Cathy Dobson
Sarnia’s Catharine Brown says the local job market has never been tougher, and top-notch job search skills have never been more important.
That’s where she comes in.
As a career counsellor with more than 20 years experience, Brown has just launched a new business called Career Guru that specializes in career development, interview skills and finding the right job.
“I’ve worked with government career counselling programs in both London and Sarnia and I know there are a lot of people who either don’t qualify for them or need something more,” said Brown.
The area unemployment rate is at least 9%, she said.
“That makes it an employers’ labour market right now. They have so many people to choose from.
“The field is so competitive. The average old resume doesn’t cut it anymore.”
With so many applying for every job, an employer will assess a resume in seven seconds or less, Brown said.
“That’s how long you have to make an impression with your resume, so you have to know what you are doing.”
Career Guru will assist with resume preparation, but does it with added value, she said.
“I have a holistic approach. Not only do we look at the right kind of job for your personality, we talk about lifestyle, family and education.
“The idea is to cater to the individual. There are jobs out there but it takes a skilled job seeker to get in on one of those.”
Career Guru offers free 20-minute consultations to start.
Resume preparations cost $100 to $500 or more, depending on employment history and experience.
“I am here for people who understand they need assistance and know that it’s a worthwhile investment,” Brown said.
“There are many people who don’t qualify for the government programs but need help in deciding which direction they’re headed.”
To contact Catharine Brown, call 519-330-6148 or visit www.1careerguru.com.
HARI TO OPEN SPRING ROLL DINER
Those who remember the vendor who sold spring rolls at the Sarnia market years ago are going to like this.
Hari Srinivasan, son of the market’s original spring roll maker, will soon open Hari’s Famous Spring Rolls diner on Wellington Street.
The building across from SCITS is under renovation and should be ready for businesses in early October, says Srinivasan.
The 20-seat restaurant will offer the Srinivasan’s original spring roll recipe, and feature flavours such as pulled pork. There will also be burgers, sandwiches and poutine on the menu.
“My mom sold her spring rolls at the market for many years,” said Srinivasan. “It was so popular that some of the other vendors there complained about their stalls being blocked.”
CELEBRATING CURVES
Lynae Morningstar and Meaghan Esser, two sisters who purchased the Lambton Mall Road Curves franchise last year, are hosting an open house and barbecue on Saturday, Sept. 20.
Between 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., several professionals will speak on health and wellness topics including financial consultant Tara Webster, kinesiologist Mark Williams, as well as the co-owners.
The fitness centre’s new defibrillator will be on display along with draws, free classes and free mini-massages.
The barbecue runs 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. with proceeds going to the local Organization for Literacy.
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Got an interesting business story? Contact Cathy Dobson at [email protected] or 226-932-0985.