[richardmarr]

My tuppence would be to attend events and meet people in person... as once you've established a credible relationship it's easier to convince a potential employer to give you a shot.

From their perspective it's about risk. Commercial experience de-risks you as a potential hire, but so does a relationship, even a new one.

If you make it to London get in touch with me and if I can help I will. My email is richard dot marr at empora dot com

Edit: another route would be to take part in open source projects with a strong contingent in London.

[cmgv]

Thank you for your help and for your contact information. I will get in touch when I move to London. I understand what you suggest, however it is hard to attend events/meeting in London still having a job here. If I cannot find anything first, I am considering taking the risk of moving without a job and try to find one onsite. But that is something I really need to give a thought. On the other hand, joining another open source project with folks from London would imply perhaps another year before I could move... To be honest, I am not sure I could maintain my professionalism for such a long time and continue doing my job.