On Wednesday February 24th, 17 employers and career experts teamed up to give 33 local job-seekers an extra boost of encouragement and insight in their job hunts. At the Ann Arbor CIL’s career workshop, “8-Minute Advice,” job-seekers participated in a series of brief informational networking sessions to gain feedback and advice from volunteer advisors on topics such as resumes and cover letters, job search strategies, interview preparation, and networking.

“It is important for job seekers to have access to this type of career transition program. In addition to solid job seeking skills, it offers them confidence, networking, and hope,” said Lyn Hewitt, a volunteer guest advisor from FXI.

Greg Meier, a job-seeker, spoke highly of the event. “By having individuals present from human resources, I received many answers to questions I’ve always wanted to ask.” Greg, who has worked in information and technology management for 20 years, has been unemployed for the last 14 months, and is looking to transition into the area of adult training in a non-profit setting. He also has a hearing-impairment. Greg stated, “what impressed me is I was able to even ask simple questions. Questions about my appearance, the firmness of my handshake, and even advisors’ perceptions of me after the interview.”

Job-seeker Maureen Lanseur added, “usually, as job seekers, we ask ourselves questions AFTER an interview. It’s great to have an opportunity to be ahead of the curve.”

At the conclusion of the event, guest advisors provided parting words of wisdom for the group of job-seekers. John Luther, career expert from the University of Michigan’s School of Art and Design, offered, “finding a job is about being in the right place at the right time. In order to be in the right place at the right time, you have to show up. Be persistent. The more you do, the more likely you are to find a job.”

“For this event, we really wanted our guest advisors to be honest with people,” stated Lisa Mangigian, Ann Arbor CIL Talent Connector, who ran the event. “The idea was to give people candid feedback they don’t always get out in the job-search. The biggest take-away message from the employers was to be confident! Confidence sells and can make a big impact on your success.”

Volunteer advisors at the event represented following local businesses: Allegra Printing, Aspect Consulting, Barton Consulting, DUCTZ, FXI, People Focused LLC, and TAC Worldwide.

Career Experts were also on-hand from ETCS/Michigan Works!, Eastern Michigan University, Washtenaw Community College, and the University of Michigan’s Schools of Law, Business, and Art and Design. Ann Arbor SPARK was also a partner in this event, helping to publicize the event with job-seekers.

The Ann Arbor CIL is a community enrichment, learning, and advocacy center for individuals with disabilities and serious health conditions. Its career workshops are open to people with and without disabilities.