Showing posts with label WERQ. Show all posts
Showing posts with label WERQ. Show all posts

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

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."

Thursday, December 13, 2012

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.

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

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.

Wednesday, August 22, 2012

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.

Wednesday, August 1, 2012

WERQ! Career Advice for Gay Men

For those of you who missed it the first time around, we're reprinting one of Simon's most popular columns from the past few months. Enjoy. And happy job hunting!
By Simon O'Mahony

Using Pinterest for your Job Search. Three Simple Tips.

Social Media continues to play a crucial role when searching for a job, and now its time to use Pinterest for your job search.

Find your Target Companies
Go to your list of target companies that you would love to work for and find them on Pinterest. These pinboards will be a great resource for you and offer insights as to a company’s culture, news, hiring etc. This kind of information can help you tailor your application and will help you ace your interview by showing that you have done your homework and research.

Follow your College Career Office
Even if your school’s career office is not yet on Pinterest, follow those who are. This is an excellent resource for college students and grads on job search tips, resumes, career research, dressing for success etc.

Pin your Resume on Pinterest
To start on Pinterest all your need is an invite which you simply request on www.pinterest.com – no lengthy profile to fill out. Create a pinboard for your job search and give it a name that will make your stick out to employers in your field, e.g. “John Murphy – Rocket Scientist”, just keep it simple, short and professional, as you can share it on your resume.

Once you create your pinboard, now pin it. Along with pinning it with your resume, use additional information to create a brand for yourself. You can pin awards and recognition that you have received, press clippings, linkedin.com recommendations etc. Use your creativity to create a pinboard that reflects and represents you.

Once created your need to share your pinboard. Share the link on your facebook page, tweet it, add it to your resume, post it on linkedin.com. The more you share it the more valuable it becomes.

 Check on this great board to give your some ideas…http://pinterest.com/careerbliss/.

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.

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

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.

Thursday, July 5, 2012

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.

Tuesday, June 5, 2012

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!). 


 

Thursday, May 24, 2012

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.



Thursday, May 10, 2012

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.