Job seekers request help . . .

Hello, I’m Chris Vicari, first time contributor to this site.  Along with Bill Austin and other business leaders in the Phoenix area, I lead Scottsdale Job Network (SJN), a community service group supporting the unemployed and underemployed.  We offer networking and career transition workshops.

Recently, I’ve been reading new member registrations to SJN and focusing on member responses to the question: “How can we help you in your job search?”

Several surprised me, for example, “notify me via email of openings” . . . “find a job for me”. . . . “send me job leads in my field.”  At first read, I assumed these were expressions of frustration as well as need.  They present an opportunity to clarify how SJN helps job seekers.

Networking among members can lead to individuals exchanging leads and contacts.  All SJN members who join the Yahoo Group can post information about job openings.  When a job lead is listed that interests a member, the member needs to respond directly to the posting.   

Our policy:  Scottsdale Job Network (SJN) is a non-profit community group of business leaders and volunteers. SJN provides education in the job search process and all attendees have the opportunity to meet and work with people who offer support and guidance during employment transition. We are not a job placement forum, and we do not match candidates to openings nor do we send resumes to employers or recruiters. There is no guarantee of employment either directly through this group or as a result of association with SJN.

These needs were also identified by many new members:

Need interview training

Want help to identify my passion

Provide best answers for interview trouble spots

Provide recruiter referrals

Help with resume reviews

Pro-active steps members can take:

• Research information available on the SJN website
• Attend all SJN workshops on the Job Search Process (schedule on SJN website Events Calendar)
• Attend SJN workshop on Exploring Your Passion when offered
• See Recruiter page on SJN website for a list of supporters of this group.
• See Resume reviewers who are available at all SJN meetings for a resume critique.
• Research resources of Phoenix Workforce Connection and Maricopa Workforce Connection which offer free career assessments and counseling.

When all we offer does not suffice, some members hire career coach professionals to support their career transition decisions.

At SJN, you will find caring volunteers.  We love helping our neighbors and will do all we can to offer support and direction.  If you have any questions about expectations from the group in this regard, please let me know. 

Lots of luck and good wishes finding your next job!

Christine Vicari, Founder & Ex. Director
Scottsdale Job Network - SJN
P.O. Box 25674
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Voice mail: (480) 513-1491
Web: http://www.scottsdalejobnet.com/

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