direction, it can be mutually beneficial.
Take charge of the conversation and steer it towards discussions revolving around how each can help the other. This leads to networking success!