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4/12/18 — Energize Your Career Transition with DISC

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Written By Susan Lamphiear

“Self Awareness is one of the rarest of human commodities. I don’t mean self consciousness where you’re limiting and evaluating yourself. I mean being aware of your own patterns.”  Tony Robbins

Bingo! It seems Robbins could just as well have been talking about job transition when he speaks of self awareness versus limits and evaluations. “Being aware of your own patterns” could very likely have referred right back to DISC assessments.

Our keynote speaker addressed this very topic of Self Awareness when she spoke to us about the vital role of DISC. And more good news? DISC is  valuable in more ways than our work life. While we’re learning about ourselves and our strengths through DISC, we can take away valuable information for dealing with people with different behavioral styles whether at home or at work. Or that in between time of job change or career transition.

Keynote

She never really thought of herself as a tool or gadget person. Instead, Lauren Kutsko describes herself as a collector of behavior assessment tools.  She’s a certified behavioral analyst who loves helping people gain insights into themselves and others. She finds clarity of self a powerful tool in not only the job search, but in every area of our lives.

As keynote speaker, Lauren shared what makes DISC one of the important tools of self-assessment for finding clarity and getting in touch with our key strengths. Along the way it can help us adapt in many of life’s challenges, including meeting potential employers.

The DISC assessment is a key part of the work she and her husband do in their own business, The Entrepreneur’s Source.

Her strong message today is to pick a career that honors our strength. Many specific turning points in our lives allow us to pivot and chart a course including “partnering up” or going off to college. Career transition is one of those opportunities in life to pivot and find our strength, so she urges us not to miss the opportunity. In recognizing our own strengths, we can begin to more quickly recognize the style of whoever we meet on that career path.

DISC. What do the initials represent and what’s it all about? First of all, DISC is the universal language of observable human behavior. It’s a language of HOW you do what you do. A person’s behavioral style is NOT what makes them good or bad, right or wrong. It’s a neutral language.

DISC assessment seeks to identify your behavioral style–but also to understand and appreciate people who have different styles–and then to develop a process to communicate with the different styles more effectively.

Dominance –Task oriented

Influence — Interaction with people

Steadiness— Interaction with Pace

Compliance — Interaction with Procedures

The DISC assesses our style and we’re all pretty much a mix of the four traits. But one trait usually dominates. If we’re too far “off” our dominant strength, in our work life (and we all can adapt), after awhile it stresses us. And eventually, we’re not very happy.

During the keynote, Lauren took the audience through some examples to see if we could recognize someone’s dominate style. For example, if someone rates high on the Steady trait but with a secondary strength in Influence, that person might find teaching or HR work satisfying because those careers draw on those strengths of steadiness and people skills.  The more you analyze DISC, the more you can know your own strengths.  But the more you analyze  DISC, the more it reveals about personal styles in people we meet, allowing us to adapt, but more importantly, to  understand other styles people possess as we navigate the world.

One of the most interesting things in the presentation today, to me, was addressing the pace at which someone walks–in identifying their style!

DOMINANCE

  • The D is looking for: RESULTS
  • Quick Observations: Faster paced, task-oriented
  • Communication: Direct
  • Overextension: Impatient
  • Organization: Efficient, not neat
  • Body Language
  • Stance – Forward leaning, hand in pocket
  • Walks – Fast, always going somewhere
  • Gestures—A lot of hand movement when talking, big gestures
  • Communication Clue: Doesn’t want others’ opinions, only facts

INFLUENCE

  • The I is looking for: INTERACTION
  • Quick Observations:: Faster paced, people-oriented
  • Communication: Indirect
  • Overextension: Disorganized
  • Organization: Disorganized. A lot of piles.
  • Body Language
  • Stance – Feet spread, two hands in pockets
  • Walks—Weaves, people focused, may run into things
  • Gestures—A lot of big gestures and facial expressions when talking
  • Communication Clue: Talks with hands

COMPLIANCE

  • The C is looking for: FACTS
  • Quick Observations: Slower paced, task-oriented
  • Communication: Direct
  • Overextension: Critical
  • Organization: Everything in its place. Perfectly organized.
  • Body Language
  • Stance – Arms folded, one hand on chin
  • Walks – Straight line
  • Gestures – Very reserved, little or no gestures
  • Communication Clue: Asks detailed questions

STEADINESS

  • The S is looking for: STABILITY
  • Quick Observations: Slower paced, people-oriented
  • Communication: Indirect
  • Overextension: Possessiveness
  • Organization: Usually some type of system. A little on the sloppy side.
  • Body Language
  • Stance – Leaning back, hand in pocket
  • Walks – Steady, easy pace
  • Gestures – Will gesture with hands
  • Communication Clue: Has a “poker” face

As you become familiar with your own strengths via the DISC assessment, you’ll be able to quickly determine the personality of people you encounter in life and in your career search. Notice how the person is dressed. How are their papers displayed? What’s their stance or posture? Slouched or straight posture?  Does the person seem steady? Are they warm? Do they engage in small talk first or get right to the point?

3-Minute Assessment

  • How do they walk?
  • How are they using their hands when they talk?
  • Are they talking about people or tasks?
  • What emotions do they hint at?
  • How are their emails written?

Paying attention to these clues could potentially help you size up your interviewer in about three minutes, Lauren suggests! So besides helping you focus on your own main strengths, the DISC assessment could likely help you identify other people’s styles. And that could come in handy at work or at home. Or in that important interview.

Hiring Companies

Cox Communications
Mychal Bess, Account Manager

Cox Communications, a broadband communications and entertainment company, commits itself to technology, the community they serve and a diverse workforce that encourages personal development and team building. Cox prides itself on their core values that include dedication to relationships with customers and employees. The company vows to do things right, employ a diverse workforce, remain people-focused, be a leader in the industry, and be dedicated to the community and employees.

In return for their dedication to employees, Cox expects their employees to be team players who make individual contributions, who continue to learn, and to try innovative and new ways of doing business. Cox currently has many open positions including Media Sales Specialist, Sales Associate, Home Technician, Technology Supervisor, Local Sales Manager, Commercial Security Consultant and more.  Go online to create your own job profile and find jobs in your field. To learn more about current openings and to apply, visit their website.

Manpower
Honey Rivers, Recruiting Manager

Manpower, a national and worldwide organization with over 70 years of experience, focuses on industrial and office/clerical positions, with emphasis on youth, women, people with disabilities, veterans, seniors and the long-term unemployed. The company has been named one of the world’s most ethical companies 2012 through 2017.

Some contract staffing companies offer no contract benefits, but Manpower offers medical/dental with eligibility after the first paycheck; short term disability; holidays after working over 1800 hours in the previous 52 weeks; 401K eligibility after first paycheck; shopping discounts; Manpower Recognition Program; and IT, business skills, and personal development training.

Current open positions include customer service agents, document processors, data entry, production/warehouse, packing/kitting/general labor, seasonal shipping/packing and sorting with a major shipping company, and administrative/clerical roles.

To apply visit their website, create an account, and attach your resume. Then after registering, contact their office at 480-824-7976.

State Farm
Greg Gonzales, Recruiter

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company is the parent company of several affiliates and subsidiaries that provide property and life insurance, banking products, and mutual funds.

State Farm’s mission is to help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams. The benefit of its being a mutual company is their primary focus remains its policyholders. Their beautiful local corporate offices are housed near Tempe Town Lake.

Employees are very important to State Farm who offers competitive pay, time off, health and welfare, financial and retirement planning, training and development, and work life and well-being benefits.

Current positions include accounting, financial and banking; administrative support; claims and investigation; customer service; facilities management and administrative services; legal, compliance and risk management; human resources; marketing, design and communications; research and analytics; sales support; technology and user experience; and underwriting and actuarial.

To apply and see the current list of positions, visit their website.

Resources and Closing

Jessica Pierce, Executive Director of Career Connectors, closed the event with the same enthusiasm she opened with, calling attention to the wonderful facility provided by Highlands Church. Highlands continues its Highlands HOPE Initiative, which offers gift cards to attendees who qualify financially and who are in a job hunt or job transition.

The DISC assessment can be taken free of charge for Career Connectors’ attendees. Career Connectors also offers an event recap blog and a career advice blog. Those in attendance can meet one on one with hiring companies, experts in LinkedIn, finances, resume writing, and with a professional photographer to have professional photos taken for LinkedIn.

For information on upcoming events throughout the Valley, see the links on this page or click here to check specific locations, times and agendas.

6/9/16 – Up Yours! Up Your Power, Up Your Performance, Up Your Personal Pitch!

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Career Connectors Up Yours eventWritten by Susan Lamphiear

What do superstars Taylor Swift and Michael Jordan have in common? Well, for starters, they’ve both gone on record as not wanting to be average. And most people would agree they rank as top achievers in their fields. Taylor says, “I’m intimidated by the fear of being average.” And Michael echoes that same refrain — “All I know is that I never wanted to be average.”

After seeing the cover of our guest speaker’s book, Average is an Addiction, I’ve been thinking about the phenomenon and googling the topic of “average.” The experts seem to agree that high achievers have particular attributes besides talent and intelligence that make them excel.

Keynote

Deborah Dubree, our keynote speaker, has a lot to say about being average, in her book,  and in her presentation today. Deborah appears anything but average. But years ago, she started out with low expectations for herself. Armed with a high school diploma, she took a job as a receptionist but after six months was bored to tears.  Urged to apply for an upcoming promotion with the construction division of the company (come over to the dark side, they said), and knowing nothing about accounting, or construction for that matter, Deborah applied, interviewed for a position that appeared to require both, and was hired. The rest, as they say, is history.

Deborah has learned so much over the years about success. She wrote a whole book about being average after she observed  many truly talented and educated people somehow fell just short of success, often when they were teetering on the brink of a breakthrough. She wondered why.

Deborah began her career as a receptionist, but gradually through research on herself, and research on success, came to be known as an expert. She received numerous certifications, educated herself in the science of the brain, and finally pursued her role coaching NFL players and others who wanted to stand out from the crowd.

People fundamentally make three mistakes, Deborah says.

  • They wonder why what they’re doing isn’t enough. But have they stayed focused, identified who they are and taken meaningful action? Have they learned their strengths and tapped into how to reach “the zone,” that often illusive peak performance high?
  • They complain, “But I’m not average.” But everyone has areas where they’re average. It’s just not possible to be average in your chosen field if you’re going to be successful, though.
  • They settle for False focus. For example, in the job search, if you focus only on resume, LinkedIn profile, business attire, professional photo and research, those are comfortable and don’t necessarily lead to that great job. While these areas are important, the bulk of your time is better spent in riskier areas like attending events, making phone calls, engaging in impromptu conversation, doing interviews, and making follow-up calls.

You have to know what you believe, and if your beliefs are justified, and then stay focused.

Lots of people out there are talented, Deborah reminds us. But the thing key that makes the difference is  successful people handle stressful situations well and manage their emotions. They also take meaningful action because they have a plan.

Deborah’s challenge to everyone in attendance: Go out there and do ONE THING that scares you. When you’ve taken risks and succeeded, despite fear, then you’ll wonder, “If I can do this, what else can I do?”

When Deborah first entered her career as a coach, someone suggested she first talk to high school athletes. But she said, “No, I want to work with NFL players.” Sometimes you’ve gotta take a LEAP, she stresses. “Sometimes just a slight pivot” at the right time can take your career higher than you’d ever imagined.

More Tips from Deborah (but only if you want to be a high achiever)

Tame and Train your BEAST

B Beliefs impact our behavior. Make sure you know what your beliefs are, including beliefs about yourself.

E Emotion All decisions are based on emotions. So be able to manage your emotions and therefore mange stress.

A Acute Awareness—This includes being aware of yourself and others.

S Self Identify Who are you?

T Talk and Walk  Body language and verbal language are equally important.

The 7 Cs of Excellence

  1. Choice
  2. Consciousness
  3. Change
  4. Courage
  5. Confidence
  6. Commitment
  7. Consistency

Hiring Companies

International Cruise & Excursions, Inc. (ICE)

Jason Brambier, Corporate Recruiter

International Cruise & Excursions, Inc. (ICE), a global travel and leisure organization, provides cruise and vacation fulfillment services. Headquartered in Scottsdale, the company has been awarded Best Places to Work 2013 and 2014 by The Phoenix  Business Journal and the Spirit of Enterprise Innovator Award by the ASU W.P. Carey School of Business.  The culture there is casual and offers numerous perks including onsite wellness clinic, onsite massage therapists, free onsite Fitness Center and so much more. Employing both inbound and outbound sales for all vacation travel, other non-sales positions currently open include software engineers, member marketing, graphic designer, help desk analyst, and creative director. For a complete list of positions and to apply, visit their website.

TEKsystems

Nick Bielinski, Technical Recruiter

TEKsystems specializes in staffing for technical positions but they can point non-tech job seekers in the right direction since they are part of the family of Allegis, the largest private talent firm in the world. TEKsystems offers the largest global network of credentialed IT professionals. Recruiters in the company, dedicated to specific skills sets, also actively engage with the community so they share market knowledge with job seekers including who is hiring and who’s experiencing hiring freezes. Positions available through the company include project managers, business analysts, network engineers, QA engineers and more. For more information on their staffing services or to submit your resume, visit their website.

Charles Schwab

Curtis Crawford, Sr.Talent Adviser

Charles Schwab believes in the power of investing for everyone.  The company services investors, advisors and employers. Headquartered in San Francisco, Schwab employs 15,400 full-time employees and has received 15 awards in 2015 for their employee-friendly workplace. Opportunities in Phoenix include the broker training program, relationship specialist, and estate services professional operations. The culture of the company is strength-based and offers everyday wellness, employee resource groups and employee development programs. To apply, visit their website, submit your resume, and answer qualifying questions. After those steps, a recruiter will review your resume and qualifying questions and contact you if there’s a strong match.

Resources

New Horizons Learning Center

Zack Hiscock, VP Learning & Development

New Horizons Learning Center is one of several State-of-the-Art Training Facilities which teams with Career Connectors to offer training to adults upgrading their skills or adults seeking to gain competitive skills in their job search. Located in Phoenix near the airport, the school offers three modalities for training including traditional, instructor-led classroom training, online LIVE learning, and online ANYTIME learning. They offer a six-month free retake policy on all classes and boast four brand new classrooms and a virtual lab. Classes include information technology, office management, healthcare records, PMP, and Six Sigma, to name a few. After classes are completed, the school also helps students find a job. For more information on classes or funding, visit their website.

Closing

Jessica Pierce, Executive Director for Career Connectors, thanked attendees, hiring companies, volunteers, and host for the event, Highlands Church.  She announced that after the break, informal breakout sessions would give participants an opportunity to meet hiring managers, receive free professional head shot photos, and talk to experts about resume writing and LinkedIn.

The next Career Connectors event will be held in two weeks due to the calendar this time.

  • The very next event will be held Tuesday, June 28, 2016, at 9:00 AM in Gilbert.
  • The next Phoenix event is scheduled for Wednesday, July 6, 201, at 9:00 AM.
  • The very next Scottsdale event will be held Thursday, July 14, 2016, at 9:00 AM and will feature keynote speaker Kevin Dumcum on the topic “LinkedIn’s Power of Connection.”

For detailed information or to register for any or all events, click here.

 

 

4/14/16 – Identifying the Best Career for You

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By Susan Lamphiear

Can’t decide what  you want and you’re a job seeker? You’re not alone, the experts say.  But this is a huge mistake when it comes to the job search and pretty much anything we do in life. How will you know when you arrive if you don’t know where you’re going? How many times have we heard that old adage? That’s because it’s so true, as our keynote speaker stressed today. Start by asking yourself what you want, what strengths match, and what you’re passionate about as you set out to find the work you love — your Dream Job.

Keynote

Looking back, from the time she was a young child in middle school, Keynote Speaker Lisa Phalen, certified coach and HR consultant,  recognizes  she was very good at helping people even then. Kids would call to her from lunch or ask to speak to her privately about their lives and their problems. It was a common thread. In high school, friends came to her continuously, asking for help—she would listen, ask questions and then her friends found solutions—she was coaching before she knew what it was.

Her parents moved around a lot, including Lisa’s senior year in high school. In preparation to attend college, she was asked by Arizona State University (ASU), since they’d moved to Arizona by then, what her major was, and when she didn’t know,  they asked her,” What attracts you?”  And for some unknown reason she blurted out, “HR.” While she liked all segments of HR, she always loved the coaching part. It was part of that lifelong feeling that people came to her for help. And she liked it.

Even though she waited to pursue her dream of a Ph.D. in Organizational Psychology, she has used her core strength of helping people throughout her career.These days she is finally pursuing her degree in Oranizational Psychology.

Is it any wonder, then, that she wanted to encourage us to refine our job search to take advantage of what we love doing, not just what we’re good at. So many times we default into a career because we’re told we excel in an area. Lisa gives us permission and encouragement to realize our strengths but to make sure to factor in what we’re passionate about.

The focus of her presentation today included the steps to identify and find the best job for you — that Dream Job.

Finding Your DREAM Job

Determine what your dream job really is

Research – job sites and job descriptions

Expertise —  build your expertise in your field of interest

Associations –join professional organizations

Mark your target (company)

Identifying a Career Match

  • Assessments
  • Know your bottom line
  • Funnel
  • Follow your heart
  • Assessment

Assessments

  • Career inventories – Strong Career Inventory, O-net Interest Profiler
  • Temperament Assessments – MBTI, DISC, True Colors, Kiersey*, Big Five Personality*, NERIS Explorer*
  • Strengths Assessments – Vaues Inventory*, Strengthsfinder, StandOut
  • Additional Assessments – TKI, Emotional Intelligence*, VARK Learning Style*

The Career Match Formula

  • Insights from assessments – What are your strengths?
  • Bottom line – Consider things like salary, benefits, travel, and culture.
  • Marketplace – What’s actually available in your area?

Know your Bottom Line

  • Consider things like salary, benefits, career development opportunities, flexibility, culture, work tools and resources.
  • Consider what you don’t want such as travel requirements, weekend or on call work, or excessive commutes

    The Career Match Funnel

  • No conditions
  • Qualifications
  • Work-life-balance
  • Location
  • Uniqueness

After you go through this process, step back and take stock and identify the best career for you which ideally will take into account your strengths and passions. Follow your heart.

Hiring Companies

SiteLock

Kathleen Klein, Corporate Recruiter

SiteLock, a website security company founded in 2008, and privately held by Unitedweb, has grown quickly  from 50 employees in 2014 to 200 employees today. A 24/7 business with international customers, it’s the number one provider of website security solutions; they protect about 10 million customers globally. Their mission? To protect every site on the Internet. Headquartered in Scottsdale, they have offices in Boston, MA and Jacksonville, FL. Products include malware detection, malware alert and removal tool, and credit card protection tools and more. Awards include fastest growing technology company in Arizona by the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 List and “Best Places to Work” by The Phoenix Business Journal. Company benefits include full medical, dental and vision, 15 days of PTO and 7 paid Holidays, company-paid life insurance, company-paid short and long term disability coverage, and free food—catered lunches every Friday. To gather more information or to apply, visit their website for opportunities including inside sales rep, technical support agent, and website security.

Adecco USA

Michelle Grinberg, Regional Account Director

Adecco USA, largest staffing company in the world, has presence in 60 countries and a 50-year history. Formerly clerical, Adecco USA now handles clerical and so much more including customer service, creative and marketing professionals, accounting and finance, light industrial, engineering and technology, IT, and medical and science. The company staffs for Fortune 500s along with medium and small local business clients and include temporary, temporary-to-hire, direct placement, master vendor, and more. Since 2005, Adecco has placed over 5,400 engineering and IT professionals with 264 companies in the Phoenix market. Each potential employee is assigned a recruiter. Other benefits include medical, 401K, short-term and long-term disability, and free online skills training. Training classes include management, leadership and IT. Currently located in Mesa, they are merging with Modis and will also have a location in Scottsdale or the Biltmore area. To apply, visit their website.

Revana/Teletech

Mary Ann Lopez, Recruiter

Revana/Teletech, a recognized leader, is a business process and sourcing company, employing over 1500 in their Tempe and Phoenix locations.  Some of their clients include  AT&T, Facebook, FedEx, Google, IBM, Oracle, Toshiba and Xerox. They need Inbound and Outbound Sales Associates, Sales Managers, Digital Account Executives (Google), Sr. Specialist,  Quality Assurance, Marketing-Statistician, and Data Analyst. The company offers opportunities to get a foot in the door and develop your career. They’ve won awards and recognition including the 2009 Stevie Award for Sales and Customer Service. Some of the benefits of working for the company include paid training, competitive base salary with commissions, career advancement, flexible work schedules medical and dental benefits after 30 days and more. The environment is casual. To apply, visit their website or stop by–in person– Mon – Fri between 9-3 p.m. and complete the entire employment process.

Resources

Dynamic Worldwide Training Consultants

Rodger Brubacher, Director of Continuing Education

Dynamic Worldwide Training Consultants offers certification programs for career and professional development including Project Management, Six Sigma, Medical Front Office Administrative Assistant & Billing/Coding Specialist, Microsoft Office Specialist, and Digital Marketing with Social Media. Also available are Cybersecurity Programs and Certifications. For the 12th straight year the school has received the Juniper Platinum Education Partner of the Year in the Americas. Classes are kept small at a ratio of six students to one instructor. The school has onsite state of the art facilities, with over 95% of their students passing the certification exams on the first sitting. Funding is available, so feel free to contact the school or go to their website for more information or to enroll.

Closing

Sandi Ashton, Vice President of the Board of Directors for Career Connectors, closed the formal part of the meeting before adjourning to breakout sessions. She reminded everyone in attendance at Career Connectors they are eligible to take– for free– the DISC assessment. During the breakouts attendees may obtain free professional head shots, coaching in LinkedIn, resume preparation guidance, and conversations with hiring companies. She thanked volunteers for their service and Highlands Church for providing the beautiful facility.

Next event for Career Connectors will be held in Gilbert on Tuesday, April 26, 2016, at 9 AM. How to Work a Job Fair will be presented by keynote speaker Andy Ridley.

The Phoenix event will be held Wednesday, May 4, 2016, 9 AM and features the topic Get Hired by the Best—Advancing your Career with a Best Company featuring Jessica Pierce, Career Connectors Executive Director and Denise Gredler, President and Founder of BestCompaniesAZ.  This event will a panel feature discussion with 8 hiring companies: Charles Schwab, USAA, DISH, Synchrony Financial, Freedom Financial Network, Dignity Health, Arizona Federal  Credit Union and Vanguard.

Then the next Scottsdale event will be Thursday, May 12, 2016, at 9 AM in Scottsdale featuring keynote speaker Kirk Wilkinson speaking on the topic The Optimist’s Advantage.

For more details including exact locations, click here.

Parting Thoughts

Towards further inspiration, check out Scott Dinsmore’s TED talk–How to find the work you love. Just in case you missed the first mention. Yes. It’s that inspiring.

“There is no greater gift you can give or receive than to honor your calling. It’s why you were born. And how you beome most truly alive.”

~ Oprah Winfrey

12/10/15 – Start Strong, Finish Stronger: Your Best Self in Your Next Chapter

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Written by Susan Lamphiear

Keynote

Stephanie Clerge, @StrengthsPro

Remember that scene from the movie Kindergarten Cop when Arnold Schwarzenegger asks the children to tell what their dads do for a living? That flashed into my mind when today’s keynote speaker described her four-year-old son’s public remarks.

Proud of her own and her husband’s careers and educational backgrounds, the speaker described her own shock when her son announced his aspirations at his preschool graduation. When asked, “What do you want to do when you grow up?” he said, “I want to kill vampires and zombies!”

Upon further reflection, after the shock wore off, our keynote speaker decided it actually might not be such a bad idea to metaphorically kill vampires and zombies like the zombies, the walking dead, in the work place, the information-hoarding, energy-sucking backstabbers.

Maybe those energy-draining employees referenced in her opening story  never really got in touch with their career passions by becoming aware of their strengths.  Stephanie Clergè, a certified career coach, referenced Gallup poll results suggesting what makes people great.

You’re six times more likely to be successful if you know your strengths. Respondents were also three times as likely to say they have a high quality of life if they focused on their strengths. It appears knowledge of your strengths makes you happier and reduces stress.

To demonstrate our strengths, Stephanie asked everyone to sign their names. Then she asked attendees to sign with their opposite hand and asked for feedback on how that felt. “Awkward, challenging, frustrating” were some of the responses.

“We work on our weaknesses so much of the time—maybe we never get good at it.” What if, instead, everyone spent more time working on their strengths?

But how do you know what your strengths are? Stephanie tells us it’s those things which bring us energy. Your strengths are the part of you that make you unique and special. It’s basically your “personality muscles” she says. The Gallup poll suggests that your talents are reflected not  just in your outwardly visible behaviors but also in how you think and feel.

Talents are the basis for strengths but she goes a step further. Some people may have a strength in a particular area but that talent doesn’t necessarily bring them joy or energy. Energy is the key.

The DISC assessment, free to Career Connectors’ attendees, is one way to discover your strengths. Other assessments are out there, too. To find your strengths consider Ease, Energy and Excellence. Your strengths are areas where you excel but also which you do with ease and they produce energy, not drain your energy.

HIGHLIGHTS OF STEPHANIE’S ADVICE

Know Yourself

Know your strengths

  • via DISC* and other assessments
  • Ease, energy, Excellence indicators

Plan Your Work

Define Your Strong Career

  • The 4th E: Experience — Ask yourself, “In the past, what did I LOVE?” When did I love the job/task, the team, the manager, the culture, the industry, the learning or other things like commute, travel, benefits?
  • Think Out of the Box — Look for your strengths in other parts of your life including internships, volunteer activities, side projects/businesses, clubs/organizations, and hobbies.
  • Strengths in Action: Homework . . . Create One Strength Statement. Pick something that energizes you. Create a sentence with key elements of your talent contribution that you use to complete that task. Example: My best contribution is a quality mindset. I can spot areas to improve quality and provide ideas to make processes or products move from good to excellent.

Develop Your Tools

  • Resume: It should be easy to read and it should be clear where you should be working next.
  • LinkedIn Profile: Use a clear, concise headline (not cheesy or needy), in the summary, show a bit of your personality, list a contact email and answer InMail promptly.
  • Questions:  Always have questions to ask in the interview. She’s found in her experience many job candidates simply do not ask questions. Ask questions like, “What would the first 90 days on this job look like?”
  • Stories: If you have a gap in between jobs, recruiters want to know why. Have your remarks planned so this does not catch you off guard. Also, be prepared to articulate your greatest accomplishments on the job. You’re very likely to be asked this question: “Tell me about a time when…” Stephanie suggests having three solid stories of your accomplishments which should ideally be recent (can be older if you are changing careers), should be work related, and should address your leadership and technology skills. In a strength statement, tie your strength to a goal. For example, if you excel in creative use of graphics, explain the creative graphics help influence customers.

Work Your Plan: Include daily steps. For example: review industry websites for job postings, follow up with a former boss for a recommendation, attend one event per week, apply to X number of jobs a week, and call my accountability partner.

The Solution IS SMART– It should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timely. Remember these key words:  Impact, Information, Inspiration, Strengths, Strategies, Support.

Hiring Companies

Nautilus Insurance Group
Kathleen Sandow, Senior HR Specialist

Nautilus Insurance Group provides commercial insurance (not personal insurance), specializing in excess and surplus lines of commercial property and casualty insurance coverage. Things they insure include shopping centers, exercise and health clubs, llama caddies, sea turtle watchers and doves released at weddings! Affiliated with W.R. Berkley Corporation, which is huge, Nautilus has the perks of a huge company and the autonomy of a small company. Located in Scottsdale Airpark, they employ 260 people, mostly in this location. The dress ranges from formal to summer casual.

Perks include a fitness center, covered parking, 401K, and paid vacations. The company is involved in community support including the Phoenix Rescue Mission. Current openings include Senior Claims Examiner, Data Analyst, Instructional Designer, Computer Support Specialist/Help Desk, and Senior Underwriter.  For a complete list or to apply, visit their website.

The Hartford
Harriet Darkwa, Talent Acquisition Consultant

The Hartford provides insurance to people who are usually in crisis mode because their home was flooded or their car was wrecked.  It’s a professional company who is looking to employ people who will be working with people who may not be covered and supporting customers going through life changes.  Over 200 years old, the company prides itself on both stability and innovation.

Other benefits of working for The Hartford include tremendous promotional opportunities, ongoing training and development, and pay-for-performance culture. The company offers tuition reimbursement, health insurance starting day one, and 401K.  Named “World’s Most Ethical Companies” for a seventh time by the Ethisphere Institute, it’s also been named one of the top 100 companies for remote work. Positions available include Associate Claim Representatives.  To learn more or apply, go to their website.

G/O Digital
Sean Beaudette, Sales Recruiter

G/O Digital helps businesses find their success through localized digital marketing. Founded in 2009, it’s a division of TEGNA Digital, employing over 400 people in downtown Phoenix. The culture is described as fun, diverse, and collaborative. The atmosphere is casual and  includes free snacks, ping pong, theme days and quarterly all-company events.

With a start-up feel, your voice is heard.  Inside sales (digital marketing consultants) currently shows the strongest growth, but openings also include sales development, account management, project management, PPC/Operations, Social Media, Marketing, and Finance. For more information, see them on social media or their website. To apply, visit them on their website.

Education Management Corporation (EDMC)
Mark Pierce, Talent Acquisition Manager

Education Management Corporation (EDMC), one of the largest and most diverse providers of proprietary post-secondary education in the United States, includes The Art Institutes, Argosy University, Brown Mackie College, South University, and Western State College of Law. A huge benefit to employees is free tuition for self and family at any of the schools. EDMC also prides itself on internal growth and development (96% of Admission Management team promoted from within and in five years the company has grown from 100 to over 3,000). Also the company offers 401K and 401K Roth participation, Health Benefits and more.

Dedicated to good works, the company involves itself in multiple projects such as Breast Cancer Awareness and Race for the Cure, Valley Big Brothers/Big Sisters, and Adopt-a-Family.  Positions available include Admissions Representatives, Academic Counselor, and Admissions Manager. For more information or to apply, go to their website.

Resources

New Horizons
Zack Hiscock, VP of Training

New Horizons is a school that provides education for the workplace including computer training. Integrated learning solutions allow students to learn via several methods such as traditional, instructor-led; online LIVE learning; or online ANYTIME learning. The school also offers hands-on labs, reference materials, practice exams, learning guides, courseware, and exam preparation.

A state-of-the art training facility, programs there include Information Technology such as CompTIA Security, Linux +, MSCA Windows, and Office Management and/or Healthcare Records Management Programs like Pharmacy Technician or Microsoft office specialist. For more information or to enroll, check their website.

Closing

Jessica Pierce, Executive Director of Career Connectors, reminded everyone of the breakout sessions that follow the formal meeting. During those sessions, attendees have the opportunity to speak directly to hiring managers, obtain free professional head shots, and confer with experts in resume building and creating and managing LinkedIn profiles.

Jessica thanked volunteers and the monthly host for the event, Highlands Church, and invited everyone who qualifies to fill out the form for Highlands Hope Initiative. Through this program, the church presents gift cards based on income to job seekers and those in job transition. Some individuals may qualify for additional assistance provided by the church and are urged to apply.

Upcoming events include Wednesday, January 6, 2016, at 9:00 AM in Phoenix, featuring Michael Seaver, Developing and Living Your Personal Brand.

The next Scottsdale event will be Thursday, January 14, 2016, 9:00 AM. Topic for the event’s keynote address will be presented by Paula Shoup, Use Your internal GPS to Stay Positive & Productive in Difficult Times.

The next Gilbert event, Tuesday, January 26, 2016, 9:00 AM features Abby Kohut presenting Success for the Seasoned Search …The Benefit of Being Overqualified.

Click here for more details about locations and registration.

11/12/15 – The Power of You

by

Written by Kevin Spear, MBA: @kevinhspear

Jessica Pierce (@JessicaPierceAZ) opened our session with an encouragement to find five connections while at Career Connectors. After all, this is all about connecting with people!

Jessica noted people stop looking for jobs during the holidays. Don’t stop! Employers are not taking the holidays off. It may be a good time to search while other job seekers are taking a break.

Keynote

Gloria Petersen, CPP (Certified Protocol Professional)

The Power of You

Gloria is founder of Global Protocol, Inc. She has appeared on numerous television shows and served as etiquette judge on The Learning Channel. Gloria has a series of books entitled, The Art of Professional Connections.

Gloria began with an encouragement to make it about us and project a commanding first impression. She brought up a participant to tell a little about himself. He was dressed sharply, with a suit and tie. He also had a good elevator speech.

Gloria encouraged us to go back when you were a child and write down what you were really good at, that gave you joy, that was your escape. That is key to where you should be today.

The Inside

When you were in school, what course of study were you really good at? What class did you really struggle at? These are the keys to your success. You were born with a gift of knowledge.

You are on the wrong track if you go after something just for money, for prestige, or just to get a job. Don’t make yourself something you were never meant to be!

When you look at a job you’re applying, peel the layers and see if the role has what you really want, what you are really good at.

Opportunity Not Happening?

You need rejections to find out what you’re made of. Does anyone want to hear that? Not as much as we need to hear it!
Determination is what it takes to beat the odds.  When Gloria went through a trial, she had to persevere to make it through the other side. That is the power of each one of us.

Reassess your image. You have to help people see what is on the inside of you with what message you are sending on the outside: perceptions

Make challenges work for you, not against you!

How can you stay determined?

  • Acquire: the skills
  • Utilize: your newly acquired skills
  • Learn: strategies to get beyond any uncertainties

People make perceptions on what they think they see: Perception

Don’t let your knowledge die with you. Write down your knowledge and experiences.

The Strategy Behind a Tie

When you have the perfectly tied knot, people tend to focus with what you are saying. For women, a scarf can give a similar effect. And remember: Posture sells confidence!

Seven Steps to Impressive Greetings and Confident Interaction

  1. Check your appearance and stance
    • You should dress for an interview more formally than the job you are applying.
    • Wear your confidence like a power jacket. In fact, wear a power jacket, whether you are male or female, a business jacket makes you look more powerful and confident.
  2. Exchange names
    • Greet to acknowledge someone’s presence
    • A person’s eyes and smile set the tone of an interaction
    • You never know who you are greeting
    • You are at an advantage when you actively meet and introduce people to others
  3. Repeat names accurately
    • Include the last name along with the first
    • Yes, it’s hard to remember names, but so crucial. After all, we’re scared of last names
    • Beware of international names and respect name preferences
    • Repeat the name at least three times
  4. Deliver a confident handshake
    • Don’t get rushed!
  5. Make a courtesy comment
    • Ask about their position or title
    • Discover a commonality
  6. Ask for the business card
    • Ask for theirs before you offer yours
    • If you don’t have a business card, get at least a name card for yourself
    • Include your LinkedIn profile
  7. Take your leave and follow-up

These seven steps will help anyone exude confidence in an interview.

Hiring Companies:

International Cruise & Excursions, Inc.,
Jason Brambier, Corporate Recruiter
@ICEJobs

Jason said that ICE has a similar model as Expedia, except for cruises. They are located in Scottsdale. Some of their benefits include a gym, nail salon, and massage therapist. They sent 200 employees to travel on one of the new Princess Cruise ships. Employees can take cruises for up to 50% off retail price.

They also do many charity events such as Christel House and Phoenix Animal Care Coalition.  They have a large sales center. They assist inbound callers with their travel plans. Average inbound sales rep makes $50,000 a year. Outbound callers can make six figures.  Jason explained you are selling fun and vacations, not boring necessities!

Besides sales roles, they are looking for:

  • Director of Purchasing
  • Procurement
  • Senior Accounting Clerk
  • Accounts payable
  • Administrator coordinator
  • Software developers
  • Executive Director of Talent Management
Workway
April Miller, Market Director
Gina Gumaskas
Recruiting Manager
@Workway

Workway performs staffing and recruiting, specializing in finance and administration.  They focus in the banking and credit union industries.

Why work with Workway?

  • They are expert in marketing your specialized skills
  • You won’t pay a fee
  • They guide employees and follow up during your job search and hiring process
  • It is a candidate-focused model
  • They offer tutorials and training within and outside the company

Current opportunities:

  • Underwriters
  • Tellers
  • Loan processors
  • Client Care Specialist
  • Director of Marketing
  • Controller within the Hospitality industry
  • Branch Manager
  • HR positions

You can join their network without an intensive application process. The application is all online at www.workway.com.

State Farm,
DeAnne Prigmore, Recruiter
@StateFarm

DeAnne began at an entry-level position with State Farm.  State Farm’s mission is to help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams.  They have very competitive benefits including 401K and pension, work life, and wellness.

They have more than agency positions in Phoenix:

  • Claims
  • Customer Care Center
  • Systems/IT LinkedIn contact: Rich Ortiz, Recruiter
  • Creative Services: Graphic Designer

You can apply at http://www.statefarm.com/careers.

The Marina Heights campus is under construction but one building is occupied. It will have five buildings and 2 million square feet. It will hold 5,500 employees. It will be open to the public and will have shops in the courtyard as well as wifi.

Charles Schwab,
Shannon Grimes, Talent Attraction Manager

Charles Schwab’s mission was to bring Wall Street to Main Street. Today, they’re still true to the original values, yet have expanded.  They like to see the world through clients’ eyes.

They serve:

  • Investors (9.5 million)
  • Advisors (7,000)
  • Employers (1.5 million workers served)

Schwab has their largest employee base in the Phoenix Valley. They were the recipient of 18 awards in 2014 for employee-friendly workplaces. They close the gap between the power of investing and their clients’ ability to experience it.

Careers:

  • Broker Training Program (AFSP)
  • Estate Services Professional
  • Senior Specialist, Operational Risk

In Phoenix, they hire for almost every area of the company.

They also have:

  • Technology Roles
  • Operations
  • HR
  • Public Relations

Values:

  • Meritocracy: Schwab is very open to rewarding those who do a great job
  • Financial Fitness: Access to programs that help you become financially fit
  • Sabbatical: After four years of service

You can apply at http://tiny.cc/careerconnectors.

Resources

Dynamic Worldwide Training Consultants
Rodger Brubacher,
Director of Continuing Education @DWWTC

DWWTC is a certification training school preparing students for the workforce.

  • Professional Development
  • Project Management
  • Six Sigma
  • Medical Front Office Administrative
  • Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS)
  • Digital Marketing & Social Marketing Strategist
  • Information Technology
  • Cyber Security

They have prime partnerships through various institutes.

They have instructor lead programs as well as hybrid online training and virtual classroom platform.

  • Low student to instructor ratio (typically 6:1)
  • Post graduate assistance
  • Online certification test prep materials
  • 95% of students pass certification exams on the first sitting
  • They use Pinterest to supplement materials

There are funds through Workforce Development, Veterans and Trade Adjustment Act.

Closing

Jessica Pierce closed the session with these announcements:

Our next events will be:

New sponsor: New Horizons Learning Center

Ted Robison has the LinkedIn Workshop on Wednesday, November 18th, 1–5PM at the City of Phoenix Business Services Center. The event is full, but there is a wait list.