Employment Partners Launch “Net2Work” To Support Job Seekers in Greater Des Moines!
Greater Des Moines, IA - Monday April 27, 2009
Area residents who have found themselves suddenly in the job market due to the recession now have a ready made network to help them navigate their way back to employment. Net2Work is a new, local initiative aimed at helping recently unemployed professionals network, research and ultimately connect with their next job opportunity or career. Net2Work is a collaborative effort of the Greater Des Moines Partnership, Iowa Employment Solutions, Iowa Workforce Development and Right Management with marketing support from 2 the Top – Career Advancement Strategies. The program’s purpose is to provide a support system where individuals can learn from each other and from local experts to stay on top of the changing job market so they can more quickly find the right opportunity and get back to work.
“The focus of the program is to provide some immediate support for those people who have been forced into unemployment through no fault of their own,” said Mary Bontrager, Executive Vice President with the Greater Des Moines Partnership. “These employees have invaluable skills, training and experience. They will find jobs somewhere – our hope is to help them find the opportunity they are looking for by remaining in Central Iowa.”
“Our communities’ workforce needs have been impacted in the short-term by the current economy, but there are still opportunities available here,’ said Mike Wilkinson of Iowa Employment Solutions. “We also know our long-term outlook calls for growth. By creating this support system in the short-term, we hope to be better positioned when the market turns around.”
“Net2Work gives job seekers a chance to explore a potential new career path in a safe environment with both experts and peers to counsel them,” said Connie McKeen of Right Management, a career transition service and human resources consultant. “Speakers will vary each time, so participants are welcome to attend as often as it is helpful in their job search.”
The first Net2Work program is scheduled for Monday, May 4, at 10 a.m. until noon at the Des Moines Botanical Center. The program will be scheduled every other Monday throughout the summer or until demand for the service subsides. The first five events are scheduled at the Des Moines Botanical Center. The location will be reviewed to best meet the needs of participants.
Participants are encouraged to bring their resumes or post them in advance at www.desmoinesmetro.com/employment. Job seekers can expect to learn the latest advice and tips on job searching, using social media, building a professional brand, mastering online application processes, as well as the latest market conditions and economic forecasts. There is no cost to attend. Reservations are not necessary, but are appreciated by calling (515) 286-4950 or emailing info@desmoinesmetro.com.
Questions from members of the media should be directed to Susan Ramsey at (515) 286-4954 or sramsey@desmoinesmetro.com.
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The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization serving Central Iowa. The Partnership, which includes regional Affiliate Chambers of Commerce from Dallas, Polk and Warren Counties, is united to drive economic growth: one voice, one mission, one region.
Iowa Workforce Development contributes to the economic security of Iowa’s workers, businesses and communities through a comprehensive statewide system of employment services, education and regulation of health, safety and employment laws. Right Management (www.right.com) is the talent and career management expert within Manpower, the global leader in employment services.
Right Management helps clients win in the changing world of work by designing and executing workforce solutions that align talent strategy with business strategy. Our expertise spans talent assessment, leadership development, organizational effectiveness, employee engagement and workforce transition. Right Management has a global network of more than 300 service locations in over 50 countries, serving 80% of the Fortune 500 and 50% of the Global 1000 companies.
For more information, contact:
Amanda Steward - Media/Marketing Director
Phone (515) 286-4947
asteward@desmoinesmetro.com
Tiffany Tauscheck
Phone (515) 669-3433
ttauscheck@desmoinescvb.com
