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Ajilon

2/28/17 – Get Linkedin or Get Left Out!

March 2, 2017 by Michelle Soracco

Get LinkedIn or Get Left Out Feb 2017Written by Michelle Soracco

Keynote Speaker

Ted Robison, Mr. Link-Me-In

Ted started his work life in nuclear engineering and jokingly says that he coaches now to atone for his nuclear-related sins.  His journey to becoming a LinkedIn coach is a fascinating one; if you have a chance to talk with him, be sure to ask him about it.  He’s a passionate and humorous individual, dedicated to coaching others about LinkedIn.

Get Linkedin or Get Left Out!

Do you want to get found by recruiters?  Network with people in your industry?  Find out information about the companies and people you’ll be interviewing with before the interview?  LinkedIn can help you do all of this and more.  Many recruiters and hiring managers use LinkedIn exclusively; if you don’t have a LinkedIn profile, you’re missing opportunities.

Use a professional headshot as your photo for 14x more profile views.  Your headline should have your current job title; consultant or volunteer is a viable title (here’s where I put in a plug for volunteering for Career Connectors!).  Because LinkedIn uses keyword density, be sure to fill out your profile with as many keywords that pertain to your job search as you can.  Your summary should contain skills (hard and soft), experience, expertise and major accomplishments, and style. Style includes: your brand/wow factor, what value you bring to the company and how you differentiate yourself (e.g. problem solver, customer advocate, walk-around manager, etc.).

You should belong to 30-50 groups on LinkedIn.  Join groups and associations that are part of your target market, personal interests, professional associations, school alumni associations, or prior companies.  Go to group meetings, which might require some perseverance.

The hidden job market comprises approximately 80% of all jobs.  To tap into the hidden job market, create a list of target companies, build relationships at these companies and follow the companies on LinkedIn.  One way to create a target company list is to use the Book of Lists from the Phoenix Business Journal.

To prepare for interviews, research the interviewers on LinkedIn.  Knowing their hobbies, jobs and groups can help you connect with them during the interview.  Research the company – product, services, competitors.  Do informational interviews to determine if the culture is a good fit; do my values match with the company’s values?  Know your value prior to the interview.Ted Robison

According to a LinkedIn survey, the three most important items to look for in a candidate during the hiring process are:
1. Motivation/hungriness (being part of a team)
2. Execution ability (adding value)
3. Culture fit

Call to Action:
* Build and  strengthen your profile: keywords
* Create and search your target companies
* Join associations and groups
* Research in preparation for interviews
* Talk to the hiring manager if possible
* Many jobs aren’t posted
***If you do nothing else, network, network, network!***

Hiring Companies

Intel

Gil “GW” Williams, Lead Talent Manager, @JobsatIntel

Intel’s vision:  if it is smart and connected, it is best with Intel.  In the last 6-8 months, Intel has changed its entire strategy to a virtuous cycle of growth revolving around memory, the cloud and data center, FPGA and things and devices.  Intel invested $7B to finish Fab 42, which will create 3000 – 10,000 local jobs, including subcontractors and support services. The majority of the roles are technically inclined, but not all of them.  Do your research and fit everything in the job description before you apply.  No spaghetti recruiting here.

Sonora Quest

Raquel Phelps, Recruiter, @SonoraQuestLabs

Sonora Quest is a joint venture between Banner Health and Quest Diagnostics with 3100 employees in Arizona.  Using the 6 Sigma method, Sonora Quest’s goal is to provide the best patient care by partnering with physicians and focusing on preventative care.  Their benefits are the same as Banner Health. Openings include CRM Systems Analyst, Desktop Engineer, Emergency Management Coordinator, Customer Systems Analyst Sr, Information Security Analyst Sr, Laboratory Manager, Operational Excellence Manager, Strategic Sourcing Director, Medical Lab Scientists and Phlebotomy Leadership.

Ajilon:  Kristina Johnson, Staffing Manager, @ajilon

Accounting Principals:  Michelle Inskeep, Staffing Manager @acctprincipals

Ajilon and Accounting Principals are not your typical temp agencies. Located in the east valley, these two branches are the second best branches in the US! Accounting and finance job seekers should talk to Accounting Principals; administrative, logistics and supply chain job seekers should talk to Ajilon.  Parker and Lynch is the executive branch encompassing both.  Accounting Principals is looking for a candidate with commercial collections experience ($42K-$45K/year), as well as vendor administrative support ($38K/year).  Ajilon is looking for a professional inventory associate ($18-$20/hour), an account manager ($20-$22/hour), and a closing call center supervisor ($18-$20/hour).

Freedom Financial Network

John Hasna, Director of Talent Acquisition, @FreedomFamily

Freedom Financial Network is a debt consulting company that provides financial solutions and services to enable consumers to achieve financial freedom.  Their 3 AZ locations have 1300 employees, and have hired 200 of the 1000 individuals they want to hire this year. They are in the process of building a new campus in Tempe and were recently named as a Phoenix Business Journal “Best Places to Work” Winner. Open positions in Tempe include Java Developers, Product Managers, Corporate Trainer, Compliance Manager, Business Intelligence Analyst, Negotiations Debt Settlement Specialist, Inside Sales Reps and Software Developer.

New Horizons Learning Center, @nhphoenix

Joe Rostowsky, Director of Site Operations

Career Connectors has partnered with New Horizons as their only WIOA-funded school.  New Horizons is an international training organization that serves the needs of top companies to help individuals enhance their current skills and go to the next level in their career.  They offer courses in IT, Office Mgmt, Healthcare Records and Management, Project/Production Mgmt Certifications. Classes are conducted live in a classroom, live online and self-paced online courses, depending on the student’s needs.

Closing

Jessica graciously thanked all of the day’s speakers, volunteers and job seekers for participating. She encouraged job seekers to take advantage of the many Career Connector services like having your resume reviewed, a free professional portrait and visit all of the other services and hiring companies.  She also encouraged everyone to view the career blog, which is up and running and has a lot of good career advice.

Next event in Phoenix: “Use LinkedIn in 15 Minutes Per Day” on Wednesday, Mar 08, 2017 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, due to February being a short month. Register here.

Filed Under: Event Recaps Tagged With: Sonora Quest, Accounting Principals, New Horizons Phoenix, Ajilon, Freedom Financial Network, Intel, Job Search, LinkedIn, Ted Robison

6/1/16 – Start Strong, Finish Stronger: Your Best Self in Your Next Chapter

June 6, 2016 by Sheila

Written by: Connie Huber PHR SHRM-CP

All of us have our own special strengths and weaknesses that influence our career and life. But can you quickly share with someone what your strengths and weaknesses are that define you as an individual?
The best thing you can do with your strengths once they have been identified is to own them as described in the article “Owning It: Identifying Your Strengths and Weaknesses” as shared in Prepary, September 07, 2012.
• “Acknowledge your strengths and truly believe in them.”
• “Put all of your energy into your strengths.”
• “Keep developing your strengths.”
The article goes on to note that defining your weaknesses is far more challenging than establishing your strengths. It is noted just knowing your weaker areas will make you more successful. Prepary encourages us to:
• “Take your weaknesses into account when making career decisions.”
• “Look at the other side.” Weaknesses can be turned around into strength and vice versa.
• “Don’t be too hard on yourself.” Everyone has weak areas!
Lastly, the author reminds us our strengths and weaknesses will always be evolving. As you move forward in your career, not only do you grow and change professionally but also your strengths and weaknesses will adjust and evolve. Embrace the constant evolution and welcome what is to come.

Keynote

Start Strong, Finish Stronger: Your Best Self in Your Next Chapter

Stephanie Clergé

@StrengthsPro

Remember when we were young and you dreamed of growing up and what profession you wanted to pursue? If you are like most, you changed your mind several times. Based on 2012 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the list shared 15 kids’ dream jobs. Among the top 5 were:
1. Astronaut
2. Musician
3. Actor
4. Dancer
5. Teacher
Stephanie began her time with the group sharing the story about her kindergartener sharing during his graduation what he wanted to be when he grew up. This little guy boldly told his fellow students, parents and family he wanted to “kill vampires and zombies!” Needless to say, Stephanie and her husband were horrified with their son’s desires. After much reflection and acceptance, Stephanie came to the conclusion her son’s declaration was not far fetched. When you think about it, the vampires and zombies among us are the walking dead and energy suckers in our work environment.

Stephanie like many of us at Career Connectors has also been in career transition. She knows first hand the frustrations and challenges we encounter during this time.

LESSONS FOR THE ROAD AHEAD
In preparing for your career, you need to consider these key strategies.
1. Know Yourself
2. Plan Your Work
3. Work Your Plan

KNOW YOURSELF
In establishing a strong foundation for career success, we were encouraged to begin in establishing our strengths.
• Why Strengths?
According to Gallup, those employees who focus on their strengths are….6 times as likely to be successful in their roles and 3 times as likely to say they have a high quality of life.
• What is a Strength?
Having a firm understanding of your strengths will….
 Make you feel strong.
 Give you energy.
 Come naturally.
 Identify what you do well.
 Show the part of you that is unique and special.
 Helps you succeed.
• Gallup Definitions
According to Gallup STRENGTH is the ability to consistently provide near-perfect performance in a specific activity. TALENTS are naturally recurring patterns of thought, feeling or behavior that can be productively applied.
• Turning Talent into Strength
Talent is the foundation for your strengths and basis for achieving your full potential. Skills and knowledge are your investment. Skills are the capacity to perform the fundamental steps of an activity. Knowledge is factual and experiential lessons learned. The final touch is passion. Passion is intrinsic satisfaction or the inherent gratification and positive anticipation.

• How do I find my strengths?
There are a number of assessment test that will help you discover your strengths. One assessment that is very reliable and free to Career Connector participants is DISC.
• DISC Assessment
DISC measures your personality and behavioral style. The assessment will ask you to answer a simple questionnaire about your own behavior. You will be asked to select the word that describes you the most or least. There are no right or wrong answers.

PLAN YOUR WORK
In preparing for your job search you need to
 Define your strong career.
 Develop your tools.
 Determine your plan.

LESSONS FOR THE ROAD AHEAD
In preparing for your job search, Stephanie shared with us a few reminders regarding wisdom including: No Road is Easy! Your Strengths help you grow with ease. Learn as you grow! And….. beware of the zombies and vampires in life!!!!

“Success is achieved by developing our strengths, not by eliminating our weaknesses.” Marilyn Savant

HIRING COMPANIES

Abrazo Health
Christi Wedemeyer, Recruiter

Abrazo means embrace and Abrazo Health and its employees strive to help people live happier, healthier lives.. The organization is a leader in healthcare and spans from coast to coast. Abrazo spends approximately 53% of its net revenue on total rewards. Some positions offer a sign on bonus.
Current openings include experienced RN’s, Rehab professionals such as Physical Therapists, Director of Nursing, Nursing Manager, Manger of Medical Staff Services, Manager of Clinical Documentation Program, Director of Quality & Risk Management, Computer professionals along with many other healthcare related positions, both clinical and nonclinical.

Ajilon & Parker & Lynch
Ajilon: Katy Lyden, Managing Director
Parker & Lynch: Nicole Heckaman, Executive Director

Ajilon is a leader in temporary and permanent placement of Human Resources, Administrative, Supply Chain & Logistics, Non-Clinical Healthcare and Operational Professionals. Parker & Lynch is a leader in Finance and Accounting recruitment. Its focus on people is what sets the organization from others.
Job seekers are able to have their resume reviewed, practice interviews and interview prep, competitive salary information, salary and offer negotiation, detailed market information, customized candidate marketing strategy and overall support through the entire hiring practice.
Opportunities available at Parker Lynch include Senior Accountant, Sr. Financial Analyst, Controller, CFO, Accounting Manager, and Staff Accountant.
Ajilon has openings for HR Generalist, Executive Assistant, Full Cycle Recruiter, Administrative Assistant, Customer Service, Medical Front Office and Logistics Specialist, and Procurement. Ajilon has needs for an Accounting Associate, Payroll Clerk, AP Clerk, AR Clerk, and Medical Biller.

State Farm
DeAnne Prigmore, Recruiter

The State Farm mission is to help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected and realize their dreams. State Farm is building a 2 million square feet campus in Tempe by ASU and will house 8-10,000 employees. It will consist of four buildings and house varied retail outlets along with restaurants and fitness center. The organization has great benefit offerings including a pension plan and base salary plus commission. A sampling of open opportunities includes entry-level positions such as Claims Associate for Initial Loss Reporting, Express and Interpretation Representative, Customer Care Service and Sales Representative. Bank openings include Bank Supervisor, Loan Processor & Loan Services Representative, Bank Support Rep & Customer Service Rep. Immediate Systems and IT opportunities include Software Developer, Infra Analysts for Malware Tool Support and Tech Support, IT Analyst-Solutions and Bank Technical Analyst.  DeAnne extended an invitation to visit the new facility in Marina Heights.

Resources

Arizona@Work, City of Phoenix
Waleed Alani, Employment Specialist

Waleed shared with the group the latest unemployment statistics. There are currently approximately 69,000 available jobs in the Phoenix area. The numbers are down a little due to the quickly approaching summer months and election. Opportunities include retail, hotel management, project management and nurses. Some of the top skills being requested are bilingual, quality assurance, IT networking, quality control and IT networking project management. A sampling of hiring employers include Banner Health, Honor Health, CVS Health, Dignity Health, Pizza Hut, United Healthcare, Bank of America, Well Fargo and Oracle.
Waleed enlightened us with the different skill development packages offered by the City of Phoenix. Those include Seminars available to the public; Level 1 Package-Skills Match the Job Market; and Level 2 Package-Research Pathways to Higher Wages. Seminars include: Arizona Job Connection (AJC), How to Create a Winning Resume, Perfecting Your Interviewing Skills, Mock Interview Lab, Understanding LinkedIn, Leveraging LinkedIn, 21st Century Job Search Seminar, and Job Clubs. The 3-day sessions are focused on ways to jumpstart your job search. Topics discussed are Social Skills, Creating and Implementing a Job Search Plan, Interviewing, and Long Term Career Management. The 3-hour session emphasizes Employability. For more details on the Skills Development Packages, reach out to Waleed at 602-255-4628 or waleed.alani@phoenix.gov.
If interested in a job with the state of Arizona or City of Phoenix please go to Arizona at Work.

Dynamic Worldwide Training Consultants
Rodger Brubacher, Director of Continuing Education

Dynamic Worldwide will prepare you with an edge in this competitive job market. DWWTC offers programs and certificates in professional development, cyber security programs, advanced cyber security programs and information technology. DWWTC was awarded the 2015 Juniper Platinum Education Partner of the Year for its award winning instruction. The facilities are state of the art and maintain a low student to instructor ratio. Instruction is available on multiple platforms. DWWTC is licensed by the State Board for Private Postsecondary Education; certified through Arizona@Work; and approved for Grant Programs. For more information, please visit the website.

Closing

Jessica Pierce, Executive Director, Career Connectors, closed the meeting by thanking North Phoenix Baptist Church and the volunteers. The next Career Connectors meeting will be in Scottsdale on Thursday, June 9, 2016 and features Deborah Dubree as speaker for the topic “Up Yours! Up Your Power, Up Your Performance, Up Your Personal Pitch!” For additional information on this event and future events, please visit the website.

Filed Under: Event Recaps Tagged With: Parker & Lynch, Abrazo Health, DWWTC, Ajilon, Finding Your Strengths, StrengthsPro, Stephanie Clerge, State Farm

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I am profoundly grateful for all of the support Career Connectors has provided during my recent job search – from the exceptional speakers to the participating employers, LinkedIn experts (Ted Robison is amazing with his individualized approach), resume experts, photographers, and of course the great opportunity to network! I felt like I had an army of support with me every single day. I appreciate all the time and effort invested by many and am particularly grateful for Jessica! You have a fi… Read more
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Thank you, Jessica. Although I wasn’t able to meet you personally, I was able to see you working with another applicant and was impressed with your efforts and the excellent platform that your team presented. Thank you very much.
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It was amazing, you guys did a great job! I found several potential companies!
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A good friend told me of her success using Career Connectors networking.  She landed an interview and later, a job in her field, after attending one networking event.  So, when it was my turn, I had to check it out. I was starting to get the blues about being unemployed but the speaker lifted me out of the dumps and put my life back in perspective. So many people were there to help and offer support!   Just by networking that day, I was given a job lead that has led to two interviews and a… Read more
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