For Hammond resident Mary Hartford, it’s all about attitude.
“I’ve been out of work for over a year now, since my company closed. I’ve talked to many interesting companies and some jobs look promising,” she said. “But I’ve made up my mind to stay positive, no matter what happens. I really believe bosses look for this in the people they hire.”
So despite a gray, rainy day, she optimistically joined more than 800 other job-seekers at the recent 13th annual Job Fair at the Hammond Civic Center.
“It’s rained every year since we’ve held this Job Fair – with one exception,” said Africa Tarver, Hammond’s director of economic development, which sponsored the event along with North Township Trustee Frank J. Mrvan and WorkOne of Northwest Indiana. “But that hasn’t stopped the job seekers, or the vendors, from coming. They are committed and determined.”
This event is instrumental in addressing the employment needs of the residents of the City of Hammond and the Region, as well as assisting local companies in their recruitment process, she added.
The 80 companies present represented a wide range of industries, including financial, gaming, sales, health care, manufacturing, law enforcement and apprentice trades, among others.
Applicants were encouraged to dress to impress and have resumes at the ready.
Mercedes Turner of Hammond did both, but quickly ran out of the few dozen resumes she had brought. Someone told her about a copy machine available, and she quickly found it off to the side of the vendor’s tables.
“I didn’t realize there would be so many companies here,” she said. “I was surprised that this was available for free. It’s a nice gesture.”
Mrvan’s office provided the use of the copy machine at no cost.
Additionally, extra tables were set up to fill out job applications, and WorkOne conducted workshops that covered information for those wanting to become better job-seekers. “We are really excited to be able to bring this 45-minute educational opportunity to the public,” Tarver said.
Gabby Gallegos, Marketing Coordinator for Hammond’s Economic Development, told job seekers to prepare by looking and acting professional. “I cannot stress the importance of bringing plenty of updated resumes,” she said. “It is also extremely important to dress appropriately for the job you want. When in doubt, dress up, not down.”
But for Hartford, outlook was most important.
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“No matter how long you’ve been away from your last job, that upbeat attitude can be a game-changer, she said, “for both yourself and that possible new employer.”