By:  Rodric L. Golden

The Professional Growth event for the month of February calmed the buzz of some PMI members.  I attended several PMI events recently and there was a buzz circulating regarding recruiters being in the building.  I overheard some members stating they wished there was a way to identify the recruiters who were present.  This was the very thought that was running through my head.  Apparently, someone either read my mind or overheard the same conversation. 

At this month’s Professional Growth event, it was nice to see that recruiters actually had a segment in the Professional Growth event to identify themselves, their areas of expertise, open positions, and highlight current hiring trends of various industries.  These introductions gave interested job seekers the opportunity to identify which recruiter aligned with their particular needs.  In addition, it improved upon the usual “table” process that was not as effective.  This new process allowed individuals to spend less time waiting in line for a recruiter at a table, only to find misalignment of interests, industry, or area of specialty.  Bringing recruiters directly into the monthly event definitely added value to the Professional Growth and networking portion of the monthly dinner meeting.  I think that those seeking new opportunities can appreciate this change and will look forward to networking in the coming months.