Dedra Perlmutter, Certified H.R. Professional

Cincinnati Career

Case study

After 13 years in Human Resources helping employees navigate the workplace, Dedra Perlmutter changed direction and decided to help job seekers become employees.

The Cincinnati Career Network is not a job placement agency. Clients attend small-group workshops

and get one-on-one counseling on any part of their job search. Dedra believes that Its essential to find

a go-to person you feel comfortable with and who will be honest and helpful.

Dedra stresses the power of networkingeverywhere you go! She emphasizes that networking is about giving and receiving and reminds job seekers to communicate their appreciation to the people they meet. She also promotes LinkedIn as an important tool for both job seekers and recruiters.

Dedra advises job seekers that the interview starts in the parking lot, continues with the receptionist, and doesnt end until you send your thank-you note. Dedras most heartfelt advice is to keep reminding yourself that Rejections are not personal! Seek out others who are going through the same thing and share your experiences, disappointments, and successes. As a free career center, the not-for-profit Cincinnati Career Network has seen an increase in clients since the economic downturn in 2008. Most communities have an agency like ours. Call the library or United Way to find the one near youand go! Dedra knows that every job search is unique and is constantly changing. Please, she says, find a counselor who can coach and guide you through the process.

Questions

1. What are the traits of an ideal go-to person who can give you advice about your job search?

2. Why do you think Dedra says that networking is about giving and receiving? What can you give the

people you network with?

3. Is there an agency like the free Cincinnati Career Network in your community? List the name,

address, phone number, and the name of a contact person.

4. What advice of Dedras can you use in your job search?