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10/10/19 – Finding and Landing a New Career FAST

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Written by: Connie Huber PHR SHRM-CP

As job seekers we want to know, “when will I find a job”? Wouldn’t it be great to look at a crystal ball and find out we will find a job two weeks from today? Unfortunately, we cannot rely on a crystal ball, psychic or tarot cards. The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates the data for August 2019 indicates the average duration of unemployment was 22.1 weeks; 20.6% of the unemployed were out of work for 27 weeks or longer. Randstad commissioned a survey of 2000 Americans in 2018 and found that it took respondents an average of five months to find a job. Glassdoor reports an average time frame, 23.8 days, from interview to job offer. As a reminder, there are many variables that impact the length of time it takes to find work. Estimates do not really apply when applied to any one individual and his/her situation.

Keynote: Dave Sherman, Trainer, Speaker and Best-Selling Author

All of us would love to know how to make the job search process move faster and resolve any uncertainty about future employment. Dave’s enthusiasm and passion offered us some ways to secure the perfect job faster.

TIP #1: EMBRACE YOUR DECISION
While your mind may be racing on things you should be doing in your job search, it is best to embrace your decision. You may be considering a job in IT but you really want to get into AI development. Dave encouraged us to focus on a single decision, not several. Doing so scatters your energies.
Be sure to tell as many folks as possible that you are looking for a job! Avoid … indecision, explanations, validation and negativity. Negative people will darken you and your efforts. Be sure to avoid them at all costs.

TIP #2: PERUSE THE JOB BOARD
There are many job boards available. Broaden your search by visiting those sites that have the position you are attempting to secure. Dave reminded us that you need to identify those positions you want and don’t want. Dave is a fan of LinkedIn and ZipRecruiter. Apply to those jobs that are interesting, challenging, rewarding and fun.

TIP #3: START MEETING MORE PEOPLE
As Dave noted previously, the more people who know you are looking for a job the closer you are in finding the next career opportunity.
Places to go to meet other professionals are chambers, associations, business groups, networking groups, and career transition groups. Avoid telling people you are looking for a job! Instead tell them you are in career transition.
Suggestions for attending networking events are showing up early, bringing business cards and asking for help.

TIP #4: WHEN ATTENDING EVENTS, LET GO OF THE OUTCOME!
Focus your efforts on finding connections. Do not expect to find a job.
When meeting new connections, you need to establish commonality and likeability.
In establishing likeability, strive to be interested not interesting. People will connect with someone who offers a smile; has a good personality and sense of humor. Studies have shown that 60% see a person’s smile when first meeting someone new. Common threads for commonality are hometown, hobbies, school and favorites.

TIP #5: FOUR MOST IMPORTANT WORDS
WHO DO YOU KNOW? Unfortunately, you are not capable to find a job relying on your own resources. A successful professional knows that the larger your network is the closer you are to finding your next opportunity.

As I gaze into my crystal ball, it clearly says……. “The perfect job is in your immediate future”!

HIRING COMPANIES

LIVEOPS
SHEREE BUTTERFIELD, CORPORATE RECRUITER

Liveops is a leader in Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) of virtual contact center solutions that maximizes every sale, support, and social customer interaction to ultimately drive brand loyalty. Liveops has led the industry in flex agent service for more than 19 years. The company supports a wide range of industries including healthcare and human services, insurance, retail, telecom, finance, direct response, roadside assistance and travel & hospitality. LiveOps culture, benefits, and work rewards are positive and diverse.
A sampling of current positions are facilitators, instructional designers; client results directors & managers, agent results advocates; BI analysts, BA analysts, and QA analyst; workforce planning; finance; human resources; and sales & marketing. If interested, go to website.

VIXXO
HEATHER KITSKO, TALENT ACQUISITION MANAGER

Vixxo is a technology driven asset management and facilities maintenance. The company services over 1.1 million revenue generating assets in the restaurant, retail, convenience store and grocery industries with a network of 150,000 service provider partners. Vixxo serves brands such as Starbucks, Target and 7-Eleven.
Open positions include equipment technician, service coordinator, systems analyst, technical solution architect. For more details visit Vixxo website.

ACCOLADE
JAMIE CANFIELD, LEAD HEALTH ASSISTANT/LEARNING SPECIALIST

Accolade is a personalized health and benefits solutions that dramatically improves the experience, outcomes and cost of healthcare for employers, health plans and their members. At the heart of Accolade is a team of health assistants, registered nurses, and clinical experts with the right blend of educational, professional and life experience to provide unique and highly personalized services. Accolade’s cultural cornerstones are empathy, teamwork, innovation and commitment.
Accolade has offices around the globe and has 1,000+ employees. The company serves nearly 1.5 million members from employer and health plan customers to supporting companies with large employee populations. Featured positions are health assistant (clinical navigator) and clinical health assistant (registered nurse). Additional information can be found at www.accolade.com/careers.

RESOURCES

GREATER PHOENIX CHAMBER FOUNDATION
BRITTANY HOLMES, FINANCIAL SERVICES, WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Phoenix has the 6th largest finance and insurance cluster in the US. Business and finance jobs are projected to grow 16.8% over the next 10 years. Roles within financial services are high growth, high-wage, and in high demand.
In response to the need, Maricopa Corporate College is offering financial industry training. Students prepare to take the (SIE) Exam. They also get resume and interview help. The next class is October 21, 2019 at Rio Salado Northern. Funding is available through Arizona at Work and Arizona Career Pathways. For additional details, contact Brittany Holmes.

CLOSING

Jessica Pierce, CEO/Founder, Career Connectors, closed the meeting by thanking Highlands Church & the volunteers. The next Career Connectors meeting will be in Gilbert on Tuesday, October 22, 2019 & features Jessica Pierce, as speaker for the topic “The Networking Brief: Increase Your Influence.” For additional information on this event & future events, please visit the Event Schedule.

10/11/18 – Telling Your Story

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Written by: Connie Huber PHR SHRM-CP

Andrew Stanton, a filmmaker who co-wrote the “Toy Story” movies, says, “A great story comes from using what you know, capturing a truth from experiencing it and from expressing your values you feel deeply”. He suggests you allow the listener to make their own deduction about you from the story. That is, come out and say you’re collaborative, adaptable, or anything – you tell a story that convinces your listener you possess these traits. Stanton says a well-told tale grips, excites and engrosses.

Keynote

“Telling Your Story”– Cary Pfeffer

Even with the low unemployment rate, the job market is still a difficult one for job seekers. Cary shared with us how to make yourself stand out from fellow job seekers and how to leave a lasting impression with the interviewer. Cary reminded us it takes just a few moments to reveal a great deal about ourselves and an organization.

TELLING YOUR STORY EFFECTIVELY ONE-ON-ONE
Points to be effective include…..

  • What you know about the audience
  • Knowing your comfort zone
  • Being a good editor

SAY IT IN A SENTENCE
When you are asked to “tell us about yourself”, you need to….

  • Avoid mission “statement-itis” & avoid buzz words
  • Make sure there is a “people connection” to quickly gain the listener’s attention
  • Your message needs to be quickly understood and remembered

TELLING YOUR STORY EFFECTIVELY IN WRITING
Research has found that “most written communication is interpreted more negatively” than it is intended. Just like verbally sharing your story, you also need to know the audience and know your comfort zone; and be a good editor to share your story in writing.

KEY POINTS FOR SUCCESS

  • Consider how you want to start your message
  • Spend time on the subject line and greeting
  • Demonstrate your knowledge and need right away
  • Finish when possible in the email window
  • If needed include support material
  • Keep your introductory/cover letter to one page; reference a connection in your cover letter
  • Spend time on your story and make it unique
  • Make it meaningful and about the employer
  • Keep it brief!

FINAL NOTE
Consider the words you are using and whether they work for your story and if they connect with the employer.

TELLING YOUR STORY BEFORE AN AUDIENCE

  • Focus on what you are going to say as you begin your story; the goal is to capture the audience’s attention.
  • Less is more; get to your story early.
  • Consider how the audience hears you; remember your word choice, voice tone and body language.
  • Make the end of your message a memorable one; avoid making statements like “Guess this is the end!”
  • Think about how you will handle Q&A; allow the audience to think about the presentation before seeking questions.
  • Give thought to how you want to end the Q&A.

FINAL POINTS
The most overlooked skill in communication is listening.  Smile!

“Storytelling is about connecting with other people and helping people to see what you see”. – Michael Margolis

HIRING COMPANIES

Vixxo
Heather Kitsko, Talent Acquisition Manager

Vixxo is a technology driven asset and facilities management company that services clients such as Starbucks, Target and Michaels. There are 700 associates across the US and Canada. Vixxo has been an INC 500 Fastest Growing Private Company for 8 years straight. The company’s culture is a team of doers that create innovative solutions for their customers in a fast-paced environment. They believe that their employee diversity is their strength. Some open positions include: Data Architect; Decision Support Analyst; Director, Data Governance; Director, Reporting Strategy; HR Coordinator; Senior Accountant; Service Coordinator; Sr. Director, Supply Management; Talent Acquisition Coordinator; VP Project Management Officer. For more information, go to www.vixxo.com/careers.

Headfarmer
Jessica Corral, Partner

Headfarmer’s mission is “to serve our community and its families by helping professionals connect and grow”. There are several things that set Headfarmer apart from its competition, including their proactive approach to cultivate an exclusive network, build meaningful relationships, an extensive due diligence process and purpose driven approaches that will enhance lives and enrich organizations. The organization handles both direct hire and temporary solutions in the Accounting & Finance and Technology arenas. A sampling of Accounting & Finance opportunities include clerical & entry level accounting, staff/senior accountant/tax, Accounting Manager/Assistant Controller, Controller/ Director/C-level, audit, and corporate financial planning & analysis. Technology possibilities are Help Desk Support Technician, Architects & Developers, Business Intelligence, DevOps Engineers, IT Manager/Director/C-level, and Cyber Security. Go to their website for a complete listing.

Farmers
Surrie Atkins, Recruiter

Farmers, one of the largest and most respected insurance brands in the USA. It was founded in 1928 in Los Angeles. Farmers is a leading insurer of small and medium-sized businesses and operates a large Life-insurance company as well as a rapidly growing financial services company (Farmers Financial Solutions). Certified as a Great Place to work in 2017, the company fosters a casual work environment and community outreach programs. Open positions include Inbound Sales and Customer Service. For current job opportunities and to apply, visit their website.

RESOURCES

Goodwill of Central & Northern AZ
Tonia Oliver, Quality Assurance Analyst

Goodwill’s mission is “through the goodwill of others, Goodwill creates the pathway to a better future for all by helping those who desire self-sufficiency”. Goodwill’s long-term goal is to eliminate unemployment. The organization offers a number of Career Centers in the area. Onsite offerings include Career Advisors, employment support, mock-interviews/resume assistance, Goodwill Management System and numerous resources, and hiring events for hundreds of local hiring companies. Goodwill maintains numerous community partnerships with such organizations as Career Connectors, to better meet the needs of the job seeker. As partners, these organizations target the professional job seeker, provide awareness at events and ongoing support during job search. Go to Goodwill for employment events, talent sourcing and job boards

Grand Canyon University
Rob Loy, Head of Education of Non-Degree Technology Programs

In today’s job market, 58% of all new jobs are in STEM. Computing jobs are the #1 source of new wages in the United States. To help you get the necessary skills to compete in this job market, GCU is now pleased to be offering Immersive Java Boot Camp. The camp includes more than 600 hours of project-based collaborative instruction, accelerated path to employment, competitive pricing for an on-site experience, and transferable college credits.

CLOSING

De Anne Russell, Career Connectors Board Member, closed the meeting by thanking Highlands Church & the volunteers. The next Career Connectors meeting will be in Glendale on Thursday, October 18, 2018 & features Travis Hardin, as speaker for the topic “Your Focus Determines Your Expansion.” For additional information on this event & future events, please visit the Event Schedule.

05/03/18 – Best Companies Technology Panels

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Technology PanelWritten by: Connie Huber, PHR, SHRM-CP

Denise Gredler, Founder and CEO, BestCompaniesAZ opened the meeting with an overview of upcoming events. These include the 2018 ATW Summit Alliance of Technology and Women on May 16 (men welcome too!) and Open Source, Open Mic Night at Galvanize Phoenix on June 20.

It is well known that technology is one of the fastest growing occupations in today’s workforce. Phoenix has become a hub for many technology companies and has been referred to as the “Silicon Desert” or the new “Silicon Valley.” Along with Phoenix’s growth, the number of available technology jobs has also grown. According to a recent article by Forbes Technology Council, the technology industry is projected to increase by 12% by 2024.

The Grand Canyon University Career Connector meeting provided job seekers a firsthand look into some of Arizona’s Best Technology companies.

Best Companies Panel 1 – Talent Recruitment in Technology

Kristy Bach, Tech Finders, COO
Heather Kitsko, VIXXO, Talent Acquisition Manager
Therese Valadez, Dignity Health, Director of Human Resources

COMPANY OVERVIEWS & HOW TECHNOLOGY PLAYS A ROLE IN THE PANELISTS’ ORGANIZATIONS

Tech Finders: Tech Finders has been in the Valley for over 20 years and will soon will be changing its name to E-Finders. The organization also has HR & Finance divisions. Technology allows Tech Finders to run their business by connecting & sourcing candidates. Tech Finders has been using Chrome extensions to find phone & contact information for candidates.

VIXXO: VIXXO is a leading technology-enabled asset management and business insight company specializing in integrated facilities management. Clients include those in the restaurant, retail, convenience store & grocery industries. As an example, VIXXO utilizes technology in maintaining client information and a client dashboard.

DIGNITY HEALTH: Dignity’s mission and culture is “human kindness”. The focus is to deliver passionate patient care. Technology is the backbone that ensures patients experience quality patient care.

TECHNOLOGY FIELD – WHAT DOES THE TERM MEAN/AREAS COVERED

DIGNITY HEALTH: Dignity has a broad range of technology applications. Cyber Security is an avenue being explored. All patient information is part of the database established through technology. Dignity has every technical position offered.

VIXXO: VIXXO uses technology to establish links to clients and also keeps the clients current on services they provide. At the same time technology enables VIXXO to establish a portfolio of its clients and provide easy access to the data.

TECH FINDERS: Tech Finders recruits for all positions found in the technology industry. In addition, the organization partners with technology companies and leverages technology to help them grow. Tech Finders supports anything related to data, including everything from AI technology to marketing.

HOW TO GET INTO TECHNOLOGY FIELD; WAYS TO GET EXPOSURE

TECH FINDERS: Tech Finders has partnered with GCU and Coder Camps to find candidates and learn more about technology. Professionals new to technology need to learn as much as they can about their specialty and be a lifelong learner. Ways to get into the field are by attending networking events attended by other tech folks and seize the opportunities to continue their education.

DIGNITY HEALTH: Dignity encourages people who want to get into technology to become immersed in technology groups. Successful technology professionals are those that are continuously learning. There has been a shift from the requirement of candidate’s having a 4-year degree to now having certifications and/or apprentice type roles. Contract work is a great avenue into an organization.

ADVICE FOR PERSPECTIVE EMPLOYEES

DIGNITY HEALTH: Dignity looks for some experience in technology. They also look for attitude, passion and relationship management skills. When interviewing, it is essential to know about the company and important details about the pending position. Practice interviewing and don’t assume casual dress is appropriate. Dress professionally and leave your jeans and sweats at home. Know your technical skills and capabilities and be able to present them effectively.

VIXXO: VIXXO has a collaborative environment. Candidates need to thrive in this type of work place. Heather looks for attitude and aptitude. Perspective employees need to be willing to have their ideas challenged. If an applicant does not know technology or a specific type of technology it shouldn’t be on the resume.

TECH FINDERS: Kristy feels soft skills are equally as important as technical ones. Candidates need to be prepared for the interview. Agility is a key success skill for the technology field. Perspective employees need to be able to relate their technology knowledge effectively. Critical thinking skills also play a key role for success.

RECRUITING AVENUES USED TO FIND THE RIGHT CANDIDATES

VIXXO: Heather finds candidates through networking and by reaching out to her network and technology team. Passive job seekers are found through LinkedIn.

DIGNITY HEALTH: Dignity has an intern program for technology professionals. Another great resource is contract work for the job seeker. Dignity uses a myriad of avenues to find the right candidates. Employee referrals present many opportunities for new hires.

TECH FINDERS: Tech Finders has been in the valley for 20 years. They have a database of 70,000 candidates. Kristy encouraged job seekers to be on LinkedIn and easily found on the site.

EMPLOYEE REFERRALS – ARE THEY HELPFUL IN FINDING A JOB

VIXXO: VIXXO looks at candidates that have been referred by employees. LinkedIn is great way to connect with VIXXO employees. Be sure to share your desired position and provide a resume.

DIGNITY HEALTH: Theresa reminded us if you are unfamiliar with LinkedIn, attend a seminar.

TECHNOLOGY ASPECTS THAT PANELISTS HAD NOT EXPECTED

DIGNITY HEALTH: Therese loves working with technologists. The Technology Team is committed to Dignity’s mission of giving back to the community. They are very creative and passionate about what they do; and savvy about technology.

VIXXO: Heather noted that technology is evolving. Professionals in the field need to be lifelong learners. They also need to be successful in a collaborative and agile work environment.

TECH FINDERS: Kristy really likes the fact that technology is changing. No day is the same. Technology needs are diverse.

FUTURE OF TECHNOLOGY IN AZ

TECH FINDERS: Kristy noted technology and Arizona are exploding. Currently there 9,000 technology jobs open in Phoenix. 2017 marked the highest amount of Angel investments. Phoenix is quickly becoming bigger than Silicon Valley. Efforts are focused on attracting and retaining technology students in Phoenix.

VIXXO: Heather echoed that Phoenix is one of the hottest technology markets. She feels that technology and Phoenix will continue to grow.

DIGNITY HEALTH: Therese also feels the future is bright for Phoenix. She noted that many organizations are using Phoenix as a technology hub.

POSSIBILITY OF 50+ PROFESSIONALS STARTING A NEW CAREER IN TECHNOLOGY THROUGH AN INTERN PROGRAM

DIGNITY HEALTH:  Therese is supportive in considering the possibility of an intern program for 50+ professionals. She noted that many professionals in healthcare do not retire and want to keep working.

JOB SEARCH CAN BE VERY IMPERSONAL ESPECIALLY WHEN DEALING WITH APPLICATIONS. MANY COMPANIES USE COMPUTERS TO SCAN APPLICATIONS. WHAT CAN BE DONE TO MAKE IT MORE PERSONAL?

TECH FINDERS: Kristy suggested using LinkedIn to find appropriate connections where you can share your resume. If you know a target company is participating in a career fair, be sure to attend it.

DIGNITY HEALTH: Therese encouraged job seekers to use every possible resource and not rely on one source in conducting your search.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

For current positions and to learn more about careers with these Best Companies, please visit their websites.

BEST COMPANIES PANEL #2 – Technology Career Pathways

Jaime Torres, USAA, IT Technical Director
Indu Khosia, GoDaddy, Sr. Director of Software Development
Rama Parandekar, Freedom Financial Network, Technology Talent Specialist

OVERVIEW OF COMPANY & WHAT PANELISTS LIKE ABOUT THEIR COMPANY CULTURE

GODADDY: Indu shared that the company culture is very important to her and GoDaddy. Overall, the culture is accountable, collaborative, driven, talented, motivated and customer focused.

FREEDOM FINANCIAL: Rama noted that Freedom Financial provides debt relief and works with clients to get out of debt. She has been at Freedom a short time, but really likes the company and its core values. The culture is collaborative, integrating, and allows opportunities for employees to better themselves. Employees are constantly learning and follow the company’s core values. Freedom is quickly growing and plans to add an additional 1,000 employees in 2018.

USAA: Jaime noted USAA serves 12 billion members. The company is growing and has an employee population of 1,000+ in Phoenix. Jaime indicated the culture is great at USAA. It is a self-reciprocal company and has an average tenure of 11 years. USAA has won many accolades and awards in many areas.

SKILLS NEEDED TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN TECHNOLOGY

GODADDY: Indu stressed that GoDaddy wants to see proof of the technology knowledge of perspective candidates. She suggested having a portfolio to highlight your experience and skills. Career paths are straight and narrow. Candidates need to find work that aligns with their strengths. Technology professionals need to be constantly learning.

USAA: Jaime said he could type 75 wpm when he first started with USAA. He went on to get his degree and then moved into a lateral role. Jaime really likes USAA. Employees in the technology field need to be team players, humble, and collaborative.

FREEDOM FINANCIAL: Rama was originally going to be a CPA. One drawback was her desire to have a lot of interaction with people. She had to find how to align herself in technology, which she really likes.

TYPES OF TECHNOLOGY POSITIONS & AVAILABLE HOT JOBS

GODADDY: GoDaddy is looking for a software development engineer, security engineer-network defense, workday global reporting analyst, and cloud security architect. Technology professionals who know how to code are in big demand. There are also multiple openings in the call center. Please refer to GoDaddy’s website for current openings.

FREEDOM FINANCIAL: Freedom is seeking a senior product manager, development ops engineer, front end/UI engineer, scrum master, java developer, software engineer and underwriting are a few of the openings. Employees can start in one role and the move into a technology role. For career opportunities go to Freedom Financial Network.

USAA: USAA is seeking a software integration engineer, business intelligence/ETL engineer, mainframe developer, front end software engineer and mainframe developer. Additional specifics and openings can be found here.

CONTINUTING EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES & REIMBURSED EDUCATION

GODADDY: GoDaddy does offer tuition reimbursement. They also offer online education opportunities, such as safari books and open source for coding. If employees are not involved in outside education, Indu encouraged the use of open source.

FREEDOM FINANCIAL: Freedom also has a reimbursement program.

USAAU:  USAA encourages employees to find what type of learning works best for them and offers education assistance. Employees can also attend workshops, conferences and online courses.

RATE OF CHANGE – WHAT IS IT?

In brief, rate of change is a rate that describes how one quantity changes in relation to another quantity. An individual’s rate of change should exceed the company’s rate of change. To thrive in any industry, a company’s rate of change needs to outpace the industry.

GODADDY: Indu shared with us that when she first joined GoDaddy her team was using a particular code. If she had not changed the code, their efforts would have been outdated and placed the team in jeopardy of falling behind. The group did not have the luxury to accept the status quo, but needed to take the lead in introducing a new code.

RESOURCES

WOZ U
Scott Caruso, Software Development Advisor

Inspired by Steve Wozniak, co-founder of Apple Computer, Woz U provides a personalized approach to coding and tech education designed to get you through the curriculum faster, so you can get into the workforce quicker. Classes taught include Java, JavaScript, .NET, Ruby on Rails, Data Science, & Cyber Security. There are currently over 3,400 job openings in the valley for professionals with background in the class subjects. Go to Woz U for more information.

CLOSING

Jessica Pierce, Executive Director, Career Connectors, closed the meeting by thanking Grand Canyon University and the volunteers. The next Career Connectors meeting will be in Scottsdale on Wednesday, May 10, 2017 and features Jean Briese, as speaker for the topic “Becoming Unstoppable.” For additional information on this event and future events, please visit the Event Schedule.

8/10/17 – Become a Jedi Communicator in Your Job Search

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Jedi Communicator with Jennifer RojasWritten by Michelle Soracco

Keynote Speaker

Jennifer Rojas – Confirmed Star Wars geek and Influencer

Become a Jedi Communicator in Your Job Search

Use the DISC assessment to figure out who you are and what your strengths and weaknesses are. Learn how to communicate to get what you want by giving others what they want. Create more impact when talking with people who don’t have the same strengths and weaknesses that you do.

D – Dominance/Driver
People who are “D” are results-driven, task-oriented people who get to the point quickly. When interviewing with someone like this, answer the interview questions directly and to the point – no beating around the bush. Also list your accomplishments, results and goals achieved. Example of “D”: CEO, Attorney, Darth Vader

I – Influencer/Promoter
People who are “I” are open and personable with a lot of positive energy. They will get to the point, but approach it from a personal angle. When interviewing with an “I”, maintain high, positive energy, be engaged and talk about your projects and successes from a team standpoint. The interviewer is likely visualizing you working with them and their team. Examples of “I”: Director of Marketing, Public Relations Specialist, Qui Gon Jinn

S – Steadiness/Supporter
People who are “S” have a calm manner and approach. They will share a lot of information to help you best answer the interview questions in their context. They go at a slower pace, and will take time to get to know you. When interviewing with an “S”, it is of utmost importance that you be genuine, because they can spot a fake a mile away. Speak about deadlines you’ve successfully met, along with project dates. Emphasize your teamwork. Examples of “S”: Human Resources, Account Management, Yoda

C – Conscientious/Analyzer
People who are “C” are fairly quiet and of an engineering mindset. They are logical and objective, and like to critique and test things (and people). When interviewing with an “S”, be prepared for direct questions and lots of them, and provide answers in a linear, detailed format. Discuss projects where you objectively came to a conclusion, and give specifics of said conclusion. Examples of “C”: Finance, Engineering, Strategic Planning, Luke Skywalker

Before your interview, look at the interviewer’s LinkedIn profile to determine beforehand which above type they are. You can glean information from recommendations as well as their profiles.

If you get really nervous and forget everything you prepared for, try one of two calming exercises:
1. Inhale and exhale through your nose with eyes closed, paying attention to nothing but your breath and when it gets warm or cold through your nose. Repeat until calm and focused.
2. Close your eyes and focus on the pulse in your thumb and fingers. This will take a few seconds, and you must be calm enough to feel the pulse (the light side of the Force).

Hiring Companies

Maricopa County

Kelly Dixon, HR Operations Manager @MariCoCareers

Kelly manages more than 1200 employees for Deputy County Manager Reid Spaulding, supporting 11 county departments. Maricopa County has generous benefits, including a pension plan, which you don’t see very often anymore. They understand that there is more to business than the bottom line. There are plenty of job openings in a wide variety of fields, which change on a weekly basis. Some examples are: IT Project Manager, Dietitian, Interior Designer, Medical Examiner, Wireless Network Engineer, Attorney, Court Interpreter, and Polygraph Examiner. They take the job requirements very seriously, so if you read the description and don’t have all of the requirements and years of experience, don’t apply for the position.  For more information and job listings, click here.

VIXXO

Heather Kitsko, Talent Acquisition Team Lead @WeAreVIXXO

Vixxo is an integrated facilities management company that services clients such as Starbucks, Target and Michaels. They have been a Fortune 500 Fastest Growing Private Company for 8 years straight. Vixxo is a team of doers that create innovative solutions for their customers in a fast-paced environment.  They believe that their employee diversity is their strength.  Some open positions include: Customer Service Representative, Oracle DBA, Project Manager and Staff Accountant. For more information, click here.

Allstate

Jill Romanowski, Field Sales Associate
Allison Chafin, Agency Process Specialist @AllstateCareers

Allstate has been in business since 1931, and is one of the most recognizable brands in the US today. They offer a $10,000 referral to anyone who puts them in touch with someone who wants to open their own business as an Allstate agency owner. Allstate will give them all the tools they need to succeed. If owning your own business isn’t right for you, the Tempe corporate office has open positions, such as Claims Analysts, Education Consultants and Licensed Sales Producers. For more information, click here.

Closing

Kristy Bach stood in for Jessica today, and 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 visiting the hiring companies.

Next event is in Gilbert on Tuesday, August 22, 2017 at 9am. To register, click here.

2/9/17 – How to Work a Job Fair

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How to Work a Job FairWritten by Susan Lamphiear

“Always wear cute pajamas as you never know who you’ll meet in your dreams” — not sure who said that first — but I kind of wish I’d thought to coin the phrase. Anyway, the topic is careers, so obviously you won’t see anyone on the job or at a job fair wearing slippers and pajamas except in a Dilbert comic strip. I’m thinking of all those celebrities, pictured  looking drowsy because they stepped out for some mundane reason.

Most of us, fortunately, can still take an ordinary trip to fill up the car with gas or buy groceries without being judged like a celebrity.  We’re still not recommending hair curlers (does anyone even use those these days?) or fluffy slippers, though.

Keynote

Dressing the part, while important in the job search, is only one important part of showing up prepared for a job fair, says keynote speaker Andy Ridley. Andy coaches individuals, groups and corporations towards reaching their goals and Becoming Ideal. He’s also trainer for Arizona@Work, Maricopa County (Formerly Workforce Connections).

Andy transitioned into his current career after spending many years in education. But his most lucrative job got its start indirectly via a job fair. He had applied for a job in a nearby school district, but imagine his surprise when someone at the job fair said, “You’re THE Andy Ridley?” Months before he’d applied for a job but hadn’t even received an interview.  But for some reason that application gave him name recognition. Voila. One of Andy’s most important pieces of advice—you never know who you might meet at a job fair.

Know why you came to the job fair

  • To Learn — What jobs are available, hours, what is the job, who is the employer, who else is looking for work?
  • To Meet – What employers are there? Meet them or their representatives. Meet other job seekers.
  • To Impress – Dress appropriately, and shake hands by matching the other person’s grip, leaving a good impression.

Know why employers attended the job fair

  • Not to hire on the spot
  • To learn what potential employees are available, how many hours they’re available and what tasks they’re willing to do
  • To meet people who are looking for new employment. Maybe they’re the right people for the positions available
  • To impress you, the potential employee, with what they have to offer, showing only the best side of their business

Based on his years of experience, Andy tells us to have a game plan but to remain flexible.

Making the most of the job fair

  • Figure out what you want.
  • Be proactive. Find out who’s attending — what employers will be there?
  • Create a short list of booths to visit.
  • Research your short list (Make your prep notes right on your short list).
  • Get to the event early, before it even starts (you can probably leave early when everyone starts packing up to go home).

Prepare

  • Have a resume and several copies even though most companies won’t take a paper copy.
  • Use sticky notes to separate the resumes according to various skills for various job opportunities.
  • Be prepared with questions to ask recruiters.
  • Dress as a professional. Andy suggests dressing one step above the position you want.

Be Nimble

  • To allow yourself to shake hands and not be weighted down, carry a notebook-size portfolio—make it serve as your wallet. In the wallet keep several type business cards that highlight your best qualifications, your name and contact information. Vistaprint offers affordable cards online. Put your car keys in there, too.
  • Pass up the bags and chip clips they might give out. It bogs you down. Concentrate on meeting people so you can get a job and buy your own chip clips!

Poise

Be confident, be  mature, smile, make eye contact, and be professional (put that cell phone away!)

Make a Connection

  • Briefly introduce yourself (elevator speech).
  • Tell them your name last (or first and last).
  • Offer a copy of your resume.
  • Shake hands, matching their grip.

Engage them by making a statement about the company

  • Listen and take notes.
  • Market yourself. Be positive. No negativity.
  • Be a good listener.
  • Take notes.

Watch your time

  • Limit time at each booth.
  • Walk away from booths if you know you will not be interested in working there.

Tricks

  • Introduce yourself to other candidates and to a booth rep that you feel may benefit from knowing the job seeker. It gives you another opportunity to present yourself to the company.
  • Carry blank thank you cards. Return later and offer the card with another hand shake. Put your name/contact information/ and thank them for their time.

Follow up

Go home and email the best prospects. Remember every meeting and connection is a form of an interview. And your day was a success if you met one new connection. You win if you go because you’re bound to learn at least one new thing, meet at least one new person and possibly impress one contact.

Hiring Companies

Discover

Amy Aubey, Talent Acquisition Leader

Discover offers credit cards, consumer banking, and a global network. Their mission? To help people spend smarter, manage debt better and save more so they achieve a brighter financial future.

Located at approximately 101 and I-17 (2402 W Beardsley Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85027), the company currently employs 3000 people and has 200 job openings including home equity-loan processors, bankers; full time customer service agents; full time collections agents; consumer lending and banking operations including personal loan agents, student loan agents, and deposit product agents; and full time fraud agents. Benefits are included Day 1 including 401ak, fitness center, cafe, parking, and tuition assistance up to $5000 per year.

To learn more about the company or to apply, visit their website.

VIXXO

Heather Kitsko, Talent Acquisition Team Lead

VIXXO, a full-service asset management and maintenance solutions company employs 1000 associates across the US and Canada, and serves brands including Starbucks, PetSmart, and 7-Eleven. It’s been named INC 500 Fastest-Growing Private Companies for over eight years.

A team of doers, the company’s strength lies in their diverse backgrounds and experiences, thriving in a fast-paced and dynamic environment. Open positions include director of product development, director of software engineering, lead generation specialist, senior accountant, coffee technician, customer service representatives, change management consultant, and data warehouse developer. For more information or to apply, go to their website.

Express Employment Professionals

Denzel Mason, Business Developer

Express Employment Professionals is a locally-owned and operated staffing company located in Tempe. The top three benefits of the company include job resources, flexibility, immediate eligibility for medical benefits including medical, dental, vision, short term disability, life insurance and holiday and vacation pay.

The company, a member of both the Tempe and Mesa Chambers of Commerce, provides skills assessment, connections to local employers, and proactive marketing of candidates. A one stop shop, they offer resume review, interview advice and wage negotiations. Positions open include part-time, full-time and contract work.

Current openings include staff accountant, full charge bookkeeper, customer account supervisor, bilingual Spanish content editor, Special Education Teacher (Casa Grande), art process technician, P&C licensed sales rep and CSR, enrolled agent/office manager (Cave Creek), CPA/Tax Reviewer. Internal at local Express Office needs outside sales/business developer; bilingual front office coordinator; and part-time contract recruiter. For more information, check out their website.

Resources

Goodwill of Central Arizona

Carter Ellis, Professional Career Advisor

Goodwill of Central Arizona is a non-profit organization working as a positive catalyst for eliminating unemployment. They also transform gently used donated goods into services to help thousands of Arizonans. They provide on-site career development via Goodwill Career Centers and connect local talent with Valley employers including Prescott and Yuma.

Serving the community, Goodwill partners with employers and collaborates with community resources. Goodwill provides career coaching, resume critiquing, and mock interviewing.  They provide on-site services. You may connect with them through employment events, talent sourcing and Goodwill Job Board. In holding job fairs, Goodwill is more interested in quality than quantity – They like to match what job seekers are looking for with what companies need.

To learn more about Goodwill, and details of what they offer, visit their website.

Closing

Closing the formal part of the meeting, Sheila Coulam, Director of Operations for Career Connectors, thanked everyone, including volunteers and our host, Highlands Church. She reminded everyone of the Career Connectors website which has lots of resources such as the new career advice blog which includes a blog on how to transition from the military to civilian jobs.

Sheila pointed out the resources on hand after the formal meeting — the opportunity to talk with hiring companies, to consult with LinkedIn and resume preparation experts, and to meet the professional photographer to take free business heat shots.

She pointed out that the next Scottsdale meeting is the third Thursday of the month in March , March 16 (NOT the usual second Thursday).

For other upcoming Career Connectors events, more details, and to register, click here.