Southwest Job Network – SJN

SJN Interviewing Tips from the Pros-8/17/10

Jerry Kaster
SJN Marketing-Communications Committee

 Panelists Jim O’Hara (President-Kellen James), Jamie Mercado (Business Systems Analyst-American Express) and Carol Kratz (Senior Recruiter-Cox Communications) provided invaluable insights into every aspect of the interviewing process and bonus suggestions on resume structure and strategies to land the interview.

Topics included were the importance of researching the company, the five things every interviewer looks for, the importance of a “brand book”, changing industries, handling the salary question and more.  Audience members had the opportunity to submit written questions beforehand, during the meeting and ask questions during the last 15 minutes.

In case you missed the meeting, the 5 things every interviewer looks for are: 1) What value does the candidate bring?  2) What work ethic does the candidate have? 3) How quick can the candidate get up to speed?  4) Can the candidate meet or surpass job expectations?  5) Is he/she enthusiastic?

SJN has several valuable presentations coming up in September and October starting with Eric Walton, COO of Kryterion Corporation, presenting “The Power of Focus in Achieving Excellence” the evening of September 15^th and TV host of “Where the Jobs Are” Braham Resnik on the morning of September 21. Block out time on your calendar to network and hear from these experts.  More information is on the SJN website  events calendar.  

 In today’s economy, you need to use all available resources to be successful.  Join us to learn from the pros, practice your networking skills and meet people that may lead to your next opportunity.

Dear Friends and Supporters of SJN:

I shared the message below with job seekers this week.  I welcome your reading it.  

You can get involved with SJN in many ways.  Here’s an example:  spread the word of our work with job seekers who could use our support.  Another is to remember SJN when you hear of job postings.  We send them to our members without charge to the employer or recruiter.

MANY THANKS, Chris Vicari

Dear Members:

I spoke with two job seekers this week—both over 50—and they are discouraged because they believe they are not attractive to employers—because of age.

One also said that there are no jobs in Phoenix. Did I not disprove that this week with job postings from PayPayl, Charles Schwab and Jabil? We also know there is a hidden job market where jobs are found through networking.

My father used to say that you have to run your race like a horse with blinders on . . . do you get the image?  While the horse is aware he is in a race, he doesn’t know what the competition is doing. He sees the goal and the prize at the finish line—and his competition is of no importance.

Attitude is important for job transitioners, and there is no value in believing or feeling you are less qualified or valuable to the employer because of age, gray hair or wrinkles.

Part of what you will learn from SJN and Phoenix Workforce Connection is how to recognize your value and sell your assets during interviews, in your marketing materials. If you believe and can demonstrate to employers that you are the answer to their prayers, employers will want to know more about you.

It is a lot about packaging and marketing. Perhaps younger workers understand this more than us older ones. However, there are strategies you can learn.

Surround yourself with thoughts, images and people who are positive–and keep moving. Making friends and helping others through networking are critical strategies. Don’t under-estimate the power of the spirit! Reconnect with your sources of power—whether it’s religion, relationships, activities and healthy practices.

I’ll look for all of you at the SJN meeting on 8/17. Then we have a panel of professional recruiters and company representatives (Kellen James, Cox Communications, AMEX) discussing interviewing tips and answering related questions. You won’t want to miss it.

My best! 
Chris Vicari, President
SOUTHWEST JOB NETWORK (SJN)

Thursday, Sept 30 S JN FUNDRAISER AT CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN (two locations)

Bring your friends and family to California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) to help SJN. Dine in or carry out at one of two locations, any time, enjoy your choice of CPK’s wonderful pizzas, pastas, salads, sandwiches and more, and 20% of your bill will be donated to SJN. 

It’s easy and it’s fun, all you need to do is enjoy California Pizza Kitchen food and 20% of your order will be donated to Southwest Job Network!   Donation Form must be presented at time of order…copy and print…and bring with you for dine in, take-out or curb side orders. 

California Pizza Kitchen Locations:                             

10100 N. Scottsdale Road (SW corner Scottsdale & Gold Dust Roads)

3163 W. Chandler Blvd. (in the Village just south of Sears)

Times:                    

11:00 am – 10:00 pm  Both Locations

Thank you for your Partisipation!  SJN Board

July 13^th, 2010, Tue- EVENING OF NETWORKING

SOCIAL NETWORKING

As you probably know, most jobs are found via new (vs. established) acquaintances. The proverbial questions are which acquaintance and at what venue.

Join us on Tuesday, July 13 at 5-7 PM for an evening of establishing contacts at Gateway Community College, located at 106 N. 40^th Street, Phoenix (bordered by Van Buren and Washington Streets).  This Southwest Job Network (SJN) social networking event is open to job seekers, SJN alumni members, business supporters, the college community and the general public. Light refreshments will be provided at no charge. However, donations are greatly appreciated since we are an unfunded nonprofit organization helping members of our community.

We look forward to seeing you and encourage you to bring contacts you want to introduce to SJN. Please forward to friends and colleagues!! We encourage you to meet three people that you may be able to help and three people that may be able to help you. Do this and you will leave with renewed enthusiasm.

Light refreshments provided, no fee, donations appreciated. Park in the 40^th St lot and look for signs to the room at the main entrance

Meeting Details

Registration:                         http://social-networking-07132010.eventbrite.com

Meeting location:                GateWayCommunity College, 108 N. 40 Street,Phoenix,AZ85034

Times:                                    5pm – 7pmProgram Presentation

Fees:                                        Voluntary donations are appreciated to assist in funding ongoing operating costs for the Southwest Job Network.  Customary meeting donation is $5.