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8/26/21 – Networking Anywhere

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Written By Susan Lamphiear

Erica McBeth Networking Anywhere

This doggone PANDEMIC. Now, doesn’t it just bring so many human basics into laser focus? Sort of in your face? Like the importance of making connections with people. Real connections. Meeting people. Looking people in the eye. Hearing the sound of the human voice. Hearing the voice of the human soul through connection. Listening, really listening to people. Not occasionally eyeing them as they speak, your real attention fixed on your iphone. Or your own attention focused on what YOU’RE going to say next, not on what they’re saying. In the present moment.

Career Connectors’ keynote speaker on August 26, 2021, day # “what seems a billion” of the Pandemic, brings added relevance to a little thing, often known in the context of the business world, as “networking.” But guess what. Networking is not just a means to a job, though it helps. It’s about so much more. Thus the title, “Networking Anywhere.”

Keynote

Whether you consider yourself an extrovert or an introvert, do you ever find yourself in the throes of networking dread? When she was in her early twenties, our keynote speaker Erica McBeth admits she didn’t feel all that confident in the networking process. Walking back from an event, a friend reassured her, “You are the best at networking, Erica.”

“Why would you say that?’

“Well, I sat and watched you talk for an hour to someone you didn’t even know.”

“But we were just talking about his dog!”

“That’s what networking is!” her friend said.

Erica talked to an online audience of job seekers at Career Connectors recently, where she defined networking as “just talking.”

But first, Erica told her back story about a life-changing aha moment that centered on–you guessed it–just talking to people.

Turns out 2017 was rough–her heart had been broken, her health took a detour, and a lucrative job she thought would be easy–WASN’T.

Depression she’d battled her whole life came creeping back. Night after night she’d retreat to her condo with her three little dogs and watch Netflix.

By chance one day hearing about a suicide prevention walk in downtown Phoenix, Erica decided to invite her friend Katie, whose brother had died from suicide the year before.

In the midst of that crowd of 2000 people who gathered that day in Phoenix –because they felt passionate about preventing suicide–it dawned on Erica–“I bet a lot of people lost someone they loved because they felt sad and lonely and depressed.” Kind of like Erica was feeling right there in that moment.

“If there are this many people in the world lonely, and I’m lonely, then why aren’t we just talking to each other, ’cause that seems like the thing that could make us all feel better, right?” And suddenly she was filled with a desire to do something about it.

That’s how the idea emerged–to meet 52 people in one year–one per week. That seemed like a lot of people. So began Erica’s project which led to her book, 52 New Friends and her video series How to Make Friends and Beat Loneliness. Plus a whole lot more. It’s basically changed her whole life.

In 2018 Erica met people in all different ways. It wasn’t even hard, she says. She’d imagined having to wander throughout coffee shops pathetically begging strangers to talk to her. Instead, slowly but surely, people actually starting catching onto her ways. “They actually started coming to me, and I actually had a waiting list of people who wanted to sit down and talk to me–how crazy is that?”

“I’m not some big important person. I’m just a regular person they wanted to sit down with and it was only because I was willing to listen.”

“Three months into the project I suddenly realized–all of that depression I had in 2017–completely gone!”

“Six months into the project I realized it was changing me in ways I couldn’t explain.”

“You can change almost every aspect of your life in a positive way just by talking to people. And that includes finding a job.” Erica has lived the mantra.

When she was growing up, Erica honestly believed most mothers had the kind of information her mother had about the townspeople her mother ran into–their names and all about their families. “Everyone in that little Kentucky town loved my mother because she stopped to talk to them and made them feel important.”

“Networking is just an exercise in kindness that we give to ourselves and to other people,” Erica says.

Where to Find People

  • Old and Current Co-Workers
  • Your Current Friends
  • A Friend Referral
  • Social Media
  • Your Neighbors

Where Erica Has Found Jobs

  • Erica reached out to a former co-worker on social media she hadn’t seen in nine months who mentioned online she was going through a divorce. Erica knew this was a difficult situation and wanted her friend to know she supported her. Her friend mentioned she was working for a company she really liked and since friend Amy had really liked working with Erica, Amy invited her to apply. As it turned out it wasn’t the job for her, but Erica reminds everyone that because she showed genuine interest in her friend, it led to a job prospect and interview. You really never know where your job leads will come from
  • A current social media friend asked Erica to lunch and after Erica said yes to a specific time and day, she started to panic a little because she couldn’t remember how she originally connected with the friend. Turns out it didn’t matter because they had several things in common and now they really enjoy hanging out together. Friend Heather works in HR and since Heather knew Jessica Pierce of Career Connectors, that’s the reason Erica’s speaking to Career Connectors today. So, get to know people on the “fringe” of your circle, because you truly just never know.
  • A man she was dating invited Erica to his young daughter’s birthday party but no one at her job could take time off over the weekend. When Erica asked for an exception, they said “No” which quite frankly made her a little mad. The guy she was dating mentioned the issue to his co-worker who said she had a friend in Erica’s industry. That friend called Erica who ultimately got a different job through that referral!
  • She reached out to someone she didn’t know on social media because she thought they looked “cool.” At the time Erica thought the opportunity could lead to a side hustle but it turned into a marketing consulting company in its own right–all because of an opportunity someone gave her over social media. Again, you just never know where opportunities may come from.
  • Five years ago Erica lived across from Jen but hadn’t talked to her for six months. One day they had lunch and Erica mentioned she wasn’t all that happy with her current job. Jen said, “We’re hiring. Why don’t you come and work with me?” Erica thought Jen owned a daycare out of her home. But since they’d moved, Jen now worked in HR at a tech company. Shortly after that lunch, Erica applied and got that job, too.

What to say

  • I think you’re interesting.
  • I’d like to get to know you better.
  • Could I buy you a cup of coffee sometime? (Or during Covid: Could we do a Zoom call sometime?)
  • When would be a good time for you?
  • How can I contact you so we can get something set up?

Homework on The Art of Chit-Chat

Once you’ve set up a coffee OR Zoom, try this:

  1. Ask an open-ended question.
  2. Listen to the response and acknowledge.
  3. Ask another question.
  4. Repeat these steps.

Erica demonstrated these steps live by getting to know the new Executive Director of Career Connectors Joey Richardson. At the conclusion of the demo, Erica said, “Now, see how easy that was?”

Hiring Companies

Amkor Technology

Brenda Perry, VP HR and Privacy Officer

Amkor employs 33,0000 workers in nine countries. In business for 50 years, they are an innovative global semi-conductor processing company with headquarters in Tempe, Arizona, looking for equally innovative employees.

  • Recognized as a great place to work, the company offers many benefits including matching 401k and a diverse workforce.
  • Amkor prides itself on very little employee turnover; they emphasize work-life balance for all employees.
  • Award-winning Amkor Health Happenings (AHH). Medical premium costs can be offset by employees improving their lifestyle choices with a fitness tracking device.
  • Many opportunities are available.

Benefits

  • 401k with company match
  • Medical, Dental, Vision insurance
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Supplemental life dependent insurance
  • Short/long term disability insurance
  • Travel accident insurance
  • Paid holidays
  • Bonus vacation (after 5 years of service)
  • Employee assistance program
  • Pre-paid legal
  • Profit sharing
  • Service recognition
  • Skills development
  • Tuition reimbursement

Current Positions Open in Tempe, AZ

Engineering

  • Advanced Flip Chip Product Management
  • Director, Water Services Business Unit
  • Director, Advanced Product Development
  • Sr. Engineer/Software Developer, Design Automation
  • Sr. Manager, Power Product Line
  • Sr. Manager, Leadframe Products
  • Sr. Manager, MicroLeadframe Products
  • Sr. Manager, Business Enablement
  • Manager, Engineer Pricing
  • Manager, Leadframe Products

Accounting/Finance Position

  • Sr. Accountant, External Reporting

Legal/Human Resources

  • Director, Compliance
  • Manager, Human Resources

To apply, or for more information, visit their website.

Rogers Corporation

Bea Trembath, HR Manager

Rogers Corporation is a global leader in engineered materials headquartered in Chandler, Arizona. They manufacture advanced electronics and elastomeric solutions, elastomer components, and Durel drivers. They make material for computer chips. The company has been around many years but moved from their Arizona headquarters in 2016.

Known for their innovation and delivering results, they employ 5000 people worldwide.

The corporation offers much to its employees.

  • Competitive Salary
  • Annual Incentive Compensation Bonus Plans
  • Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Life Insurance
  • Short and Long-Term Disability
  • Flexible Spending Health Savings Accounts
  • 401(k) with Company Match
  • Wellness Reimbursement Program
  • Paid Vacation Sick Time
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Global Stock Ownership Plan
  • Matching gift program for charitable donations
  • Corporate Training

Current Openings

  • Production Operator (multiple openings/shifts)
  • Pricing Analyst
  • Tax Manager
  • Quality Engineer
  • Talent Acquisition Manager
  • Technical Service Engineer
  • Sr. SAP Solution Architect
  • Sr. Tax Accountant
  • Quality Director
  • Director Accounting Controls
  • Sr. Accountant

For more information or to apply visit their website.

WealthWave

Jason Wiseman, Senior Marketing Director

WealthWave, through its network of financial leaders, strives to create a financially literate world. Made up of independent business owners, WealthWave professionals seek to educate the masses and make investing and financial success easier for regular families all over the world.

Concerned because he wanted to know more about financial planning and retirement, Jason Wiseman talked with his wife about their need to educate themselves for their own financial health. At one point he turned to his CPA and said, “What does it take to do what you do?”

After several years in corporate America, when Jason transitioned into his current role at WealthWave, it helped him ease into the field by working part-time, something unheard of in the industry.

WealthWave strives to educate people and help them navigate the world of finance to have more peace of mind, including in their retirement plans.

Why Choose WealthWave?

  • Turnkey Solution
  • Licensed Profession
  • Ownership
  • Digital Marketing/Media
  • Start Part-time
  • No layoff or Furloughs
  • Hands on Training and Mentorship
  • A long history of helping families

Jason is currently looking to train either two full or part-time professionals. To apply, contact Jason Wiseman.

Resources and Closing

Founder/CEO of Career Connectors Jessica Pierce closed the first part of the meeting in preparation for online breakout sessions, turning that part of the meeting over to Sheila Coulam, Director of Operations at Career Connectors.

Jessica thanked all in attendance and referred everyone to the free resources available on the Career Connectors website. Among upcoming events include the Resume Mythbusters: Certified Resume Writer Panel September 9, 2021, and East Valley Job-A-Palooza, September 23, 2021. Click on the links to register for these online events.

Anyone interested in volunteering as a blogger for the events, click on this link.

7/15/21: DISC: Understand the Value You Bring

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Written by Gary Matsuda

You may have a hunch about your strengths and weaknesses but if you ask friends and relatives to give you their honest evaluation, you might get something along the lines of, ‘I love you just the way you are’. Nor are you likely to get feedback if you didn’t get the job offer other than you “weren’t a good fit”. So how can you get a true assessment of your value and areas of improvement? It seems no one else knows you like you do.
Except for DISC. This 21 question test taken in just a few minutes with about 80% accuracy, can provide an appraisal of what you bring to (or take away from) others. Good to know before you apply for jobs and prepare for interviews!

DISC Understanding Your Value


KEYNOTE


As a career planning application, DISC measures behaviors that are descriptive and observable, rather than your ‘why’ or what motivates you. The DISC profile report can be quite overwhelming at first, so Career Connectors brought in leadership expert, Marleen Lundy, Senior Partner, Magna Leadership Solutions. She breaks down how DISC can enhance what you know about yourself, what situations to avoid, and how to improve your professional image and connections. Not only will you know yourself better, but it will help identify others DISC profiles so you’ll know how to speak their language. What a way to create better relationships, build your network more easily, and get what you want!
D.I.S.C. stands for 4 personality styles:

  • Dominance: How you handle problems, are you driven, ambitious, strong willed.
  • Influence: How you handle people by being, enthusiastic, warm, persuasive.
  • Steadiness: How you handle pace, do you think fast, act fast. Are you loyal, relaxed, patient.
  • Compliance: How you handle procedures/ constraints, do you follow rules. Are you detail oriented, conventional, exacting.

The DISC profile report will summarize the general characteristics of your work style into:

  • Major talents.
  • How you deal with problems/challenges.
  • Your communication style.

Value to the Organization
DISC identifies what talents or behaviors you bring to the job, so you’ll want everyone to see this on your cover letter or resume! This section will specifically describe what you offer and how you could fit into an organization. Some statements in these results can actually be copied into your resume or cover letter. Easy!

Ideal Environment
No matter how strong your talents are, they’ll be of little use in the wrong place. DISC will also indicate the Ideal Environment that fits your work style. Here’s where you should consider if the work culture will be favorable or unfavorable to your behavioral preferences. During a phone screen or interview, the type of work environment that’s described could give you clues if the organization suits you. If there seem to be too many limitations on your naturally in-born behaviors, it could mean the job or the culture are not right for you.
Also, the results identify specific duties that you enjoy and those that cause frustration. Inquiring about job responsibilities can be the basis for questions that you can ask during an interview. Of course, we all need have to have flexibility and adapt to different people and situations, but at least you have warning if an organization is too far out of your comfort zone.

Keys to Motivating (you)

This describes how your productivity is driven by external wants. Generally, these motivators are short term, once they are met, they are no longer motivators. But there could be several wants that motivate you (For instance, wanting to be the best at what you do, checking off your to-do list).
Keys to Managing
Shows how you prefer to be managed so that you perform at an optimal level. These needs are more permanent within you and should exist in the way you are managed, or the working relationship will be strained. This information about you can be used to create your development plan so that your manager knows how to bring out the best in you.

Areas of Improvement
It’s easy for others to notice where we fall short, but the trick is finding someone who can tell us objectively and still be friends. Your DISC profile will objectively point out your possible limitations and what behaviors could hinder your performance. Don’t be surprised if this section shows a long list of possible shortcomings, everyone needs to improve. Break it down so that you’ll work on just one or two at a time. This is where you can get the most out of DISC since a concrete plan can be developed and put into action to reduce this barrier to performance.

Communication Tips
Also included in your DISC report are tips on how you can relate better to other DISC profiles which is especially useful during a phone screen or interview. It will specifically tell you what to say so that someone with a different profile will understand you. So, if you want to mirror the other person’s actions while you are on a call or interview, this is great to have as a reference guide.

But check this out: see if you can identify DISC profiles in TV show and movie characters. Films and shows will try and include every personality type in their show so that you can relate to (and be hooked) to their programming. This can be a quick and easy exercise to help you develop observation skills to read other people profiles without knowing their DISC test results.

Identify others by Body language
Communication is 78% body language and inflection. Therefore, to make it easier to build relationships, you should make it easier for others to read you too. That is if they can see you, so be sure to turn your camera on for virtual meetings (unless there’s good reason you want to remain hidden).

Here’s what to look for when attempting to identify someone’s profile:

Dominance

  • Voice: Does their speaking sound strong, clear, confident, fast-paced, forceful.
  • Volume: Turned up to 11!
  • Body Language: Direct eye contact, points finger, leans towards you.

Influence

  • Voice: Animated, friendly, rambles, explains, casual.
  • Volume: Fairly loud.
  • Body Language: Smiles a lot, uses expressive gestures.

Steadiness

  • Voice: Low voice tone, warm detail-oriented, methodical.
  • Volume: Soft volume.
  • Body Language: Small hand gestures, relaxed, non-emotional.

Compliance

  • Voice: Monotone, precise, deliberate.
  • Volume: Quiet.
  • Body Language: Very few hand gestures, minimal but direct eye contact, controlled and composed.

Identify Others Communication Types
These communication style indicators can be clues to determining someone else’s likely DISC profile. Not only will these sharpen your listening and observation skills, but if you can match how the other person prefers how to be communicated with, the other person may become more relaxed with you and you will be more liked.

Dominance

  • Jumps right into conversation without saying hello or using a common greeting.
  • Brief, forceful and gone.
  • Puts entire message in email subject line.

Influence

  • Entertains when talking.
  • Holds long conversations.
  • Emails are log and overuses exclamation points, underlines, and emoticons.

Steadiness

  • Asks “How are you?” and sincerely wants to know.
  • Projects genuine warmth.
  • Patient and good listener.
  • Writes to stay on touch.

Compliance

  • Prefers formal names (Pay attention how they pronounce their name and nail it.).
  • Emails are sent to clarify or explain.
  • Uses attachments as supporting data.

There is a wealth of useful information in the DISC report to help your resume and cover letter be a stand-out, how to communicate and present yourself during professional interviews and improve other personal interactions. And you can get it FREE with Career Connectors!
For more insight on how you can use your DISC profile and more of Marleen’s career services (Career Connectors get a %15 discount) contact: Marleen Lundy for more information.

HIRING COMPANIES


Arizona Department of Economic Security
Nancy Stanford, Recruiting Manager

Everyone needs genuine help now and then and if you’re sympathetic and want to make direct impact on your neighbors who need a temporary boost, consider the opportunities with AZ DES!
There are meaningful opportunities that will make you rethink that working for the government isn’t purposeful and these include:

  • Adult Protective Services Investigator
  • Direct Care worker
  • Case manager
  • Administrative Assistant
  • Financial Analyst
  • HR Generalist
  • Mainframe programmer
  • Legal assistant
  • Administrative Law Judges
  • And many more! Postings change daily
  • Get hired and you’ll be eligible for the Arizona State benefits that are rarely matched in the private sector.

Apply thorough AZ State Job Board: www.azstatejobs.gov

Express Employment Professionals
Daria Orozco, Owner

You wouldn’t think of a staffing company as a career choice, but here you are.
Express Employment Pros gives you a personalized approach to job seeking and provides:

  • Training, skills assessment
  • Career choice (over 200 positions open in many industries)
  • Time to evaluate position
  • Benefits to cover you while you are temping
  • Market you to their client companies
  • Wage negotiations, resume and interview advice

Although this is a staffing company, it has various employment options. You don’t have to stay employed with Express Pros forever, but you can if you want to.

Internally they are hiring for:

  • Outside Sales/Business Developer
  • Front Office Coordinator
  • Employment Specialist
  • Professional Recruiter
  • Franchise Manager

Express valley-wide is hiring for over 200 positions, including:

  • Accounting Analyst
  • Procurement Specialist
  • Scheduler
  • Customer Service
  • Bilingual HR Assistant
  • Bilingual Cashier

WealthWave
Jason Wiseman, Sr. Marketing Director

If you aren’t sure about returning as a corporate employee with a steady paycheck, here’s an opportunity to exploit your strengths through your own business or side gig. At the same time if you are hesitant about going all in towards being an entrepreneur, this organization is flexible enough so they can help you transition into something part time.

Their mission is to educate on financial matters so people are prevented from making easy avoidable financial mistakes, through their program, ‘How Money Works’. If you want to help those who are frustrated with investments, consider this business opportunity. You can jump in with both feet or dip your toes in first and start part time.

Speak to:
Jason Wiseman, Sr. Marketing Director
480.861.6111
Jason.Wiseman@wealthwave.com
https://wealthwave.com/jasonwiseman
https://howmoneyworks.com/jasonwiseman

05/20/21 – Discover and Unleash Your Super Power

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Keynote

Written by Kitty Carlisle

As the Arizona’s highest ranked and most reviewed motivational speaker in Phoenix, Jean Briese discusses leadership, high performing cultures, empowering women, and more on her website. She’s also a successful entrepreneur, a sought after speaker, and a recognized business leader.
Her focus during Discover and Unleash Your Super Power, her online presentation for Career Connectors, was to share that extraordinary people who achieve extraordinary things are actually ordinary people who happen to share some important traits that she calls Super Powers. Jean relates her message to job transition and to surviving the move into a post-pandemic world. And, importantly, to living a happier life.
When you engage these Super Powers, they have the ability to be life-changing.

Five Super Powers:

  • The Power of Habits
  • The Power of Your Purpose
  • The Power of Your Beliefs
  • The Power of People
  • The Power of Action
  1. The Power of HABITS
    Jean highly recommends that we all develop proactive habits. She includes recommendations from high achievers or research to determine your habits by answering these questions:
    • How do you start your day?
    • What are your sleep habits?
    • What is your fitness plan – body & spirit?
    • What time wasters/distractions do you need to address?
    • How do you HELP others?
    • How do you spend your money?
    Habits are what we do without thinking. We just do them.
    Gold medal Olympian Michael Phelps credits his athletic success to his habits. He has banished “I can’t” from his vocabulary and he does not allow anybody around him to say “I can’t.” He also uses the power of envisioning by making it a habit of practicing in his head.
  2. The Power of PURPOSE
    Do you know your purpose? What is something you do and never get tired of? Pick one strength and become amazing at it. Do the tasks that support your goals, your purpose. Our culture loves the spectacular, but too often we strive to overcome our weaknesses instead of concentrating on our strengths.
    Towards determining or solidifying your purpose, Jean recommends sending an email to 5-7 friends and asking them what they consider your top three strengths to be. Then ask them if there’s something you could do better. She did this with one of her successful teams, but was very disappointed at first when so many of the responses came back saying, “Jean Cares.” She was looking for a response she could put on her resume. She wanted action items since our culture is so heavily fixed on outcomes and she was always taught to produce results. But as it turns out, one of the key reasons her teams succeeded was because they felt Jean cared. It was, in fact, her Super Power.
    Too often, we don’t get or give credit for our strengths because we feel society doesn’t value a strength that’s not tangible. However, the number one trait that recruiters are looking for when they want to hire a new leader is that person’s purpose. Because when you move in your purpose, people will follow you.
  3. The Power of BELIEFS
    Belief is the conclusion we’ve come to. What is our truth? Two kinds of truth include lower case truth and upper case TRUTH.
    Jean’s “truth” is that she was abandoned. But that doesn’t mean she’s unlovable. It was a truth for only a season. Her actual “Truth” is something else.
    We have to quit talking to ourselves in a negative fashion, Jean says. It is a conclusion based on experience or maybe because somebody told us something; it does not necessarily mean it is true.
    And it’s essential to know that sometimes truth isn’t truth at all.
  4. The Power of PEOPLE
    In a study measuring stress levels, it was discovered that individuals who had a friend by their side found a hill easier to climb. So we really do need people – especially during a job search or career transition. It’s important to realize, though, that some people are lessons and some are blessings.
    During the pandemic, we had people. And now that fears surrounding the virus are on a downward trend, we still have people. Some were with us from the start and a number of them may have shown up during all the uncertainties. People help us navigate this journey (life, career changes, successes, failures).
    Use LinkedIn to expand your circle of people. Ask someone in your circle of influence to introduce you to others; you don’t have to go it alone. Networking is an important part of utilizing the power of people – not only for your benefit, but for theirs, as well.
    Consider adding a coach or a mentor to your inner circle. These are the kinds of people you want beside you to help you on your journey – to guide you. Ask yourself who you are learning from. Your goal is to discover your absolute truth.
  5. The Power of ACTION
    Action is key! Did you know that only 10% of those who attend a conference or take a class ever take action afterwards? The number one reason we don’t take action is fear.
    Even though many people in the U.S. still believe that the American dream is attainable, too many people will die without realizing their life’s dreams.
    Jean watched a group called Zucaroh on America’s Got Talent with her daughter, who was ten years old at the time. The group introduced themselves as amateurs who wanted to improve, to be better. They accepted everyone who wanted to be in their group. They performed acrobatics Jean and her daughter had never seen before, and they received the Golden Buzzer, which meant the group went directly to the live show. Jean’s daughter turned to her and said, “I wonder how many fails that took?”
    A great life lesson here is we ACT, we FAIL, we LEARN and we ADJUST. Repeat.
    Four Steps to Engage Your Super Powers
    • You must BELIEVE
    • You must be DELIBERATE
    • You must STRATEGICALLY PLAN YOUR TIME
    • You must HAVE A MENTOR
    In taking action, people are exhibiting their POWER of Choice – and sometimes the only choice we have in life is how to react. Reframe your thoughts from “I HAVE to do this” to “I GET to do this.”
    Be HAPPY.
    • Habits
    • Action
    • Purpose
    • People
    • Your Beliefs

Hiring Companies

Bank of the West
Doug Deyo
Bank of the West has been around for over 100 years and currently has more than 10,000 team members in 23 states. They have a diverse and inclusive culture and a generous benefits program.
Bank of the West is currently hiring in a variety of areas, including: Operations, Mortgage Operations, IT, Banking, and Loan Operations. Find details at BankoftheWest.com/careers.

IRIS USA
Christina Rudy
IRIS USA has corporate offices in Surprise, AZ, with other locations in Wisconsin, Pennsylvania and Texas. They are growing rapidly and did not have to lay anyone off during the pandemic. Some openings include buyer, programmers, full stack web developer, HR project coordinator and corporate recruiter. More information available at IRISUSAinc.info/careers.

LGE Design Build
Carrie Masters
LGE Design Build is a full-service general contractor, with both commercial and high end custom homes. They also have an architecture and interior design firm. A third entity under the LGE umbrella is a development and investment company. They have a very strong culture with these values: proactive, dependability, quality, communication.
Carrie is looking for Project Architects, Architectural Project Director, Business Development Professional, Staff Accountant and Project Manager/Estimator. More information can be found at LGEDesignBuild.com/careers.

WealthWave
Jason Wiseman
Wealthwave has been shaking up the status quo of the financial industry and shifting the advantage in favor of families all over North America. Their vision is a world where everyone is financially literate and has access to the tools and support they need to use that knowledge to create a better life for themselves and their children.
Their network of leaders offer:
• Turnkey solution
• Licensed profession
• Ownership
• Digital Marketing/Media
• Start part time
• No layoffs or furloughs
• Hands on training and mentorship
• A long history of helping families
If you’d like more information or a free copy of the How Money Works book, contact Jason at Jason.Wiseman@wealthwave.com.

CLOSING & RESOURCES

Jessica closed the meeting by thanking our speakers and volunteers!
Our next event is Thursday, June 10, 2021.

5/6/21 – The Career Success Formula

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Written by Rachel Gersten

Career Success Formula

KEYNOTE

4 Stages of Optimal Job Seeking Success
Clara Chorley

Our speaker was Clara Chorley, a career coach and founder of Clarity Unlimited. Clara has worked in a number of industries and truly found her calling by helping others. She provides us with a blueprint for success by breaking down what each job seekers needs to do to find their next job opportunity. What makes this process even more special is we can all do this in 4 simple stages.

Stage 1: Clarify – This is the stage where you begin to ask questions of yourself. What is my job title? What is the company culture like? How do I narrow my focus in the job you want?

Stage 2: Verify – This the stage where you start to answer those questions you had in the clarify stage. Start looking at job descriptions and how it aligns with your goals. It’s also helpful to see if there are any gaps you may have with your skills.

Stage 3: Explore – This the stage where you start going to networking events, interviews. Do things that get you away from your computer and out talking to others.

Stage 4: Engage – This the final stage where you get a variety of things coming at you both good and bad. There may be an interview request as well as rejection emails. Emotions can be very high at this stage. It is crucial to keep moving forward despite the challenges involved.

Remember throughout these stages that maintaining endurance is a must.

Clara also has a tool designed to show individuals their personality traits and then ways to optimize the job search at clarityunlimited.com/bestself.

HIRING COMPANIES

APN Staffing, Nicholas Mazur
APN Staffing is a boutique staffing firm. They started in 1991 to meet the staffing needs for the auto industry. The company has since added staffing for the growing healthcare industry. They have placed about 200 people in full time positions and many more in short-term positions last year alone.

Current opportunities at APN Staffing are:
Director nursing
Parts manager
Executive Recruiter
Estimator

Microchip Technology, Kathy Allemang and Jennifer McCoy
Microchip Technology makes semi-conductors and has a reputation for their high-performance standards. The main headquarters is in Chandler, AZ with over 18,000 employees worldwide. There are many engineering related roles. Please visit the career site for more information on these positions as well as work in finance, marketing and legal. Microchip Technology is experiencing a booming business and needs a lot of great people.

Some of the opportunities at Microchip Technology include:
Project Manager
Technical Staff Engineer
Senior Engineer – Software
Product Marketing Manager

WealthWave, Jason Wiseman
WealthWave has a mission to educate people and eliminate financial illiteracy. If you are looking for an opportunity for a great side hustle job this is the place to be. Contact Jason at Jason.Wiseman@wealthwave.com.

CLOSING

Jessica Pierce wrapped up the meeting by reminding the group to visit the Career Connectors website at https://careerconnectors.org for additional information on upcoming meetings, support tools and event recaps. She went on to thank our Key Note Speaker, Clara Chorley, employers, all the amazing corporate sponsors and volunteers. The next meeting will be held on May 13th at 9am Arizona time. This meeting is the Semi-Annual Diversity Talks and will feature several of the top employers in the valley. Please remember to sign up online for our next meeting.

I will end this week’s blog with a quote, “Find out what you like doing best, and get someone to pay you for it.” Let’s remember, this can be a fun process.

04/22/21 – How to Use LinkedIn in 15 Minutes Per Day

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Written By Susan Lamphiear

Brenda Cunningham LinkedIn in 15 minutes per day

LinkedIn remains the go-to source for job recruiters who are searching to fill a variety of positions. However, it’s not enough to simply post your profile on LinkedIn. That’s just the start. Career Connectors’ keynote speaker recently offered specific tips for making better use of LinkedIn as a must-have resource.

Keynote

Author of Crush the Pink Slip: Get Back to Work in 60 Days, Brenda Cunningham today is a career and job search expert. After working nine and a half years in corporate America as an engineer, she successfully transitioned into her current role helping individuals communicate their value to potential employers.

Brenda knows the importance of LinkedIn for today’s job seeker, including anyone who is transitioning into another field. You MUST have a presence on LinkedIn today. Period.

“All of us can have access to the people and possibilities that LinkedIn brings,” Brenda said when she spoke to the online audience of Career Connectors. She reminded everyone who’s still not convinced– “LinkedIn is NOT just for CEOs and VPs and super-duper decision makers” though she assumes at the outset everyone has already accepted on some level LinkedIn’s importance.

THE CASE FOR LINKEDIN

  • Building your professional network/connections!
  • Job board availability
  • Getting found by recruiters
  • Professional development
  • Salary research
  • Expectations by corporate America
  • Powerful search tool
  • Employer research/interviewer research
  • Showcasing your expertise
  • Staying connected with your professional colleagues!

Brenda emphasizes the case for LinkedIn STARTS with connection and ENDS with STAYING connected.

Once you’re on LinkedIn, what next?

Brenda was in corporate America long enough to see whole departments eliminated! That alone is a compelling reason to build and maintain your network on LinkedIn. Recruiters use LinkedIn as their number one source of specific job needs, so, hey, stop hiding out! Make your presence known on LinkedIn. Don’t be the world’s best kept secret!

Tips for making best use of your 15 minutes per day on LinkedIn

  • Spend five minutes scanning your news feed. “Like” things pertinent to your brand. What do you want people to know about you? Demonstrate this by “liking” articles others post. Or post an article yourself you’ve carefully selected because it shows who you are and what you value. If you’re in IT, for example, post or like or give a response to someone else’s post that targets your field of interest. Brand yourself by what you post. Like, share, post and comment on what supports YOUR image. Be in support of that THING you want to be known for. Brenda transitioned into her new career path primarily by establishing herself as a career manager on LinkedIn.
  • Spend four minutes searching and inviting. Search for companies you’re interested in. You can invite key people into your network after researching and customizing your request. Think of this as a long game strategy. And remember you have to EARN the right to ask directly for help. Instead, reach out and become known by sharing information. Build relationships before you even think of asking anything of your contacts. ALWAYS personalize your invitations to connect. For example, remind them how you met or when you heard them speak.
  • Spend two minutes saying “Hello.” If you see an opportunity for someone or if you see an article you think they’d enjoy or appreciate, reach out. Keep in touch by sending personalized messages. Ask for favors ONLY after you’ve established a relationship with them.
  • Spend four minutes on groups. Research and post information and respond to information you find there. Use groups as an interactive way to communicate. Ask questions and respond to questions. Share information and post articles pertinent to the group. Start by joining Career Connectors Group on LinkedIn!

Set Yourself Up for Success!

  • Photo–Make sure you have a professional, quality photo on your LinkedIn profile.
  • Include a meaningful headline.
  • Be sure yours is a content-rich profile. Remember to use key words.
  • BEWARE. Use Ready to Work Badge feature with care. It can result in discrimination.
  • Use Spellcheck AND proofread. They are NOT the same thing.
  • Ask for strong (and specific) recommendations. If someone is writing you a recommendation, request a particular area or areas you’d like emphasized. Ask them to be specific.

Remember what Brenda advises. LinkedIn is all about establishing, then nurturing professional relationships. Building relationships happens over time, not overnight. “LinkedIn is NOT MAGIC. Put in the work to reap what you sow.”

Hiring Companies

Terros Health

Heather Cepek, Recruiter

Terros Health, offering integrated health care, was founded in 1969 in one small building in Phoenix to help individuals with addiction issues. A nonprofit, Terros has continued to grow and expand over the past 50 years.

Besides locations throughout Maricopa County, Terros offers recovery for individuals through a mobile crisis unit. A recent grant as of February, 2021, allows for expansion of Terros’s services throughout Arizona.

Inspiring changes for life, Terros focuses on the whole person. Terros has helped over 65,000 individuals.

Terros offers a number of benefits to employees including great work/life balance, continued growth opportunities, no 90-day waiting period for benefits, continued training, and an Honor Scholarship Program for individuals working on a master’s degree. Health benefits include medical, dental and vision via Blue Cross/Blue Shield with choices from 10 different plans. A generous PTO program, employees receive four weeks PTO in their first year.

A number of positions are available including clinicians, assessment clinicians, recovery coaches, and care coordinators. Clinicians throughout Arizona require an MA in Behavioral Health. For more information, or to apply, visit their website.

Willscot Mobile Mini

Jordanne Ringwald, Director, Talent Acquisition

Willscot Mobile Mini in 2020 completed a merger, joining forces to bring together the leaders in modular space and portable storage and tank solutions. With one call, one order, one delivery and one bill, customers get everything they want for their site: buildings, storage, fixtures, furnishings, services, everything.

The merged company has recommitted to the following values:

  • Dedicated to Health & Safety
  • Committed to Inclusion and Diversity
  • Driven to Excellence
  • Being Trustworthy & Reliable
  • Devoted to their Customers
  • Being Community Focused

Their company culture rewards excellence, integrity, and innovation. More than 4,000 employees strong, they are always looking for new talent to add to their team.

“Willscot/Mobil Mini’s Core Values continue to guide us towards not only achieving our true potential, but also creating a work environment which is inclusive and allows every person to thrive.” Brad Schultz, CEO

Headquartered in Phoenix, the following open roles are available: Customer Success Specialist, Sales Representative, Sales Trainee, Sr. Accountant, Transportation Coordinator, Collections Specialist, SAP Analyst, Corporate Recruiter, Service Desk Analyst, Transportation Coordinator, Sr. Product Manager, Inside Sales Supervisor, and Payroll Coordinator. Open roles at one of their 275 offices include the following: Inside Sales, Branch Managers, Production Supervisors, Territory Sales Managers, Drivers, and Yard Workers. This is just a snapshot of the roles available. With the merger, the company is creating lots of new positions.

Willscot Mobile Mini offers all full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package.

Follow the company on LinkedIn. Even if you don’t see a job fit, feel free to connect with Jordanne Ringwald and let her know if you apply. The company is growing so fast, a job for you may be “in the works” even as you reach out.

Go to their website for more information or to apply.

Liberty Mutual Insurance

John Walters, Senior Marketing Director

Liberty Mutual Insurance since 1912 has grown into the sixth largest global property and casualty insurer. They employ 50,000 people in 30 countries and on five continents. A Fortune 100 company, Liberty has seen steady growth.

The company has been recognized with numerous awards including Top Fifty Employers for 2021 by Equal Opportunity Magazine.

John dispels the myth the insurance industry is limited to call center and sales positions. If you’re launching a career, he urges you to consider this industry. “Tell me a background that doesn’t fit into the insurance industry,” he says. So many opportunities exist. “We need all kinds of backgrounds.” The opportunity to start and grow and advance in the industry is tremendous. The insurance industry also gives the chance to help people in times of trouble.

You need to apply to Liberty Insurance IF the following describe you:

  • Drive and enthusiasm
  • Experience in business development or network marketing
  • Strong communication skills
  • Ability to effectively multi-task
  • Confidence, flexibility and reliability
  • Goal oriented

The company offers all employees the opportunity to give back by providing a volunteer day each year. One of John’s favorite charities is Feed My Starving Children where he’s helped prepare food packages. Also the company will match fifty cents to every dollar an employee donates to a charity.

Liberty has created several groups within the company for employees to find a home within a home including a recently added group for employees who are also caregivers.

The company believes if they take care of employees, they, in turn, will take care of clients. Very goal oriented, Liberty wants employees to grow both professionally and personally. Toward that goal the company offers tuition reimbursement and community service.

While John is a hiring manager for sales, connect with him and he will get you to the right people regardless of your position of interest.

Visit their website for more information about the company– or positions available– or to apply.

WealthWave

Jason Wiseman, Senior Marketing Director

WealthWave, through its network of financial leaders, strives to shake up the financial industry. Their goal? To create a financially literate world. Made up of independent business owners, WealthWave professionals seek to educate the masses and make investing and financial success easier for regular families all over the world.

Concerned because he wanted to know more about financial planning and retirement, Jason Wiseman talked with his wife about their need to educate themselves for their own financial health. At one point he turned to his CPA and said, “What does it take to do what you do?”

After several years in corporate America, when Jason transitioned into his current role at WealthWave, it helped him ease into the field by working part-time–which is basically unheard of in the industry. Keep in mind, plenty of opportunities exist in this industry because many people are retiring, outpacing the numbers of career individuals needed.

Before he made the career transition, Jason and his family were doing fine income-wise, but he thought, like a lot of people, they needed more guidance regarding financial health–including retirement plans. A shocking 62% of people over the age of 55 are more afraid of outliving their money than of dying! WealthWave wants to educate people and help them navigate the world of finance so they might have more peace of mind, including when it comes to retirement.

WealthWave is different by design, seeking to assist the vast numbers of people who do not have millions to invest. The company has been featured recently on local news and 139 TV shows.

Opportunities in this industry abound, plus layoffs just don’t happen. Also, when the pandemic hit, WealthWave had already gone digital. They were ready.

Why Choose WealthWave?

  • Turnkey Solution
  • Licensed Profession
  • Ownership
  • Digital Marketing/Media
  • Start Part-time
  • No Lay Offs or Furloughs
  • Hands on Training and Mentorship
  • A long history of helping families

For more information or to apply, contact Jason Wiseman.

Resources & Closing

Director of Operations for Career Connectors, Sheila Coulam opened the meeting and later prepared the online audience for the breakout sessions. Executive Director of Career Connectors Jessica Pierce closed the first part of the meeting, thanked volunteers, and requested anyone interested in becoming a volunteer blogger to contact Sheila Coulam.

Click here to access a list of free resources available through the Career Connectors’ website, including the free online DISC assessment.

For more details about upcoming events, see the events section on the Career Connectors’ website. Check out Diversity Talks May 13, 2021, an online event to connect with award-winning companies known for their culture of inclusion, and Tempe Virtual Job Fair on May 18, 2021.

As a Career Connectors’ attendee, receive a free headshot to use on your LinkedIn profile during these online-only Career Connectors’ events. Go to this link for details and to sign up for locations throughout the Phoenix area. Gordon Murray Flash Photo makes this available. It’s certainly not required, but he accepts donations.

Parting Thought from Seth Godin: “Seizing new ground, making connections between people or ideas, working without a map–these are works of art, and if you do them, you are an artist, regardless if you wear a smock, use a computer, or work with others all day long.” Click on Seth’s name to see a thought-provoking video message for 2021.