Gay Help Wanted: Opportunities with Sage Hospitality

Says WERQ columnist Simon O'Mahony, "As a result of our continued growth and success we have a number of new and exciting opportunities available with Sage Hospitality and Sage Restaurant Group."

Advertiser Testimonial: Simon O'Mahony for Zolarium Tanning Studio

"There are always things that I always look for when eating out, going for drinks, buying a coffee, or grabbing lunch. 

On top of my list is excellent customer service. Excellent customer service is the bones to any business but Zolarium Tanning Studio goes above that … excellent, it seems, is not enough, because every single time I go to Zolarium the service is outstanding. 

There are several tanning salons in the Metro area, some small, some large chains, but Zolarium beats them hands down when it comes to two things. Outstanding customer service and exceptional cleanliness.  

From friendly, knowledgeable staff, convenient downtown location, to cleanliness, and efficient service,  Zolarium ranks, in my opinion, as the best in town. You can walk into the salon, be greeted by name, very seldom have to wait for a bed, be guaranteed absolute cleanliness, top notch equipment, and a big smile and a thank you when leaving. It’s amazing! 

This partnered with competitive pricing and great business hours, makes Zolarium the best in town. I also love that the owners and staff are so involved in the community and generously give back to so many worthy causes. I recommend Zolarium and wish them continued success," Simon O'Mahony, Manager of Talent Acquisition at Sage Hospitality.

WERQ! Career Advice for Gay Men

Consider it Your Autobiography and NOT Your Resume - Make it a Best Seller!

By Simon O'Mahony

Most people dread the idea of having to write a resume. You have very limited opportunity to capture and hold a reader’s attention, so your resume has to be both informative but also compelling so as you stand out from your competition. The best examples of both informative and compelling resumes are made up of five key components. Follow these while writing your one page autobiography and you are guaranteed to have a resume that will grab readers’ attention and compel them to take a second look.

*The Beginning
The ‘Objective’ should not be generic and boring. This is your opportunity to shine. Consider it a quick summary of you. Use this opportunity to sell yourself using dynamic and action oriented words. Include your major accomplishments, education, and your personal traits. It’s all about you!

*List your Accomplishments
What are your major accomplishments? What are the highlights of your career? Once you determine these, it is time to make them shine. Include 5 or 6 bullet points of your top professional achievements. Don’t bore people with a job description but compel them with your achievements and quantify when possible, e.g. increased sales by 24% in 2012.

*Highlight your relevant areas of expertise
If responding to an ad, carefully examine what the employer is looking for, and try to determine what the hiring manager will be looking for as they review resumes. You should tailor your resume for every position you are applying to.

*Highlight your academic career
This is especially important if you are a recent graduate. Include any relevant coursework, internship/externship experience, volunteer experience, awards etc.

*Outline your work experience
In the sections that outlined your professional accomplishments and areas of expertise, you detailed the reasons why you're a great fit for the position. In this section, you'll provide the "who, when, and where" of your past experience. You can order this section chronologically, or sort past jobs by category -- whichever method best emphasizes your strengths.

Again, think of it as your autobiography. Go shine, and talk about YOU!

Originally from Dublin, Ireland, Simon is responsible for hiring management positions for Sage Hospitality nationwide and for their corporate office in downtown Denver. He is also involved in overall recruiting initiatives including college recruiting programs, diversity initiatives, and employer branding. Simon works with several local and nationwide agencies, colleges, universities, in order to build a network and pipeline of candidates. In 2009 he was the recipient of the Sage Innovation Award as a result of his use of social media networking to enhance the recruiting process.

When he is not recruiting, (Recruiters are always working!) Simon enjoys Colorado’s beautiful outdoors. He also has a passion for photography and while it sounds like a cliché he loves meeting new people (which is why he probably loves recruiting!). Simon is a supporter of several non-profit organizations in Denver. 
 

Simon can be reached at Simon.OMahony@SageHospitality.com.

Bearracuda & MileHighGayGuy: The Biggest Bear Party and The Best Gay Blog In Denver!

Click here to like the new Bearracuda Worldwide page on Facebook and join the Bearracuda Denver email list by clicking here.

Voted "Best Club for Queer Men" in 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 by the San Francisco Bay Guardian and sponsored by SCRUFF and MileHighGayGuy, Bearracuda is the largest attended bear dance party in the U.S. - now in 27 cities across the world, with regular parties in San Francisco, Seattle & Portland + one-offs in NYC, Amsterdam, Austin, Atlanta & Sydney. 

Photo by Simon O'Mahony Photography.

A Birthday Wish for Matthew Shepard

By Simon O'Mahony

Tomorrow, December 1st 2012, would have been Matt’s 36th birthday. In honor of his life, his legacy, and the wonderful work of the Matthew Shepard Foundation I would like to do something special to remember and celebrate Matt. 

My idea is quite simple. I ask that this weekend, you snap a photo of yourself wearing your Erase Hate Wristband and if you choose to hold a birthday wish, or a message of hope, please include it in the photo. 

You can post it directly to the Erase Hate Photo Campaign for the Matthew Shepard Foundation Facebook page. I will collect all photos and compile a special video of the images. This powerful act will take less than a minute out of your weekend but the impact, I hope, will be quite powerful. 

Remember….”one picture is worth a thousand words.”

Happy Birthday to Matt! I look forward to seeing your pictures, and thank you.

DJ Brent for the Erase Hate Photo Campaign

Not since the chocolate got in the peanut butter have there been two great tastes that taste quite as great together as DJ Brent and the Erase Hate Photo Campaign for the Matthew Shepard Foundation. 

By purchasing an Erase Hate wristband (three for $10) and snapping (and posting) a photo of yourself wearing the band, you support the Erase Hate Photo Campaign benefiting the Matthew Shepard Foundation. 

Says DJ Brent, "I support the Erase Hate Photo Campaign and I hope that you will do the same."

Mustachio Bashio to Benefit the Matthew Shepard Erase Hate Photo Campaign

By Simon O'Mahony

As I continue to grow my Erase Hate Photo Campaign  I wanted to remind you of our event this coming Saturday at Fado Irish Pub and Restaurant.

Fado Denver has kindly offered to donate a portion of the proceeds from their annual “Mustachio Bashio” to the Matthew Shepard Foundation and PFLAG Denver. I will be selling Erase Hate Wristbands for $5 on Saturday night and giving you the opportunity to participate in the Erase Hate Photo Campaign. As an added bonus, everytime you purchase a wristband on Saturday night you will be entered into a drawing to win a “Crazy in Love” Package from the Curtis – a Doubletree Hotel, Denver, CO. This fun package includes one night stay, rose petal turndown, a Twister board set up in room, a bottle of wine, valet parking and Doubletree breakfast for two!

If you are free on Saturday please swing by for a pint, some food, dance with “That 80’s Band” and have your picture taken for the campaign!

Tell your friends! It promises to be a fun time supporting some great causes!

Erase Hate Photo Campaign Benefit for Matthew Shepard Foundation and PFLAG!

Mark your calendars and tell your friends about the Erase Hate Photo Campaign's November 17th benefit for the Matthew Shepard Foundation and PFLAG. 

The event takes place at Fado Irish Pub and the Erase Hate Photo Campaign's own Simon O'Mahony will be on hand selling wristbands and taking pictures all night long!  

WERQ! Career Advice for Gay Men

Seven Ways to Blow your Job Interview

By Simon O'Mahony

Congratulations, you have landed a job interview, and with some serious competition in the job market, you don’t want to blow it. There are a lot of great things you should do and ask in a job interview, but more importantly there are a lot of things you should not do, and something’s you should avoid all together. Here are a few things that make me itch when interviewing people.

1.     A loose handshake. It is an immediate turn off. You should always greet your interviewer with a good firm handshake and good eye contact. A loose handshake shows lack of confidence and passion.

2.     Slouching. Sit up straight in your chair. Slouching shows lack of interest and lack of confidence. Good posture is a direct expression of confidence and shows you will not be intimidated by an interviewer.

3.     Nervous habits. We all have them. However, you need to make a point of abolishing them during your interview. They become a major distraction to the point where an interviewer may spend more time watching you twitch rather than listening to what you are saying.

4.     The Debbie Downer. The interviewer will be trying to determine if you will be a good culture fit, fit well with the team, and overall be a fun and positive person to work with. Avoid negative comments and a pessimistic attitude as people generally want to surround themselves with upbeat, positive people.

5.     Saying NO when you are asked if you have any questions. This is simple. Saying "no" shows complete lack of interest in the company and the position. Having questions prepared shows you are interested, inquisitive, and generally are passionate about the company and the position.

6.     The Chatty Cathy.  Talking a mile-a-minute is an annoyance and a hindrance. The interviewer should not have to try to control the conversation to the point it becomes a distraction. Allow the interviewer to get his or her word in, and if you notice you are rambling, take a deep breath and shorten your answers and keep them relevant.

7.     No Resume. You probably have applied online and sent your resume to a recruiter, however always, always, bring a few printed resumes with you.

Originally from Dublin, Ireland, Simon is responsible for hiring management positions for Sage Hospitality nationwide and for their corporate office in downtown Denver. He is also involved in overall recruiting initiatives including college recruiting programs, diversity initiatives, and employer branding. Simon works with several local and nationwide agencies, colleges, universities, in order to build a network and pipeline of candidates. In 2009 he was the recipient of the Sage Innovation Award as a result of his use of social media networking to enhance the recruiting process.

When he is not recruiting, (Recruiters are always working!) Simon enjoys Colorado’s beautiful outdoors. He also has a passion for photography and while it sounds like a cliché he loves meeting new people (which is why he probably loves recruiting!). Simon is a supporter of several non-profit organizations in Denver.

Simon can be reached at Simon.OMahony@SageHospitality.com.

WERQ: Career Advice for Gay Men

By Simon O'Mahony

Sage Hospitality is currently hiring for two positions:

Government Sales Manager - Holiday Inn Denver East/Stapleton 

From an 11-story atrium to magnificent views of the Rockies and city skyline, the Holiday Inn Denver East - Stapleton hotel has unique features you can't find at other hotels. Located off I-70 in Denver, Colorado, we're just minutes from downtown and within walking distance of restaurants and shops.

Boasting more than 20,000 sq ft of flexible meeting space, our event facilities are ideal for corporate and social gatherings. We also offer a Business Center, as well as free Wi-Fi access. Business travelers are pleased to know that corporate regional facilities like United Airlines Training Center, FBI, Target, Nestle and Xerox are close to the hotel's address in east Denver.

Director of Sales and Marketing - Embassy Suites Denver ($2000 referral bonus available!)

Have you been dreaming of working at a truly amazing hotel? Look no further! The AWARD WINNING Embassy Suites Denver-Downtown/Convention Center is the FLAGSHIP PROPERTY for the entire brand not to mention it is environmentally forward thinking and LEED Certified. 

The property is beyond the expected with truly leading edge technology, meeting space and a full service type food and beverage operation. Did we mention the WATERFALL in the lobby? When we say contemporary we mean it and it’s done in the spirit of genuine Colorado design. Hotel of the year, #1 in Trip Advisor…You must see and experience the difference and then you will know this is no ordinary property.

Managed by Sage Hospitality, our Full Service Division enriches the lives of the individuals we serve and forges transformation in all its ventures. If you are looking to build meaningful partnerships and add unexpected value to the businesses with which we are entrusted, we would love to hear from you! 

Simon O’Mahony, originally from Dublin, Ireland, was personally recruited by Sage Hospitality and joined the organization as a Corporate Recruiter in 2006. In 2009, Simon was promoted into the role of Talent Acquisition Manager for Sage Hospitality and Sage Restaurant Group. Simon is responsible for hiring management positions for Sage Hospitality nationwide and for their corporate office in downtown Denver. He is also involved in overall recruiting initiatives including college recruiting programs, diversity initiatives, and employer branding. Simon works with several local and nationwide agencies, colleges, universities, in order to build a network and pipeline of candidates. In 2009 he was the recipient of the Sage Innovation Award as a result of his use of social media networking to enhance the recruiting process.

When he is not recruiting, (Recruiters are always working!) Simon enjoys Colorado’s beautiful outdoors. He also has a passion for photography and while it sounds like a cliché he loves meeting new people (which is why he probably loves recruiting!). Simon is a supporter of several non-profit organizations in Denver.

Simon can be reached at Simon.OMahony@SageHospitality.com.

WERQ! Career Advice for Gay Men

Ask This, Not That…..

By Simon O'Mahony

The one question you are guaranteed to be asked at every single interview is “Do you have any questions to ask me?"

Never say "No."

When asked what questions you have, there is no excuse not to be prepared. Having a list of questions prepared in your head is fine, but after a long interview you will be exhausted and you run the risk of forgetting your questions. Having a list of questions with you will eliminate the risk of forgetting but more importantly will show the interviewer that you are prepared, professional, and taking the job interview seriously.

The best way to answer the question is with a “Yes, I prepared some questions for you. Do you mind if I refer to them now?” This response is respectful and it shows that you know how to plan and prepare.

Answering the question with a simple “No” tells the interviewer that you are not really interested in the job.  A huge turnoff!

Answering the question with a list of “inappropriate” questions is a big mistake. As a recruiter this is one of my biggest pet peeves. It always leaves the impression that you are more interested in what’s in it for me, rather than wanting to learn more. Some of these questions are important, e.g. salary and benefits, but there will be other opportunities and a more appropriate time to ask these questions.

Here are a few questions you should stay clear of:

• How often do you get paid here?
• Can I work from home?
• What kind of benefits other than medical, etc... do you offer?
• Can I work flexible hours?
• So what exactly does this company do?
• So, did I get the job?
• When I take time off for vacation?
• Will I have to do a drug test?

The BEST question to end an interview with is: “So based on our conversation today, do you have any concerns that I could address which would prevent me from moving on in the process?” It leaves the interviewer with a great impression and allows you to address any concerns without giving the interviewer time to ponder and think on any concerns.

Simon O’Mahony, originally from Dublin, Ireland, was personally recruited by Sage Hospitality and joined the organization as a Corporate Recruiter in 2006. In 2009, Simon was promoted into the role of Talent Acquisition Manager for Sage Hospitality and Sage Restaurant Group. Simon is responsible for hiring management positions for Sage Hospitality nationwide and for their corporate office in downtown Denver. He is also involved in overall recruiting initiatives including college recruiting programs, diversity initiatives, and employer branding. Simon works with several local and nationwide agencies, colleges, universities, in order to build a network and pipeline of candidates. In 2009 he was the recipient of the Sage Innovation Award as a result of his use of social media networking to enhance the recruiting process.

When he is not recruiting, (Recruiters are always working!) Simon enjoys Colorado’s beautiful outdoors. He also has a passion for photography and while it sounds like a cliché he loves meeting new people (which is why he probably loves recruiting!). Simon is a supporter of several non-profit organizations in Denver.

Simon can be reached at Simon.OMahony@SageHospitality.com.

WERQ! Career Advice for Gay Men

By Simon O'Mahony

Refer a dynamic candidate for the Director of Sales and Marketing at the soon-to-be Doubletree by Hilton Boston North Shore property and you can receive a $5000 cash referral if they are hired!

Click here for more information.

Spread the word and make some cash!

Simon O’Mahony, originally from Dublin, Ireland, was personally recruited by Sage Hospitality and joined the organization as a Corporate Recruiter in 2006. In 2009, Simon was promoted into the role of Talent Acquisition Manager for Sage Hospitality and Sage Restaurant Group. Simon is responsible for hiring management positions for Sage Hospitality nationwide and for their corporate office in downtown Denver. He is also involved in overall recruiting initiatives including college recruiting programs, diversity initiatives, and employer branding. Simon works with several local and nationwide agencies, colleges, universities, in order to build a network and pipeline of candidates. In 2009 he was the recipient of the Sage Innovation Award as a result of his use of social media networking to enhance the recruiting process.

When he is not recruiting, (Recruiters are always working!) Simon enjoys Colorado’s beautiful outdoors. He also has a passion for photography and while it sounds like a cliché he loves meeting new people (which is why he probably loves recruiting!). Simon is a supporter of several non-profit organizations in Denver.

Simon can be reached at Simon.OMahony@SageHospitality.com.

The Denver PrideFest 2012 Photo Album

Images By Simon O'Mahony

You are getting a glimpse of Denver PrideFest 2012 through the eyes of photographer Simon O'Mahony in the images below. See many more and 'Like' Simon O'Mahony Photography on Facebook.

WERQ! Career Advice for Gay Men

By Simon O'Mahony

Looking for new ways to network? Forbes.com has just the thing for you. Read 5 New Ways to Network That You Won't Dread and learn how to Reinvent the Meet-and-Mingle, Be In With the In Crowd, Take Up A Cause, Work It and Reconnect With Your Passion. 

Read the full article here.

For local GLBT and GLBT-friendly networking opportunities you may want to look into Denver Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce and Denver Gay Professionals.

And for you job seekers, Sage Hospitality is looking for an SEO Analyst to join our Marketing Group. Check out this great opportunity here and contact me at Simon.OMahony@SageHospitality.com if interested.

Simon O’Mahony, originally from Dublin, Ireland, was personally recruited by Sage Hospitality and joined the organization as a Corporate Recruiter in 2006. In 2009, Simon was promoted into the role of Talent Acquisition Manager for Sage Hospitality and Sage Restaurant Group. Simon is responsible for hiring management positions for Sage Hospitality nationwide and for their corporate office in downtown Denver. He is also involved in overall recruiting initiatives including college recruiting programs, diversity initiatives, and employer branding. Simon works with several local and nationwide agencies, colleges, universities, in order to build a network and pipeline of candidates. In 2009 he was the recipient of the Sage Innovation Award as a result of his use of social media networking to enhance the recruiting process.

When he is not recruiting, (Recruiters are always working!) Simon enjoys Colorado’s beautiful outdoors. He also has a passion for photography and while it sounds like a cliché he loves meeting new people (which is why he probably loves recruiting!). 

 

WERQ! Career Advice for Gay Men

PREPARE YOUR REFERENCES – THE Do’s and Don’ts of References

By Simon O'Mahony

  

You have come this far, they are checking your references. A simple telephone call could make it or break it for you. There should be no such thing as a bad reference. Here are some tips to ensure a reference call goes smoothly:

• Track down and contact your references before the job hunt begins. Never leave it until the last minute
• Choose your references carefully, choose people who know and can speak of your work ethics and your abilities
• Gather up to five references. Make sure you ask for permission and let your references know that you are listing them
• List references on a separate page and place into categories that are easy to read, (eg  employers, academic, personal)
• Make sure your references’ details are correct and up to date including full name, job title, current company, contact numbers and email address
• Prepare your references for a call. Let them know that Mr. Smith should be contacting them for a reference in the next 48 hours
• Always follow up with your references. Thank them for taking the call and let them know if you got the job
• Stay away from generic letters of recommendations with “To Whom it May Concern”
• Do not depend on family, friends, and generic letters as your references

“Make sure your references know they are your references—it doesn’t represent well when the reference contacted seems surprised you are still using them,” says Kate Laing, Human Resources Manager, of Pacrim Hospitality Services, Inc.

Simon O’Mahony, originally from Dublin, Ireland, was personally recruited by Sage Hospitality and joined the organization as a Corporate Recruiter in 2006. In 2009, Simon was promoted into the role of Talent Acquisition Manager for Sage Hospitality and Sage Restaurant Group. Simon is responsible for hiring management positions for Sage Hospitality nationwide and for their corporate office in downtown Denver. He is also involved in overall recruiting initiatives including college recruiting programs, diversity initiatives, and employer branding. Simon works with several local and nationwide agencies, colleges, universities, in order to build a network and pipeline of candidates. In 2009 he was the recipient of the Sage Innovation Award as a result of his use of social media networking to enhance the recruiting process.

When he is not recruiting, (Recruiters are always working!) Simon enjoys Colorado’s beautiful outdoors. He also has a passion for photography and while it sounds like a cliché he loves meeting new people (which is why he probably loves recruiting!). Simon is a supporter of several non-profit organizations in Denver.

Simon can be reached at Simon.OMahony@SageHospitality.com.

WERQ! Career Advice for Gay Men

Career Goals – Benefits of an Internship and Real Life Work Experience

By Simon O'Mahony

Obtaining a college degree is one of the many important steps in pursing and reaching your career goals. However, a degree alone is not enough to be competitive. Hiring Managers want real life, on the job, experience to compliment your career. This can be done through many avenues including part-time jobs, volunteering opportunities etc, but an Internship can often offer the opportunity to develop your skills and abilities through a focused career-related program.

Typically, an internship lasts for at least a semester or a summer. Decidedly different than a part-time job, internships are designed to connect your classroom experiences to the real world through hands-on projects and mentoring relationships.

The Benefits of an Internship Program can include:

• Helps you develop a competitive edge over other candidates in the hiring process
• Increased your likelihood of receiving an employment offer upon graduation
• Tends to improve the initial salary offer
• Broadens your career knowledge and can strengthen your career decision
• Socializes you to the world of work including ethics and professionalism
• Reinforces classroom learning
• Gives you a realistic picture of what a career will actually be like

Finding an Internship:

Utilize the resources of your Career Office on campus, check out company websites, job search engines, and social media outlets. Network with alumni, family, and friends. 

Simon O’Mahony, originally from Dublin, Ireland, was personally recruited by Sage Hospitality and joined the organization as a Corporate Recruiter in 2006. In 2009, Simon was promoted into the role of Talent Acquisition Manager for Sage Hospitality and Sage Restaurant Group. Simon is responsible for hiring management positions for Sage Hospitality nationwide and for their corporate office in downtown Denver. He is also involved in overall recruiting initiatives including college recruiting programs, diversity initiatives, and employer branding. Simon works with several local and nationwide agencies, colleges, universities, in order to build a network and pipeline of candidates. In 2009 he was the recipient of the Sage Innovation Award as a result of his use of social media networking to enhance the recruiting process.

When he is not recruiting, (Recruiters are always working!) Simon enjoys Colorado’s beautiful outdoors. He also has a passion for photography and while it sounds like a cliché he loves meeting new people (which is why he probably loves recruiting!). Simon is a supporter of several non-profit organizations in Denver.

Simon can be reached at Simon.OMahony@SageHospitality.com.

Denver Art Seen: Simon O'Mahony Photography

"Don’t shoot what it looks like. Shoot what it feels like." - David Alan Harvey

Taken on a recent trip to his home country of Ireland, Simon O'Mahony of Simon O'Mahony Photography says that this shot taken in Downtown Dublin is "one of my most favorite recent shots" and explains that "My favorite hobby is to walk around and to try to capture this world we all share, as seen through my eyes."

See more and 'Like' Simon O'Mahony Photography on Facebook.

Each week Denver Art Seen will showcase the work of a Denver-based artist or photographer. To be featured on Denver Art Seen, email drewdenver@gmail.com. 

WERQ! Career Advice for Gay Men

By Simon O'Mahony

Exciting opportunities abound at Sage Hospitality and Sage Restaurant Group and Smashburger!

The Sage Global Office is looking for an SEO Analyst. Click here for more details.  






Other opportunities include the following:
 
Hotel Positions - Nationwide:
General Manager – Westin Cleveland Convention Center Hotel, Opening 2013
Director of Sales & Marketing – Westin Cleveland Convention Center Hotel, Opening 2013
General Manager – Courtyard by Marriott, 16th Street Mall, Denver, CO
Assistant General Manager – the Curtis, a Doubletree Hotel by Hilton, Denver, CO
Director of Sales & Marketing – the Curtis, a Doubletree Hotel by Hilton, Denver, CO
Director of Sales & Marketing – CoCo Key Boston Hotel (soon to be Doubletree), Danvers, MA
Director of Human Resources - CoCo Key Boston Hotel (soon to be Doubletree), Danvers, MA
Director of Human Resources – The Blackstone, A Renaissance Hotel, Chicago, IL
Director of Human Resources – Sheraton Phoenix Airport Hotel, Tempe, AZ
Executive Chef – The Corner Office + Martini Bar, Denver, CO

Sage Hospitality Corporate Office Positions – Denver, Colorado:
Employee Relations Manager - Human Resources Department
Divisional Vice President Operations, Select Service Division
Divisional Vice President Finance, Premier + Lifestyle Division
Divisional Vice President Sales, Premier + Lifestyle Division
Corporate Director of Sales, Select Service Division
Project Manager – Development and Acquisitions
SEO (Search Engine Optimization) Analyst – Marketing Department
Property Accountant – Corporate Finance
Manager of Financial Analysis and System Administration – Corporate Finance


For more information on these positions, email Simon at Simon.OMahony@sagehospitality.com.

And then there's SMASHBURGER! Know someone that wants to join the “#1 Movers & Shakers”? smashburger now searching for a Social Media Coordinator. To apply: send resume directly to Hkast@smashburger.com. Include Social Media Coordinator in subject line. Job Description is at left (click to embiggen).

Simon O’Mahony, originally from Dublin, Ireland, was personally recruited by Sage Hospitality and joined the organization as a Corporate Recruiter in 2006. In 2009, Simon was promoted into the role of Talent Acquisition Manager for Sage Hospitality and Sage Restaurant Group. Simon is responsible for hiring management positions for Sage Hospitality nationwide and for their corporate office in downtown Denver. He is also involved in overall recruiting initiatives including college recruiting programs, diversity initiatives, and employer branding. Simon works with several local and nationwide agencies, colleges, universities, in order to build a network and pipeline of candidates. In 2009 he was the recipient of the Sage Innovation Award as a result of his use of social media networking to enhance the recruiting process.

When he is not recruiting, (Recruiters are always working!) Simon enjoys Colorado’s beautiful outdoors. He also has a passion for photography and while it sounds like a cliché he loves meeting new people (which is why he probably loves recruiting!). Simon is a supporter of several non-profit organizations in Denver.

Simon can be reached at Simon.OMahony@SageHospitality.com.

WERQ! Career Advice for Gay Men

Use a headhunter to help find that perfect job

By Simon O'Mahony

Editor's Note: Simon O'Mahoney is recovering from a delightful vacation back home in Ireland with his family so this week's column is a repost of one of his classics.
 
Sometimes - well, most of the time - finding a new job can feel like a full time job in itself. So why not have someone help you? Someone who can open doors for you and get you exposed to a world of opportunities that you may not find posted on the internet - a recruiter or headhunter!

Here are the main benefits of partnering with a recruiter or a headhunter:

1. Recruiter Services are FREE!
The majority of recruiters are paid by the hiring company. They get paid if you get hired. So in essence, they need YOU.

2. Resources
Since a recruiter will get paid if they place you they will typically offer FREE advice on resumes, interviews, follow-up, etc. They will coach you through the entire hiring process. That kind of advice can be invaluable.

3. Contacts!
A seasoned recruiter will have hundreds of contacts that they can get your resume in front off. This helps eliminate the frustration of applying online and the uncertainty of wondering where your resume will end up.

4. Leg Work!
If you are currently working and looking to make a change, then finding time to search online for a new job can be challenging. A recruiter will be doing that work for you, making calls, contacting connections, hiring managers, etc., and getting your resumes into the right people’s hands.

5. Recruiters Often Have Access to Unpublished Jobs
There are several companies who, for confidentiality reasons, do not publically publish or post all of their open positions. Probably one of the only ways to know about these positions is by working with a recruiter.

6. Confidentiality
If you are currently working and looking for a new job, you always run the risk of your current company finding out that you are looking. Working with a recruiter eliminates this as they will 100 percent guarantee confidentiality when sending out your resume.

7. Negotiating
A recruiter can help you negotiate the best salary and terms. Also, a good recruiter knows when to stop negotiating.

8. Final Tips
Always be 100 percent honest with your Recruiter. They should be someone you can trust and be totally honest with. And never go behind a recruiter's back if they share a lead with you. Bad job karma, that.

Simon O’Mahony, originally from Dublin, Ireland, was personally recruited by Sage Hospitality and joined the organization as a Corporate Recruiter in 2006. In 2009, Simon was promoted into the role of Talent Acquisition Manager for Sage Hospitality and Sage Restaurant Group. Simon is responsible for hiring management positions for Sage Hospitality nationwide and for their corporate office in downtown Denver. He is also involved in overall recruiting initiatives including college recruiting programs, diversity initiatives, and employer branding. Simon works with several local and nationwide agencies, colleges, universities, in order to build a network and pipeline of candidates. In 2009 he was the recipient of the Sage Innovation Award as a result of his use of social media networking to enhance the recruiting process.

When he is not recruiting, (Recruiters are always working!) Simon enjoys Colorado’s beautiful outdoors. He also has a passion for photography and while it sounds like a cliché he loves meeting new people (which is why he probably loves recruiting!). Simon is a supporter of several non-profit organizations in Denver.

Simon can be reached at Simon.OMahony@SageHospitality.com.

WERQ! Career Advice for Gay Men

Lights, Camera, Action … Get ready, your next job interview might be on Skype! 

by Simon O'Mahony, the Undercover Recruiter

In an effort to save time and money a lot of companies are now turning to video-chat software to interview job candidates. Like everything else, practice makes perfect. Getting past camera shyness and not speaking face to face can be a challenge but here are some tips on how you should handle a Skype interview.

Look into the camera, not at your screen 

This takes practice. Natural instinct is to look at the screen but by not looking into the camera if gives the impression that you are not making eye contact with the interviewer.

Get rid of interruptions and distractions

Since you will be probably doing your interview from the comfort of your home, be aware of interruptions. As with an in-person interview, turn off your cell phone, make sure you dog is not barking in the background, make sure loud music is not playing in the next room, and be sure to let roommates or family members know that you are conducting an interview so they don’t barge in on you.

Background Check

Your background surroundings can say a lot about you. If possible shoot your camera against a blank wall, and make sure you clear off your desk. Remove clutter, coffee cups etc.

Dress for Success

Treat this like an in-person interview. Be professional, properly groomed, clean and simple. Do not take the risk of putting on a shirt and tie and wearing shorts or pajama bottoms and thinking the camera won't see it. Too many things can go wrong!

Conduct a Mock Interview

Ask a friend or family member to conduct a mock interview via Skype and record it. This gives you the opportunity to get comfortable with the technology, to check your connections and camera, and also allows you to see how you look and sound on camera. Another idea is to practice in front of a mirror as this not only helps you with the content of your message but will familiarize you with how you sound and how you look.

Get to know proper Web Cam Etiquette 

You do not want to sit too close to the camera. However, you do want to lean in and sit forward. This will allow interviewers to clearly read your facial expressions. Again, look at the camera, and not the screen. Put your hands where you can see them so the interviewer can read your body language and other non-verbal cues. Add extra enthusiasm and keep your answers clear, concise and to the point.

Congratulations, you've nailed your Skype interview!

Simon O’Mahony, originally from Dublin, Ireland, was personally recruited by Sage Hospitality and joined the organization as a Corporate Recruiter in 2006. In 2009, Simon was promoted into the role of Talent Acquisition Manager for Sage Hospitality and Sage Restaurant Group. Simon is responsible for hiring management positions for Sage Hospitality nationwide and for their corporate office in downtown Denver. He is also involved in overall recruiting initiatives including college recruiting programs, diversity initiatives, and employer branding. Simon works with several local and nationwide agencies, colleges, universities, in order to build a network and pipeline of candidates. In 2009 he was the recipient of the Sage Innovation Award as a result of his use of social media networking to enhance the recruiting process.

When he is not recruiting, (Recruiters are always working!) Simon enjoys Colorado’s beautiful outdoors. He also has a passion for photography and while it sounds like a cliché he loves meeting new people (which is why he probably loves recruiting!). Simon is a supporter of several non-profit organizations in Denver.

Simon can be reached at Simon.OMahony@SageHospitality.com.