February 4, 2009

Parish offers Job Network program to those seeking work

By John Gleason

As the economy shrinks and more Americans find themselves out of a job, one parish has stepped in to help those actively seeking employment.

Since 2001 the Job Network program at St. Frances Cabrini Parish in Littleton has helped thousands face the job market with confidence. Active for several years, the program—which consists of monthly, one-day workshops that help job seekers with resume and interviewing skills—was stopped for a short time when the need diminished. It was resurrected about a year ago due to growing unemployment.

Karen Krum is director of Community Life and Outreach at the parish. She said that the workshops are open to anyone who wants to brush up on their job hunting skills.

“We have people who are out of work, or are afraid their company will be downsizing soon and others who simply aren’t happy in their job and want to explore other avenues,” she said.  “It’s a great opportunity for people in tough times to reinvent themselves, which is what it’s really all about.”

The one-day workshops are conducted by Bob Heisser, managing partner of the Sequel Group, an executive search firm.  The idea for the workshops came about when Heisser was thinking of ways he could give back to the community.

“There were some people at the parish who told me I could teach people about resumes and how to interview, that I should put together some sort of ministry,” he said. 

“Shortly thereafter I read an announcement in the church bulletin asking if anyone was interested in organizing a job network.  That was the beginning.”

During the workshop people learn how to write resumes that jump off the page at perspective employers. They learn how to interview, how to write cover letters and how to make themselves stand out in a crowded field of job hunters. The key, according to Heisser, is marketing.

“Most people don’t know how to market themselves,” he said.  “Many will post their resume on monster.com and wait for a company to call.  That’s not going to happen.
The Internet will not find a job for them.”

A resume must be clear, concise and focused on accomplishments, said Heisser, adding that a strong resume is key to landing an interview.

Another important tactic for the job seeker is networking—making contacts at the place you want to work. 

“Instead of just putting out a lot of resumes, we tell people to make a list of the companies they want to work for,” Heisser said.  “Then organize a call plan; telephone a manager and introduce yourself.  We show people how they can use networking and direct approaches to companies; how to meet the hiring managers, get in for an interview and separate themselves from the others.”

For Kevin Perrott, a sharp resume and cover letter have proven to be important tools in his job search.  They are not the only benefits he reaped from the workshop.

“There’s a coaching aspect that teaches you to not sell yourself short,” he said.  “Each of us has commodities that employers want.  Bob brings that out in everyone who attends the workshop.”

It is estimated that since its inception, more than 1,600 people have participated in the Job Network workshops. St. Frances Cabrini pastor Father Sean McGrath sees the ministry as a great success, which he credits to Heisser and his dedication.

“We’re just honored to have this ministry at St. Frances Cabrini,” Father McGrath said.  “Bob is utilizing his gifts, talents and resources and truly helping people in the Front Range.”

Some who have participated in the workshop have taken what they learned and found a job or a new career.  Others have returned to the class to hone their skills.  Heisser maintains that if people come with an open mind, they can be successful; it’s simply a matter of trying.

“I always say that the Holy Spirit will guide you, but you have to get up and do it!  That’s the basis of the workshop,” he said.

The next Job Network workshop will be held 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Feb. 12 at St. Frances Cabrini Church, 6673 W. Chatfield in Littleton.  The workshop is free. For more information, call Krum at 303-953-7788.