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SALT LAKE CITY -- As the expensive holiday season rolls on, many unemployed people really feel the pressure to find work. Many professionals have turned to job placement programs, like the one offered at the LDS Business College.
There are lots of people looking for work. Some have advanced degrees, and most were making decent money at their last job. Steve Asay, director of Career Services at LDS Business College, says, "We've had presidents and vice presidents, lots and lots of middle managers."
Gerry Hassell was with a large retail company for close to 16 years. He says, "I was the director of operations in a large company, and they restructured back in February, and they eliminated my position."
"I was in the business for 25 years and with this specific company for 20 years," Orin Allen says. He worked his way up as an insurance claims manager. He was let go in July and knows he'll have to make sacrifices to get a job.
They came to the LDS Business College at 95 N. 300 West for help. Every week, on average, 130 people network, learn new interview skills and build better resumes.
To get into the program, all you have to do is show up, and they'll accept anyone of any faith. Hassell says, "I'm lucky I found this networking group. I've been able to network and talk to and associate with other people who are in the same situation."
"There's no question you have to be flexible," Allen says. "You have to be prepared to make a career shift.
The director of career services says flexibility is key, along with knowing your strengths and skills. Asay says, "It's not where they've been and it's not their title, it's who they are. Then suddenly that opens up a lot of doors for them."
The doors swung open for Nathan Carver man. He just got a job in health care. He says. "The principles being taught here really do work. I would love to help anybody out. Feel free to contact me. I'm starting next week." And in this economy, getting a job is certainly worth cheering for.
The director says they've been successful in getting people jobs within 45 days. For more information on the job placement program, CLICK HERE.
E-mail: ngonzales@ksl.com
