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Event Recaps

1/17/19 – Financial Services/Insurance Panel

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Written by Jim McBride

Time to put your transferable skills into action? Have a driving passion for serving customers? Interested in navigating the career lattice? If so, you may be the perfect fit in both of these top five growth industries in Phoenix: Insurance and Financial Services!

Unique industry insights from two round-table panels of recruiting experts, hosted by Jessica Pierce, sparked lively discussion on the hottest jobs and how to start your career transition. Our audience of job seekers and networkers heard Q&A topics ranging from getting started without previous industry experience, to career pathways and industry myth-busting. Keep reading for a full recap.

PANEL 1 – Career Advancement in the Culture of the Insurance Industry

State Farm – Molly Romine, Recruiter
Farmers – Steven Acevedo, Supervisor
Liberty Mutual – John Walters, President, AZ Insurance Institute

Q – What advice do you have for people who are interested in pursuing career opportunities in the insurance industry?

A – We are always looking for people with a positive mentality. It’s so important to always be positive. Do your research – spend time connecting with people in the industry, read blog posts, get to KNOW the industry, learn the acronyms and become a practitioner of knowledge. Be yourself – we want a glimpse into your life, so you can be a superstar and have an amazing experience.

Q – Sometimes Insurance companies get a bad rap. What myths can you shatter?

A – Going in, I was planning on a career pivot within two years because I thought it would be boring! I soon recognized there’s so much more beyond the entry level position. Our company is like a mini-city, you are able to pursue so many other things within the organization. There’s a perception that insurance is all about being an agent. But there are lots of moving parts in areas like claims, underwriting and IT, just to name a few. There’s no college major that doesn’t apply to the insurance industry. There are lots of non-traditional roles. We’ve employed nurses, doctors and even physicists.

Q – What has kept you engaged?

A – The ability to keep on my learning path, finishing up my master’s program with the financial assistance that was provided. Plus, there are so many great people. The industry is known for attention to work-life balance. Only 10% of our workforce is call center and there are work-from-home opportunities at nearly all levels. There’s huge flexibility with work schedules. In the call center we are honoring our commitment to the customer so there is a need for schedule adherence, but we are not looking for robots.

Q- What are the career pathways once employees come on board?

A – I refer to this as career lattice. You can grow sideways – left or right – as well as diagonal. You’re navigating the lattice versus the career ladder. For some, the best career move may be lateral. It’s important to find an internal mentor as well as a mentor within the industry. Identify your interests and strengths. There are plenty of internal opportunities, keep your eyes open and decide which direction you’d like to go. Keep in mind, there are new jobs being created that didn’t exist 5 – 10 years ago.

Q – What are some tips for people who are pursuing senior management roles?

A – There definitely are openings. We’re always looking for talent and there’s always a need for leaders. The positions are typically posted internally first, then externally. If starting at entry level isn’t for you, network in the industry and learn about the jobs that aren’t posted yet. Learning the ropes really helps. We do try to promote from within, which can make it tough for external candidates. However, we know external candidates have valuable niche skills and the desire to compete for these roles.

Q – What is the outlook in the next 2 – 5 years in the insurance industry?

A – Phoenix is a great labor and academic market. The area is not disaster prone (no floods, hurricanes, etc.) so that’s why we’re here. Industry change is being driven by technology, regulation and consumer demand. As technology improves, our ability to serve improves. We’re not like Blockbuster, the movie video tape company that didn’t change with the times.

Q – What are the hot careers?

A – Jobs in IT, telematics, artificial intelligence, data science, programming, data platforms are all really hot. So is leadership. Great leaders can be hard to come by. Showcase your talent from other places you’ve worked.

Q – What are the benefits you offer?

A – We offer a cafeteria-style. It’s very broad and generous. We want your mind free and clear, not worried about insurance coverage. The benefits are not cookie-cutter. We match the diversity of our employee groups. For example: just out of college, single parent, looking to adopt – it’s designed for different stages of an employee’s life cycle. Tuition reimbursement is very popular.

Q – (audience) Are there any programs for hiring seniors (50+)?

A – Jobs are open for people of all ages. Some roles may be more attractive to seasoned job seekers. There’s been a noticeable increase in the number of part-time retirees who are looking for a flexible schedule.

Q – (audience) What is the best way to navigate a job fair? The job I’m looking for is not available and I’m directed to watch the website for postings.

A – There’s no easy answer to this question. If we’re at a job fair looking for customer service people, that’s going to be our focus. The best answer is to dig in on the website and make sure to network. We have employee referral programs, reach out and connect with current employees. They will be motivated to help you.

Q – (audience) – What is the best way to prepare for an interview?

A – Be ready for behavior-based questions. We’ll be looking for specific examples of situations from your past. Come up with a list of 10 examples and practice. This is what happened…this is how I handled it.

PANEL 2 – Never Expected to be Where I am Today – Financial Services

Freedom Financial Network  – Heather Marcom, Head of Talent Acquisition
Chase – Lekheythan Malone, Sr. Recruiter
Greater Phoenix Chamber Foundation (Financial Training) – Brittany Holmes, Workforce Development Manager

Q – What skills do you need to move into financial services?

A – We hire from all kinds of work experience. It’s really all about how you communicate with customers. We’re not just call centers. There are plenty of opportunities in roles beyond the call center.

Q – Financial services does not always sound exciting and fun. Why do you like this industry?

A – There is a common theme, we are passionate about serving our clients; educating and answering questions to help people achieve their financial goals in life. We have empathy for people when they need our help. We offer great benefits and we’re growing, which is very exciting.

Q – What if a job seeker has no previous financial services experience, are there opportunities?

A – The call center is typically where you start. Although over 50% of our roles are filled internally, we are looking for skills that are transferable. We also focus on a competency and culture fit. Be able to articulate your transferable skills, verbally and on your resume. If we understand your transferable skills, we can help direct you. It takes effort. Do your research and don’t ask, “whadya got?” You should always know what specific job you are seeking.

To build your industry knowledge, make a point of attending an industry conference to network, learn something new or brush up on best practices. Some positions require a license. Getting into a licensing program shows initiative and a commitment that you’re ready for the securities industry. There are four-week programs with outplacement assistance through the Greater Phoenix Chamber Foundation.  (See:  Financial Industry Training Open House)

Q – What are the career pathways in financial services?

A – We’re building a path from our customer service “farm team” and coaching people through the career ladder. But we’re still figuring it out because we’re a new company. Internal opportunities are numerous with so many different and diverse lines of business, so there’s lots to explore. It depends on want you want to accomplish in your career and we encourage employees to move around. Managers have career development on their score card, so they are having those conversations with their direct reports.

Q – What is the future of the industry?

A – We are piloting part-time roles in our core services because workforce flexibility is critical. More automation is coming, so make sure you keep up on your skills. You HAVE to be tech savvy, so don’t get left behind. We still need lots of people behind the technology to serve customers.

Q – What are the attractive benefits beyond the standard suite?

A – Freedom Financial Network:  Voted Best Place to Work in Phoenix. Cafeteria, coffee bar, covered outdoor seating areas, BBQ, games, core values C.A.R.E., time off on your birthday, time off to volunteer.

Chase: Internal resume and interviewing workshops, coaching and networking. Retirement portfolio flexibility options.

Q – If someone has a credit history issue, are they eligible to work?

A – Yes, you would be eligible for 95% of the roles. A typical background investigation is conducted on prospective employees but only a limited number of roles require a credit history check.

Q – (audience) If I’m looking for a manager role, what job title should I put on my resume to get it through the applicant tracking system?

If you’re applying with just one resume for every job, you’re using the wrong approach. Look at each job description and customize your resume to that job. Drop in key words and don’t worry so much about the job title. Recruiters recognize that job titles can vary. And remember, a recruiter will spend about 30 seconds scanning your resume.

RESOURCES

GCU – Jim Pangborn, Director

GCU offers an IT functionality “boot camp” featuring an in-depth program to build your skills for a career in the technology field. GCU also provides business management MBA programs and continuing education for those interested in adding on to their skill set.

Numerous open staff positions at GCU, featuring:
• Director of Compensation
• Sr. Financial Analyst

jobs@gcu.edu
jobs@gce.com

CLOSING

Jessica Pierce closed the meeting with a review of upcoming events. Up next, “Put Your Strengths to Work – Find a Job that Fits” featuring Stephanie Clergé on Tuesday, January 22nd in Gilbert. Jessica acknowledged the many partners and volunteers who help make Career Connectors a success!

01/10/19 – New Year, New Career

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Written by Gary Matsuda

Keynote – New Year, New Career

Yikes! Another YEAR just went by and you still haven’t found what you are looking for? If you’ve watched the calendar turn another year while your career plans got stuck somewhere back in March, then Dave Sherman has some tips for you!

Dave was one of the first presenters at Career Connectors when the organization was just getting started and returned this week to kick off the new year, bringing a fresh focus and energy into your job search. He is now an entrepreneur, speaker and author of 3 bestselling books on networking and sales. Dave was once an employee who had never been fired, a ‘what, me worry’ type of guy, until he was laid off and went through a frustrating job hunt experience. His talk exudes a sense of urgency and gives clear reasons and encouragement to get up and start again.

Here is a summary of Dave’s tips on getting career change to happen:

Tip 1: Embrace your decision (of making a change)
Sometimes we find it easier to worry and put things off, rather than making a decision that’s actually good for us. It’s as if we prefer being terrified and keeping ourselves up at night instead of taking the first step toward making a change. When we feel overwhelmed, fear can take over and push aside logical thinking.

INDECISION – It’s easier to stick to a decision once it’s made. Make the first step a small one – a very small one if necessary, so that it’s easier to make a commitment.

EXPLANATIONS – Beware of explaining away indecision. Excuses can come from your own self-doubt or from those who say you can’t do something, that you don’t have enough training or experience. Stick to your decision on why you’re doing this, so you can take the next steps to explore new paths and take it as far as you can go.

VALIDATION – Get support from select friends and family who know you well and understand your challenge.

NEGATIVITY – If you know you’re making the right decision for yourself, avoid those who say or imply that you can’t do it. Spend more time where you’ll be encouraged. If you are on social media, spend more time on LinkedIn which is almost all positive.

Tip 2: Examine job boards
Dave is a dedicated movie buff. But he doesn’t go out just to see any movie. Like you, before committing a few dollars and a couple hours in front a screen, if a movie title attracts him, he’ll want to know the genre, what the critics are saying and if it’s now playing in a theater near him.

Same thing with your job search, you wouldn’t want to go for just any job posted out there. Get a sense for the needs and problems companies are trying to solve and how you might be able to provide help. To see what critics (current and former employees) are saying, you can go to Glassdoor.com. Dave prefers ZipRecruiter, but also check out job postings on Indeed, Ladders, Monster to get an idea of what’s out there to see what’s trending and what skills are in demand.

But you say: ‘Job boards? – been there done that, haven’t found anything’. Well try this trick for online job searches (or for any online search): flip your search keywords around to get slightly different results. Remember, use job boards as just one of your tools, not a cure-all. Not all jobs are listed on job boards and some can even be hidden from you through search engine algorithms.

Tip 3: Meet more people
If your trash goes out more than you do, then you have a problem. Plain and simple – you need to get out more! Technology has made it way too easy for us to be consumers of experiences and information in the comfort of our own home.

One great way to meet face to face with those who may be able to help you are thousands of networking groups, associations, industry groups and special interest organizations that may fit your interests. These can be: local chambers of commerce, career transition groups, niche focused casual meet up groups that exist for a specific reason – to grow business or promote a special interest. These could be opportunities for meeting the right person who can help guide you in the right direction.

Remember, the narrower your niche, the better you’ll meet the right people. Randomly trying to connect with anyone and with as many people as possible will dilute your energy and focus, so find a group that shares your interests and goals. You will more likely find people who will recognize your experience and skills. Getting out of house to meet new contacts can be uncomfortable and inconvenient. To make it part of your routine, Dave suggests that you allocate certain days to network. You might even take it a bit farther and schedule time to reach out to people for a few minutes every day.

As professionals, it sometimes goes against our nature to ask for help because it may give us the feeling of vulnerability. Ask for help but make sure you are not just looking out for yourself, but also be giving and thinking of what others need. Be the solution that companies are looking for.

Don’t say you’re out of a job, but that you’re exploring a new adventure, or looking for new options. Frame your situation differently and turn it around to positive.

Suggestions for working networking events:

1. Show up! Get there early before the meeting when everyone is fresh.

2. Bring a business card! A good quality card, not cheap looking. This helps to make it easy for them to remember you if they ask for a card.

3. Find commonality! Don’t get too serious and pull out your resume right away. Be ready to find a way to connect easily with someone new on a personal level. Be prepared to chat about your interests, family, movie, school, hometown, hobby, food, sports, (Dave often uses his personal likes of movies, wine and cigars).

4. Be likeable! Instead of trying to be interesting, be interested in others. Ask questions, but it must be genuine and not feel like an interrogation.

5. Ask: ‘Who do you know?’ ‘Do you know anyone who might know a contact or have connections at XYZ company?’ You might not get an immediate intro to the right job, so expect to go through several degrees of separation to find the right company/position.

Dave emphasizes to keep looking for what you want, everywhere and anywhere. People are willing to help, but if you show uncertainly on what you are looking for, it will be harder for them to relate to you and your situation. It’s up to you to make it easy for them to help, so give them an idea of what you can do, where you want to work and what value you bring. The more specific you are, the more likely you’ll be guided to the right people.

So, there you have it – time tested tips to find your new opportunity, but you must take action. It’s another new year, don’t think about it too much, do something now to get your career going!

Hiring Companies

Paychex
Jeff Shaw, Recruiter
Looking for a place to grow personally and professionally? This is a major provider of HR and Human Capital Management Solutions for small, medium and large organizations. Paychex has been rated for the 9th time as one of the most ethical companies by The Ethisphere Institute; and as Best Employer for Healthy Lifestyles for the 7th time by the National Business Group on Health.

However, the best benefit of working for Paychex may be that they offer Individual learning and growth. Need stability as well? They are in good financial condition – debt free and there have never been layoffs! Even if what Paychex offers doesn’t satisfy all your passions, if there is a cause that you’re really interested in, you might even get paid for volunteering! Paychex is now hiring for: Payroll service associates process, insurance, 401k advisor and coordinator, HR generalist support. The IT department is currently being bu

Resources

Goodwill of Central and Northern Arizona
Ron Mack, Community Awareness Partner
Need help getting started? You might not know that Goodwill is not just a retail store but an organization that provides opportunities which serve community needs and help professional job seekers become self-sufficient and put people back to work. The Goodwill Career Center offers free career coaching, resume critiquing, job leads from employers, mock interviews, and digital skills training classes from beginning to advanced in 3 locations in Phoenix.

Grand Canyon University
Robert Loy, Head of Education of Non-degreed Technology Programs
Detail oriented? Like to put things in their right place? Good at recognizing patterns? Or like to teach? GCU is looking for instructors if you have master’s degree, they’re also hiring for corporate university positions. For those want to change careers and go back to school for IT, there is a 16 week Coding Bootcamp that almost guarantees successful employment! College credit for bootcamp. $11,500 to $20K.

Closing & Upcoming Events:

Greater Phoenix Healthcare Expo
January 31, 2019 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
University of Phoenix
4045 S Riverpoint Pkwy
Phoenix AZ 85040

Career Connectors Volunteer Events:
AZ Brainfood
Thursday, January 24, 2019
8:30 am to 10:30 am
325 E McKellips Road
Mesa AZ
If you are interested in participating, email:   Sheila@careerconnectors.org

Feed My Starving Children
February 1, 2019
8:30 pm-10:00 pm
1345 S Alma School Road
Mesa, AZ
To join, sign up at:  www.fmsc.org **must use Code:  WNWNZB

 

12/13/18 – 5 Superpowers To Be Unstoppable

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Jean BrieseWritten by Rachel Gersten

KEYNOTE PRESENTATION

5 Superpowers To Be Unstoppable

Jean Briese

Jean Briese has been honored as Arizona’s highest ranked motivational speaker and business coach. Prior to starting her own business, Jean spent 25 years leading successful sales teams in corporate American.

Jean started her speech by sharing a story from her childhood. She was the oldest of 4 raised by a single mother who left her children two weeks before Christmas when Jean was 15 years old and the youngest sibling was only 5 years old. Through these painful early life lessons, Jean developed the superpowers necessary for success.

3 Things To Focus On:

Inspiration

Information

Transformation

The Superpowers recommended by Jean are:

Superpower Number 1
The Power of Habits 

Jean looked at behaviors of top performers in various fields. One of which was Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian in history.  He doesn’t believe in can’t and will not even think or say the word can’t. Instead he envisions himself successful and overcomes obstacles.

Superpower Number 2
The Power of Purpose

Each of us has a set of talents and gifts. Stop to think about who you are and what makes you special. No one has the same gifts, experiences, and knowledge as you do. Look to your passions. A strategy Jean recommended is to send out an email asking friends and colleagues to list 3 of your strengths and 1 weakness. Then pick 1 strength and make yourself amazing at it.

Superpower Number 3
The Power of Your Beliefs

A negative mind will never give you a positive life. Jean spoke about her negative feeling about not having a college degree, but she turned that negative self-doubt around and said I have everything I need for success.

Superpower Number 4
The Power of People

We rise and fall to the level of our relationships. Some people are blessings and some people are lessons. Try and surround yourself with positive people. Ask yourself these questions and work on your answers. How should I add people to my circle? Do I have a mentor?

Superpower Number 5
The Power of Actions

Fear is the number 1 reason we don’t take action.  It’s important to remember one must fail first to accomplish anything. A recommendation Jean had for the group was to commit to one idea by putting it on your calendar and doing it within the next 24 hours.

Jean concluded her remarks by reminding us, THE TIME IS NOW.

HIRING COMPANIES

Career Evolutions

Christian Kaijser, Managing Director

Career Evolutions a recruiting agency that opened its doors during one of our countries’ worst recessions in November of 2008. The company has thrived in large part due to their understanding of how to brand the job seeker properly and knowledge of the ever-changing job market.

Top 10 Search Tips:

  • Start the search immediately.
  • Treat the search like a job.
  • Be open to consulting/freelancing.
  • Don’t panic, be patient.
  • Stay fit and relaxed.
  • Network, Network, Network.
  • Have a dynamic relevant resume.
  • Manage your personal and professional brand.
  • Do your homework.
  • Don’t talk about salary too early.

Solar Mosaic

Eve Clark, Recruiter

Mosaic makes it simple to go solar by leveraging technology and financial innovation, with a goal of providing access to clean energy for everyone.

Positions Available:

  • Customer Support Associates
  • Sales
  • Credit Underwriting Reps
  • Salesforce Administrator
  • Software Engineering Manager
  • System/DevOps Engineer

Farmers Insurance

Surrie Atkins, Recruiter

Established in 1928 Farmers Insurance has been an innovative leader providing care and assistance when help is needed the most. Farmer Insurance offers an extensive array of coverage options. They have been recognized as a leading insurer for small and mid size businesses. Due to the companies ongoing success Farmers Insurance will be hiring an additional 1000 employees to work in their North Phoenix office.

Positions Available:

  • Customer Service
  • Inbound Sales

RESOURCES

Rohn Financial

Tom Rohn and Jamey Pugh

Five Financial Keys to a Successful Job Transition

  • Do a financial reality check, which entails creating a spending plan- for example, the everyday extras like a cup of coffee from Starbucks may no longer be in your budget.
  • Create additional income sources, such as freelance work and part-time work.
  • Manage your debt. If you have credit card debt, call the credit card company and explain your situation and discuss your options with them. Also remember to stop using cards.
  • Maintain proper insurance coverage such as medical, life, car and homeowners insurance.
  • Ask for help from a trusted advisor.

Rohn Financial Services Include:

  • One hour consultation
  • Budget forms
  • 401K rollover
  • Financial planning
  • Direct2MD

WozU

Jason Jones, Strategic Partnership Specialist

The University’s Mission Statement is to bring opportunities in the technology field to the masses. WozU has a passion for education. For a career in technology, students will learn different computer languages such as Java, .NET, Ruby on Rails as well as Data Science and Cyber Security. If you are transitioning in your career and wish to learn more about technology, contact a representative at WozU for additional information. They provide career services support.

CLOSING

Jessica Pierce wrapped up the meeting by reminding the group to visit the Career Connectors website at https://careerconnectors.org for additional information on upcoming meetings, support tools and event recaps. She went on to thank our wonderful host Highlands Church for their support, as well as, all our amazing corporate sponsors and volunteers. Also, Jessica spoke about upcoming events. The next meeting will be held on January 10th, 9 am at the Phoenix location of Grand Canyon University – 5115 N 27th Ave, Phoenix, AZ. Please remember to sign up online for our next meeting. Seasons Greetings!

I will end our last blog of 2018 with a quote from Laird Hamilton. “Make sure your worst enemy doesn’t live between your two ears.” Stay positive! 2019 will be an amazing year.

12/06/18 – Phoenix Labor Market Trends

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JessicAWritten by Debbie Arnold

KEYNOTE

Opening Remarks: Jessica Pierce provided her background and reason for starting Career Connectors. Jessica then moved into the top five growing industries in Arizona:

  1. Advanced Manufacturing: Arizona is Top 5 in the nation for space & defense manufacturing. Hot careers include Industrial Engineering Techs, First Line Supervisors, Maintenance and Repair Workers, Computer Machine Operators, Machinists, and Welders.
  2. Aerospace and Defense: With a projected 18% employment growth, this category represents Arizona’s 4th largest employment with over 32,000 workers and more than 1,200 companies. Hot careers include Aerospace Engineers, Aerospace Techs, Mechanical Engineers, Software Developers and Electrical Engineers.
  3. Business and Financial Services: This includes insurance, banking and business services like data processing, hosting and related service companies. Hot careers include General and Ops Managers, Production Managers, Admin Assistants, Customer Service Reps, Training and Development Specialists, Research Analysts and Human Resources Specialists.
  4. Emerging Technology: We have more than 75 incubators around the state where technology is being developed in collaboration. Hot careers here include Computer Systems Analysts, Information Security Analysts, Computer Programmers, Software Developers, Web Developers, Database Administrators and User Support Specialists.
  5. Healthcare and Biomedical: Here we will see an estimated 54,000 new jobs in the next decade. Hot careers include Medical/Health Service Managers, Pharmacists, Physical Therapists, Registered Nurses, Nurse Practitioners, Medical Records Techs, Nursing Assistants and Phlebotomists.

Jessica reviewed the Recruitment Life Cycle with attendees. Referrals are strong through those who are employed. Good employees tend to refer others who are the same. Reputational impacts are always top of mind. Jessica recommends getting to know people and always trying to speak to recruiters. Likability is a major factor in job selection for the recruiter. Often recruiters know whether you are compatible with them within a few minutes. Chemistry between the recruitee and recruiter is key.

Social media is another great option to identify potential employers. Ask friends how they like their companies. Find out if they know someone who is at the target company of which you are seeking. It is a fact that 90% of recruiters review a candidate’s social media online. Jessica recommended that candidates always maintain a current Linked In profile. Additionally, ensure the Linked In profile always aligns with the candidates’ resume.

Examples where recruiters may view the candidate in a negative light include negative comments the candidate posts about their current or previous employers. Avoid doing this at all costs. Jessica encouraged attendees at today’s event to jot down things they could do to connect with potential employers using social media. Secondly, Jessica explained that most recruiters leverage three areas to decide on the right fit for their company: character, competency and culture. PipelineAZ.com will provide a candidate with a roadmap to their desired end. It is going to be a free service. It was display upward and lateral opportunities whereas it takes a candidates transferrable skills and maps the candidate to a position or industry that fits them. Use this website as a means of finding the right steps to transition into the position in which you are interested.

Jessica encouraged ongoing learning and education by candidates. It can be as simple as showing a potential employer that a candidate is current by placing an iPhone on the table during the interview. On silent mode, of course. Jessica also reminded attendees that it is wise to ask those who are closest to candidates to provide insights they may not see in themselves. Document traits of the company and research the company prior to the interview. It is very important to understand whether a candidate is a good fit for the culture of the company. Individuals who are over 50 have excellent qualities to share such as; fewer distractions, and patience with experience. Lastly, Jessica offers the advice of dressing to impress for the interview, having a good firm handshake by matching the other person’s grip.

Jessica ended with validating that a potential candidate can and will land the right position. Stay positive and true to your brand. It will happen!

HIRING COMPANIES

WebPT, Jessica Jackson, Talent Acquisition Manager’s opening remarks included her background in the 90s where she began working in an HR capacity as a result of a layoff. During this time, Jessica met Jessica Pierce who assisted her company with recruiting efforts. Jessica reminded attendees to consider all of their experiences and make the most of their networking opportunities at Career Connector events. Jessica moved into showcasing her current employer, WebPT. Within 3 years, this company grew to be the fastest privately held company. They employ over 500 team members and service 80,000 members. They are a casual company that is collaborative and fun. Toni Rucker is a recruiter for the technology positions. She explained the traditional IT helpdesk structure as well as other frameworks that she hires for at WebPT. This includes customer service, software engineering, and scrum master-type roles. Scrum master is described as the liaison between the stakeholder and the developing team.

Farmers Insurance presenter was Surrie Atkins. Surrie began her discussion with a video about the company where attendees learned about the culture of the company, what they value, and the message that customers are at the center of their work. Philanthropy definitely appears to be at the heart of the company. Surrie explained that Farmers is growing by 1,200 people in 2019. For today, Surrie has openings at the I-17/Bell Road location. Two positions are both in customer service at the contact center. Team members will need to obtain their license which is paid for by Farmers. Their philosophy is “low effort” on the part of the customer. Make it easy for customers to deal with their company. The second position is located in an inbound call center. It is heavy customer service and sales for inbound only. This role is base pay plus incentive. Surrie closed her presentation with a video, spotlighting HR recruiting efforts at the company. Attendees asked Surrie questions around number of calls, how a customer service individual is able to meet average talk times, and how the team member can be successful in progressing upward to higher level positions.

Allstate representative in today’s session was Steve Morin, Senior Sourcing Consultant. Steve described opportunities in HR, IT, and agency owner options. Allstate has over 70,000 employees who serve over 16 million households, making the 64th on Forbes top 100 employers list. Steve explained Allstate’s culture about fitting needs to customers. For the agency owner option, this is an “owned” business whereby an individual can transfer ownership to their family. It is 100k in initial liquid capital at lift off. They require this to sustain business the first year. Insurance is a need that everyone shares. It is in high demand and recession proof. There is repeat revenue through renewals of policies. Like Farmer’s, Allstate does have a national brand. The company is competitive with a takeaway of 20 percent of what agency owners write. They also receive 6 percent in marketing tools to be successful including social media. Annual income ranges from low hundreds up to 600,000, and beyond, depending on effort of the owner agent. Allstate moves beyond a selling company. There is variety such as claims, underwriting, and community relationship-building. Allstate does not require previous experience. They will develop their talent. Allstate is a strong supporter of veterans. They also offer a $6,000 bonus referral for owner-agent opportunities. Insurance is one of top five industries in AZ.

RESOURCES

Grand Canyon University (GCU) presenter was Robert (Rob) Loy. Rob is the Head of the non-degreed Technology Programs. Rob provided his background in IT and Communications. When given the opportunity, he welcomed a change to something that he wanted to do for the rest of his career. Rob opened the floor by welcoming students to discuss their experiences at GCU. One attendee asked a student how they were trained to learn coding and prepare for job opportunities in this field. The student offered several helpful options that equip students for future employment. Further expansion of the demonstration included mock ups of the coding. It was extremely insightful for those who were interested in IT and interested in what occurs “on the back end” of a website. One of the students described coding applications such as Java that will “talk to” other databases.

Goodwill presenter Ron Mack shared Goodwill’s mission and resources. Goodwill provides career coaching through an advisor where they will review the process and conduct testing to see where a candidate best aligns. Top services are resume critiquing and mock interviewing.

CLOSING

At closing, Sheila Coulam welcomed attendees to take advantage of professional photos to update LinkedIn profile pictures. All in all a successful session on December 6, at GCU. Sheila thanked the volunteers. Sheila also requested the attendees complete a survey and thanked all attendees for coming today! Sheila ended the session with an inspiring quote:

Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence. Helen Keller

11/13/2018 – Overcoming the Stress of Change

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Johnny LaurentWritten by Mary Peralta

KEYNOTE PRESENTATION

Overcoming the Stress of Change

Johnny Laurent – High tech Leader, Coach, Trainer, Speaker, Consultant

Johnny Laurent spent 30 years working for Corporate America, and loves to learn.  He believes we learn most from things around us rather than from books.

Stress-Creating Change is change which raises stress levels…

  • Job loss or change
  • Promotion
  • Relationship issues
  • Physical issues
  • Money

Stress is caused not by what happens to us, but by how we respond to what happens to us.

The Ripple Method is a four step process to methodically handle change in our life.  It is a four step process to get from where you are to where you want to be.

Ripple One – Discover Yourself

  • Assess yourself
  • Involve others
  • Just the facts
    • Why are others not successful?
    • What do you think this office needs?
    • Be willing to take the chance.
    • Consider me.

Ripple Two – Building Foundations

  • Determine the gaps
  • Skill development
  • Tactical plan of execution

Ripple Three – Learning Together

  • Peer group
  • Safe learning environments
  • Open and candid

Ripple Four – Create Accountability

  • Person of trust
  • Openness to feedback
  • Not a “yes” person

Stress is how you react to situations you are in.  Put a plan in place, so you can react to the plan.  No matter what you are trying to change, these sets can help you.  Don’t rely on yourself.  Get help; don’t do it alone.  Find out who you are to get to where you want to be.  If you don’t have friends to help, invest in a Coach.  Tell someone what you want to do.  Make a commitment to yourself, and put a plan in place.

HIRING COMPANIES

FIREFLY EDUCATE

Diane Greenlee – Talent Acquisition Consultant & Paul Quinn – IT Recruitment Specialist

Firefly Educate is a global IT training company headquartered in Chandler, Arizona.  They utilize expert instructors to provide technical training on next-gen networking, computing and storage technologies.

Open Positions

  • Account Manager (must be coachable and have a sales background)
  • Business Development Specialist

ALLSTATE

Steve Morin – Senior Sourcing Consultant

Allstate is in over 16 million homes, is #84 on the Fortune 500 List, and continues to grow.

Open Positions

  • Information Technology (4)
  • Human Resources (2)
  • Product (1)
  • Claims (6)
  • Sales Management (2)
  • Executive Financial Specialist
  • Agency Owner
  • Licensed Sales Producers

RESOURCES

VCANDIDATES

LT Ladino Bryson – CEO/CMO Founder

  • They are the Next Generation Recruiting Tools!
  • They are a three-pronged recruiting tool supports small to medium staffing firms.
  • They expedite the search, screening, hiring, and presentation processes making recruiters more efficient.

WOZ U

Jason Jones – Strategic Partnership Specialist

  • Coding bootcamp for software development, cyber security and data science
  • Provides a quality technical education to each student that attends their program
  • Supports each student in finding a career in the technology field
  • Offers lifetime support to each student

CLOSING

The December Career Connectors events are scheduled for Thursday, December 6th in Phoenix – Master Your Mindset to Land Your Next Job, and Thursday, December 13th in Scottsdale – Becoming Unstoppable – register today.

Jessica thanked Central Christian Church in Gilbert, our host facility, and gave a big shout out all our volunteers.