On Thursday, February 14, 2013 there were 24 attendees at our early morning networking event at Pittsford Farms Dairy (7:15-9:00). GV ASTD Board Vice President Chrystie Barker opened the event and welcomed everyone. Jennifer Benson, former Board Member, then began the facilitated discussion. First, she welcomed everyone and then invited participants to introduce themselves. After introductions, Jennifer asked participants to engage in discussion and offer up some topics of interest related to the training industry regarding strengths, challenges/obstacles, strategy, and how GV ASTD might help.
The discussion that followed was wide-ranging, and featured what was most on their minds of those present:
- The importance of recruiters doing a good job of pre-screening to bring qualified applicants to small businesses.
- For job applicants, the importance of talking to real people (not just the company website) to find a position.
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- Networking is important.
- Personal relationships are important.
- Seeking outside the box means to obtain connections within.
- A couple of participants suggested that for people in transition, it might be a good idea to have a specific Special Interest Group (SIG) related to job search, hiring, recruiting, interviewing, etc.
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- Also discussed to perhaps involve not only GV ASTD, but also SHRM and NHRA.
- We were reminded that each of us is our own "small business" in the job search process. Doing one's homework and targeting particular employers was suggested as an important strategy.
- A potential hiring manager observed that it is sometimes difficult to convince management to bring on a new staff member when internal candidates are available (and perhaps not as well qualified).
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- The manager found that a good strategy is to bring on contractors to demonstrate that having skill and ability in training design and development is important (not just subject matter expertise).
- Another suggestion to jobseekers was to research what current skills and abilities are needed (e.g., software expertise) and get some preliminary training in it
- Addressed need for TIPS AND TRICKS section of GV ASTD website…perhaps a blog or WIKI where people can add information
- Discussed leveraging the GV ASTD website as a resource where there could be a catalog option to add “talents” (e.g. voice over artist, HR training, etc). Not necessarily advertising, but more as a reference.
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- Discussed that it is important to have a forum for exchange of creative ideas regarding what others are doing. Especially important when you are a resource of ONE in your organization.
- The CNY chapter of GV ASTD was suggested as an organization that does a good job of connecting its members regarding best practices.
Thanks to GV ASTD member Mary Harris for writing this event summary!