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HVBF Monthly Meeting - Human Resources
Roundtable Host: Point Breeze Credit Union Attending: Joe Biglin, Breakaway Games Judy Cross of host Point Breeze Credit Union welcomed a great turnout for the discussion on Recruiting. Chairwoman Susan Fine had a schedule conflict this morning with the Chesapeake Human Resources spring conference. The conflict claimed five members who would have been with us this morning. Judy introduced Carol Brooks, Business Services Coordinator for the Baltimore County Office of Employment and Training. The department consisting of Business Services, Job Seeker Services and Youth Services is an unappreciated asset for County businesses. Employers should be aware of the valuable services offered. The department assists with human resource issues in filling vacant positions, provides assistance in downsizing and promotes workplace training and education. Job seekers are assisted through career development, career placement and career training. Carol detailed each service and answered questions from those attending. The Roundtable continued with input from members. The economy has affected the quality and quantity of personnel inventory. Long-term employees of large companies are leaving as an unintended consequence of downsizing because they are tired of the process and “want out”. This creates an unforeseen difficulty for employers. The Internet is not a viable source for recruiters or job seekers. Contacting companies that are downsizing is a productive recruiting tool when you make them aware of your needs. Job seekers should be more traditional in their dress at an interview. Business casual does not make the best impression. Keep the interview positive by refraining from rehashing the events of a layoff. Bitterness over a layoff is not an impression to leave. Recruiters are looking for people that are gainfully employed over those who are unemployed. Baltimore is not competitive with the District of Columbia in wages. Video recording by recruiting companies will allow a job seeker to see how they appear to a prospective employer. Carol was asked if the department competed with recruiters. The department trains client job seekers to contact prospective employers directly. They prepare the job seeker with training. The department works with Community Colleges and the Department of Aging to bring senior job seekers and employers together. Referral bonuses to present employees are an effective recruiting tool. Job Fairs are an excellent venue to bring prospective employers and employees together. Steve O’Connor of TESST College of Technology announced a coming job fair. Information about it is attached. For more information about how the Department of Employment & Training can help you, contact Carol at 410-887-3501 or email at cbrooks@co.ba.md.us. |