Can you all believe that summer is officially about to come to end?  I guess the saying is true, time waits for no one and I hope your “time” this summer was spent networking and making the important contacts you will need!

I have spent the past several weeks speaking to employers across the Tampa Bay region in the hopes of bringing you insight as to what employers are looking for in candidates, how important it is to have focus in your job search, and, overall, how does a candidate separate them self from the hundreds of other resumes that are on HR’s desk.

These questions were answered along with many others, when I met with the Regional Human Resources Director of MetroPCS, a new employer on the scene here in Tampa.

While it was apparent that like many other employers, MetroPCS is always searching for self-motivated and passionate candidates with an exceptional commitment to customer service, one attribute was common among the many other employers I’ve spoken to….job seekers must have a goal! 

Cheryl Brown, PHR, is the Regional Human Resource Manager for MetroPCS and she tells me that when an individual comes to one of their retail stores or regional offices looking for an opportunity, those who have done their research, have a specific goal set for themselves, and are passionate about what they are looking for, stand out against other candidates who just drop off resumes.  Cheryl says that candidates with integrity, and who are readily able to “bring value to the table,” really stand out to MetroPCS! 

“Networking is highly regarded at MetroPCS and I encourage candidates to do their research.  Have your resume prepared, reach out to your network, and don’t be shy,” says Cheryl.  Interestingly enough, Cheryl found her position through networking channels locally and encourages candidates to do the same.  You can learn more about opportunities at MetroPCS by visiting their website at http://www.metropcs.com.

All of the soft skills that Cheryl mentioned are skills that I speak of frequently in this column, and at my networking workshops. These are skills you already have, so be sure to use them.

When you are passionate about your plan and share that passion with potential employers the doors will always open for you. 

Between now and the end of the year, I’ll be highlighting networking events that are happening across the Tampa Bay area.  Remember that attending different networking groups, ones that are outside your “comfort zone,” can often lead to making the contact that changes everything! 

It’s time to re-engage yourself after a summer hiatus and get back into networking and, once again, look out for number one….YOU!  Use your passion for what you do best to open the door to that next great opportunity! 

Monthly Networking Events in the Tampa Bay Area:

Transitioning Professionals of Tampa Bay August 30th, (Every Thursday) RSVP:  http://www.TBTampaBay.Net

Pinellas Professional Network, August 9th & 16th, RSVP: 

Suncoast Human Resources, September 13th, RSVP:  http://www.suncoasthr.org

HR Tampa, September 27th, RSVP:  http://www.hrtampa.org

Sales and Marketing Executives of Tampa Bay, September 21st, RSVP:  http://www.smei.org

Bay Area Manufacturers Association, September 21st, RSVP: http://www.bama-fl.org

Tampa Bay Workforce Alliance Networking Meetings, RSVP:  http://www.workforcetampa.org

Tampa Chamber of Commerce’s Business After Hours, September 21st, RSVP: http://www.tampachamber.com