There's a brand new LinkedIn Group for job seekers and employers and recruiters who work in or have job opportunities in Polk County. For more information and to join see below.

Join my LinkedIn Group:

http://www.linkedin.com/e/gis/1086077

ProNet Polk County connects the unemployed and underemployed professionals with others for networking. It's the purpose of this newly formed group to have members post resumes for employers to view. We also welcome discussions about job search techniques, tips, leads, and employment opportunities. We encourage area employers and recruiters to post their job leads on the discussion board and contact members with job possibilities.

Regards,

Livia Wright

Hello:

This message is probably more geared to our 3rd party members however, corporate recruiters can feel free to chime in too.

I am sure we are all experiencing a reduction in reqs/job orders lately. I've heard of some recruiting firms that have layed off recruiters and sales reps recently. On the flip side I have heard of a few firms that have added some sales reps. My firm did exactly that earlier this week.

Prior to 2008 I had experienced two (2) economic downturns in my 20 years in recruiting, so I guess this is now my 3rd. One thing I can share with you from personal experience is that it is cyclical. It will get better.

My firm specializes in IT recruitment & placement which in general has had a decline in the overall number of job orders compared to previous months. But, we continue to push ahead, market our services and pick up new orders daily. Sure some are "purple squirrel" requirements, others are "wish lists" but some are actually exciting to work on.

I believe the demand for 3rd party recruiting services will continue however, we all need to be prepared to work harder (and smarter) than ever before. Now is not the time to fret and whine. It's survival of the fittest. The firms that focus on marketing, offering value added services, and continue to build and nurture a strong candidate pipeline will survive and possibly thrive. Our client companies are relying on us to source and recruit top "passive" talent now more than ever AND to deliver candidates they cannot get off of the major job boards.

I was wondering if there are specific disciplines or specialty areas seeing a stronger demand for talent. If so, please speak up. If you are having success doing something different it would be great to share it with others.

Thanks,

Tom Byrne, Group Moderator

Hello Gang,

I was approached recently by Natalie Smith of Apartment Express to see if there was any interest in scheduling a Recruiters networking happy hour. She told me that Apartment Express will sponsor food and drinks (within reason I am sure).

Please chime in if you have any interest. We can coordinate a date, time and place. I am thinking sometime in April or May at the latest.

Regards,

Tom Byrne

Hello everyone,

It is approaching 3 months since the last Networking Activity - at Bar Louie's in the International Mall. At that time - people asked when the next one would happen.

The time has come - Please look at your calendars, send us suggested dates in August and even a possible location. In case Bar Louie was not the right place to socialize.

As before - this is a informal social gathering for the Tampa Bay Area Recruiters. It is open to anyone, please note - we are just building contacts and relationships - not signig deals.

Based upon availability of recruiters, I will communicate the date and location of choice. I will need assistance this time coordinating the reservation, name tags, etc. Any volunteers?

If there are any other suggestions, please let me know. This is completely flexible and just the first step.

Thanks.

Patrick

A friend of mine is looking to start a career in government planning. Does anyone know of recruiters that specialize in government openings that work in Southwest Florida?

Thanks, Selena Jaudon Belcan

Hello everyone,

I guess I will take the first step - How about an informal social gathering for the Tampa Bay Area Recruiters.

The dates I have selected are May 14th or May 24th. The time will be 6pm @ Bar Louie (International Mall).

Based upon availability of recruiters, I will communicate the date. I will coordinate with the Bar to section off a part of the location.

Helpers would be appreciated. So, please respond directly to me @ ERE and I will start to tally responses.

If there are any other suggestions, please let me know. This is completely flexible and just the first step.

Thanks.

Patrick

Hello all! I'm new to the Tampa area and am doing some networking as I search for the right career opportunity. I'm searching on my own but am also interested in working with reputable recruiters who might have an inside connection with local organizations. Can anyone recommend a recruiter or firm that successfully places HR and Recruiting Professionals?

Thanks for the assistance!