FINDING THE RIGHT FIT

Well, well, well HA! I find i'm back on the market. Not surprising in times like these, lay offs everywhere, long hours and double the work, hunting for ways to acheive impossible odds!

As did I, many people would take the first thing smokin' if offered a job before Christmas! However let me impress upon you, how that is not always a good thing ;-)

As a wise old man with limited education once told me, "all money ain't good money".
So I will say to you, "all job opportunities are not good job opportunities" for you and your background.

Finding the right fit is very important. For all my recruiting friends out there you know that experience has taught us that 50% of getting a job is the applicants hard skills and the other 50% includes soft skills. Let's examine what are hard and soft skills.

Hard Skills - include your years of experience, specific technology used,
tools etc.

Soft Skills - inlcude your interpersonal skills, ability to work on a team,
methodologies used to do your job to ensure culture fit

Finding the right fit on both sides continues to be the mysterious way that agencies and HR recruiting staff stay employed.

Here are a few tips that I will share with you:

How large is the company
How many clients do they have that they are actively working with directly
How many vendor management clients do they have
What are their processes
Is there training
What is the expected ramp up time
Explain the company culture
Explain the management style
Are they in the top 10 on their clients list
Who are their competitors
Do you have a repository to track data
Do you use your database
What is broken
What is working
Why is this position open - accept the answer with a grain of salt
What is the CEO's philosophy and interest in it's employees
What resources are available to you

These are just a few! LOL!!! Be patient, be good to yourself, and things will work they way they should.

SOME ARE STILL HIRING

Hello my faithful readers. Thanks for coming back to my page. Yes it's true, that if you ask all around you will find someone who has just gotten laid off, another company is shutting down or you have just been made aware of the infamous "hiring pause".

Well Hooray for the Pharmaceutical companies out there! They are still going strong. One of the clients i'm supporting in Kalamazoo Michigan is sending out 3 and 4 jobs request every day, and yes i've shared that with you because I have openings.

If you have any of the following skills in a highly regulated environment or Pharma Industry contact me immediately:

Programmer Analyst - Gxp environment, 2 – 4 years of programming experience using MiniTab and Cognos Reporting. Strong knowledge of COGNOS Framework Manager; computer validation and familiarity with cGXP regulations; and knowledge of pharmaceutical QA/QC laboratory business processes. Degree required.


Business Analyst - Chromatography Data System(CDS) Interface. This person will be responsible for the configuration, testing and implementation of the Chromatography to LAS interface and the MAPS to LAS interface. 2 – 4 years of experience with software integration and configuration, technical writing, Familiarity with ABI's SQL*LIMS and SQL*QA software and data model. Familiarity with laboratory processes and chromatography systems very desirable. Strong knowledge of computer validation and familiarity with cGXP regulations; knowledge of pharmaceutical QA/QC laboratory business processes. Strong COGNOS knowledge would be a plus.

Validation Specialist - This position will be responsible for creating and managing validation documentation and other project documentation to support the Kalamazoo Global LIMS Deployment project. Required skills and experience: Expert level of proficiency with the following Microsoft products: Visio, Power Point, Excel, and Word. Candidate will have the ability to communicate and work effectively with internal customers and IT staff in person, over the phone, and through e-mail; good decision making and problem solving skills; structured work habits and detail oriented. Desired skills and experience: Familiarity with Microsoft SharePoint, ABI's SQL*LIMS and SQL*QA software and data model, knowledge of QA/QC laboratory business processes in a regulated environment; IT experience including systems analysis and writing requirementsSend me an email

Application Support General Function: Ensures the continuing operation of software applications, both off-the-shelf and in-house. Applies and tests enhancements, fixes and upgrades to applications. Demonstrates ability to discover, troubleshoot, and fix software problems. Is responsible for problem triage and responding to helpdesk tickets. Monitors performance, stress and load tests, and tunes for increased performance. Keeps informed and trained in advances in their specific field. Capable of performing effectively in a team, or alone and unsupervised. Communicates effectively with team members and management.
Job title: Application Support
RWT Role: Advanced-Leads support staff
Experience: 5 Years + application support and management
Education: Undergraduate Degree
Skill Sets: Commercial Applications – Business Objects, Ariba, Documentum
Microsoft Office

I Want To Hear From You

If you are in the following areas I want to hear from you: North Carolina, Philadelphia, New York.

Yes I'm back on the hunt! As many of you know I was on a long term contract at Cisco Systems, and now I have moved on to a full-time position with Base One Technologies. We are going to be looking for people in the areas listed above. The type of positions will include the following skills:

Unix Developers
Weblogic Apps Server
PMP - Project Managers
Oracle ERP/Financials
Oracle Discoverer
PHP, My SQL,
J2EE, Java

Just to name a few. Please reach out to me via this post.

Things Are Looking Up!

Hello everyone! Now that the election is over, for the most part companies are holding their purse strings in one hand and planning their hiring strategies in the next.

I've spoken to at least a dozen hiring managers already and the consensus is the next 30-60 days things are looking up for hiring.

If you are currently unemployed, waiting for the hatchet to fall, don't be dismayed, keep a positive attitude things are looking up!

You've got to take the bull by the horns now and prepare for battle. All of the things you are made of are now in full play! If you are a PMP whose pretty handy with a paintbrush now is the time to use all of your knowledge, skills and ability to weather the storm.

Key factors that can help us all get through these times will be:
1. Network
2. Use all your skills
3. Be consistent and deliver
4. Always look for an opportunity
5. Keep a positive attitude....because.....

Things Are Looking Up!

What's Your View?

Finding yourself unemployed changes your prespective on life. Of course you could take one of two views.

First view: Negative

Why take this view? It's easy. You can start by blaming everyone, blaming situations, and of course blaming yourself. You can replay scenarios over and over but the results still end up the same; frustration, worry, panic, no job!


Second View: Positive

Why take this view? It's necessary. You can start by accepting your current state, evaluate how you got here, take personal inventory, build your strategic plan to change your position. You can start by establishing and tighting up your network, dust off your resume and get someone in your network to give you some feedback, GET A MENTOR, plan your week - this includes calls, interviews, meetings etc., stay away from TV, unnecessary phone calls ("how are you, it's gonna be alright"). You can take all of these positive steps, and still end up with no job, BUT you will have generated an electrifying momentum of hope and assurance that will create an ora of confidence and pride, reminding yourself of the things you have a passion for.

Bottom Line: Don't Give up!

Taking My Own Advice!

Well after 20 years, I find myself unemployed swallowing a healthy dose of my on advice. As of last Friday I am no longer employed with Manpower onsite for Cisco. I'm going to miss working there. It truly was an awesome opportunity to help a lot of people, work on some exciting initiatives for HR and learn about emerging technologies within the walls of Cisco.

Now that I'm moving on I will have to take my own career advice that I have shared with so many of you, now we will all see if it really works ;-).

In the mean time I do have a few opportunities that a few friends are searching for. If you have any of the following skills please let me know ASAP!

VOIP Network Engineer in Central Valley CA - Leading University looking for a Network Engineer for a full-time position to be responsible for recommending and installing networking and computer systems. This position is also responsible for third-level network support for the Help Desk. In the above and all that follows, network or networking generically means data and/or voice and/or video including any associated databases and web components.


CMDB Developer in Cleveland OH - The position will be a technical lead responsible for designing, developing and documenting integrations between applications maintaining an expert level understanding of all customizations, configurations and interfaces with these systems. This person will focus primarily on ITIL applications and toolsets.
¨ Knowledge of basic web programming languages including XML, JavaScript, and Java.
¨ Experience with Microsoft Programming Languages including VB, and .NET.
¨ Knowledge of general information technology design and architecture concepts.
¨ Experience with ITIL best practices.
¨ Familiarity with formal Requirements Gathering methodologies and lifecycles.
¨ Familiarity with Release and Change Management practices.


For more information please contact me on one of the following:

Yahoo IM: tangils
email: engage.strategicrecruiters@gmail.com

Regards,

Tangil

Preparation

Right now in today's economic state we are seeing businesses closing, homes in foreclosure, unemployment rising, And even destruction caused by natural disasters. Faced with these challenges some have figured out that LIFE, has caught us by surprise and It's time to regroup and get prepared.

Definition of the word "Prepare"(http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prepare) - 1 a: to make ready beforehand for some purpose, use, or activity b: to put in a proper state of mind
2: to work out the details of : plan in advance

In relations to looking for a job, we must get in the proper state of mind to listen to what companies and employers need, work out the details and make ready beforehand our ability to sell ourselves, package our experience and show how we can be an asset. Here are some helpful ways to stay prepared:

1. Research the OOH(occupational outlook handbook) - http://www.bls.gov/oco/home.htm
This will display for you hundreds of jobs with the basic requirements to do the work.

2. Change your resume - there are many sites, but I will give you Tangil's Simple Resume Advice:
a. state what you did in chronological order
b. show what you used to do your job,
c. list technologies that were used in the environment (even if you are not a tech)
d. if you haven't worked in over six months to a year, take a contract in a related field and get it on your resume
e. always show dates if multiple jobs in a year, list the year only

3. Networking- today there are many forms of networking,and lead generation, by using social networking sites like linkedin.com, ning.com, plaxo, jigsaw, facebook, but also infinity groups within your own companies, forums, chat rooms, blogs etc. There is even a new shift of networking in virtual worlds like secondlife.com. I'm sure you know by now the most effective sourcing is through referrals. These referrals can be found by any of the medians just mentioned above.

4. Consider fulfilling a different role in the same industry. If you can't find a position in your field of interest, consider something different. Experience is key in being selected for a position, but industry and technology is changing so rapidly, understanding the methodologies, lingo, and it's future; it is equally important.

5. Know the Job Description aka "JD"! on average, there are at least 100 applicants that have applied to any given job posting within 24-48 hours of being posted. This includes both internal candidates and external candidates. Experienced recruiters know this will require a quick prescreening and elimination process. The first resumes to go are the ones that do not speak to the JD. READ the job description and make sure your resume truthfully speaks to what the employer is requesting. Many times candidates rest upon their experience and or knowledge by stating, "I've got that experience but, do I have to know Mandarin? If the JD is requesting a foreign language there is a good reason for it. If you don't have a skill listed on the JD don't let this stop you from applying, just be prepared to give example both in your CV, resume or interview on how you can meet the need. If once your resume has been identified as a candidate that the employer may consider, be prepared in your interview to give examples of how your experience correlates with the JD.

6. Research the company - Once you have made it to the interview you are probably in the top 10-20%. However there is still yet another elimination period. The ideal status to be in of the hiring process is in the top 1-3%. If you want to be considered for the job, research the company, know the company's mission, vision, latest news releases, products and services. Who is the CEO and what are some of his top initiatives.

Hopefully these Six points will shed some light to some and remind others of the need to put "preparaton" back into our lives. We all are on the go and rushing and running most places. However if we want to be successful, plan for it.

Let Your Work Change the Standard of Living

Whether we are helping a company digitize their media solutions in Hollywood, or helping a Service Provider become more scalable in their service offerings or making it possible to get Hospitals and Schools back on the network in Chengdu, Cisco is looking for those who are ready to, "Change the Standard of Living, by giving folks a chance to participate".

In today's economy, there are a great number of people looking for opportunities, and Cisco is seeking candidates with consultative global partnering, collaboration, and Network implementation experience.

I am partnering with our China office to find the top talent either locally, or near by countries, and or folks that live in the US and would welcome the opportunity to relocate.


If you or someone you know can:

1) speak mandrain and english fluently

2)Can work in one of the following locations: Shanghai, Beijing, Chengdu, Taipei, or Hong Kong,

3) Have experience with Cisco product implementations in the following capacity:

Education Solutions Specialist
• Experience in designing and implementing networking solutions for schools and public sector would be highly desirable
• A working knowledge of or experience with innovative networking technologies and Web 2.0 applications would be desirable (e.g., video, mobility)
• IT leadership in or consulting to education sector, preferably in China and/or Asia Pacific
• Proven management: 5-7 years experience, preferably managing high performance virtual, cross-functional teams
• Requires BS, CS, or University technical degree equivalent; advanced technical degree strongly preferred
• CCIE and proficiency in the following technical areas highly desirable: IP Telephony Call Processing (CCM; GW; GK; Dial Plan; Emergency Services); Unified Messaging (Unity); Telephony Applications (PA, IP-IVR, ICD, AA, EM, CCC); IPT Operation Tools (ART, BAT, VHM, Unity tools); Network Infrastructure (QoS, Routing and Switching); Cisco’s Wireless technologies (Wireless Mesh, Wireless Access Point, IPICS); Video solutions (conferencing and streaming); Security solutions; Network management solutions

Consulting Systems Engineer - Physical and Network Security - (Location: Hong Kong). Experience with Survelliance and Network Security, CCIE preferred.

Solutions Architect -
• Strong IT architecture design, deployment and optimization experience, specifically with networked-enabled solutions
• IT and/or leadership experience in secondary or tertiary Education or the non-profit sector a strong plus
• Leadership in Web 2.0 and Mobility Education technologies, including video and imaging, cloud computing and grid applications would be ideal
• Fluency in spoken Mandarin and English, and a working knowledge of business, Education and governmental practices in China
• Bachelors degree in information/computer science or related field; advanced degree in engineering, information technology or related filed highly desirable
• Prior international consulting would be highly valued, especially the public sector in China and/or AsiaPacific; willingness to travel up to 1-2 days/week
- (Location: Chengdu)

HC Solutions Architect -

• Minimum of 8-10 years of experience designing and implementing innovative technology solutions, with a particular focus in Healthcare
• Developing detailed layered technical architectures that include multi-vendor products and solutions
• CCIE certification is a prerequisite; IETF, IEEE, NANOG, RIPE participation or membership is desirable
• Strong multi-partner management and integration
• Highly effective communication and customer relationship management skills
• Providing guidance on critical network technology management to the end customer
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in engineering, information technology or related field would be preferred
• Chinese Healthcare and public sector environments would be helpful
• Willingness and ability to travel within eastern and southwestern China, as needed (perhaps up to 50% of the time)
• Since the deployments will be within the Sichuan Province, it would be preferable if the Solutions Architect resided in or near Chengdu, however Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong can be considered as alternatives

• Disaster recovery, Network trends & futures, Network/transport protocols, Optical transport, Quality of Service (QoS), IP Addressing and Domains, IP Multicast Switching and routing, LANs, MANs, WANs, Remote access, Encryption, Security Policy Development, Firewalls, Intrusion Detection, Authentication Management, Network resiliency, Network management, Network performance optimization, voice, video and TDM voice technologies


QA Engineer IPC -Contributing Development Test Engineer focused on developing the industry’s best IP Phones. Candidates must have a proven track record and demonstrable skill in software test methodology, including: System/Next-Node Test, Performance test, Stress/duration test, VoIP feature interaction test, protocol test and regression automation. Candidate must have strong teamwork, communication, and documentation skills and strong English communication skill (Oral & Written English). (Location: Shanghai)

QA Engineer IPTV- BS or post graduate degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering or related field
- At least 2 ~ 4 years related QA experience
- strong scripting and programming skills, preferably including Java, C/C++, shell scripts (bash), Expect, beanshell
- familiarity with Linux
- enthusiasm and willingness to learn new technologies
- problem solving and troubleshooting skills
- good team working and communication skills

Software Engineer IPTV- You will be part of Cisco Video group to work on next generation Video, content delivery and service routing platform.
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science or Engineering
- At least 3 ~ 4 years of software development experience
- Strong analytical abilities and problem solving skills
- Effective communication skills to work with global team
- Experience in multi-threads or processes programming
- Experience in building web-based programming applications
- Development in Unix/Linux environment (IPC, threads, filesystem, database, performance)
- Experience with Open Source Technologies & version control(SVN)
- Strong C/C++ programming skills
- Knowledge of JMX, XML, Javascript, beanshell


Software Engineer IPC-
7+ years of software engineering experiences preferably in internetworking and VoIP technologies, applications and devices.
BS in CS/EE or equivalent, with Master's Degree or above preferred.
Ability to apply extensive experience as a networking generalist or specialist
Requires experience with more than one of the LAN/WAN and network layer protocols
Requires expertise with one or more of the VOIP protocols SIP, MGCP or H.323
Expert in C/C++ with Java/JBuilder OO experience a plus
Strong knowledge of advanced architecture principles and design practices
Strong knowledge of advanced datacom concepts


Than please contact me immediately with your resume.

HOT JOBS

Welcome back! Cisco is moving like a SMT "Shanghai MagLev Train". I hope you have your ticket as in resume in hand!

Cisco is hiring for fulltime positions in China ASAP!!! There are multiple initiatives and projects going on. If you or someone you know can:
1) speak chinese and english fluently
2)Can work in one of the following locations: Shanghai, Beijing, Chengdu, Taipei, or Hong Kong,
3) Have experience with Cisco product implementations in the following capacity:Project Management Experience in Network Implementations and Solutions for Hospitals and or Education environments

Consulting Systems Engineer - Physical and Network Security

Solutions Architect - Voip, Wireless, R/S, Optical, Lan/Wan (2 or more solutions)

QA Engineer IPC -Contributing Development Test Engineer focused on developing the industry’s best IP Phones. Candidates must have a proven track record and demonstrable skill in software test methodology, including: System/Next-Node Test, Performance test, Stress/duration test, VoIP feature interaction test, protocol test and regression automation. Candidate must have strong teamwork, communication, and documentation skills and strong English communication skill (Oral & Written English) .

QA Engineer IPTV- BS or post graduate degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering or related field
- At least 2 ~ 4 years related QA experience
- strong scripting and programming skills, preferably including Java, C/C++, shell scripts (bash), Expect, beanshell
- familiarity with Linux
- enthusiasm and willingness to learn new technologies
- problem solving and troubleshooting skills
- good team working and communication skills

Software Engineer IPTV- You will be part of Cisco Video group to work on next generation Video, content delivery and service routing platform.
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science or Engineering
- At least 3 ~ 4 years of software development experience
- Strong analytical abilities and problem solving skills
- Effective communication skills to work with global team
- Experience in multi-threads or processes programming
- Experience in building web-based programming applications
- Development in Unix/Linux environment (IPC, threads, filesystem, database, performance)
- Experience with Open Source Technologies & version control(SVN)
- Strong C/C++ programming skills
- Knowledge of JMX, XML, Javascript, beanshell


Software Engineer IPC-
7+ years of software engineering experiences preferably in internetworking and VoIP technologies, applications and devices.
BS in CS/EE or equivalent, with Master's Degree or above preferred.
Ability to apply extensive experience as a networking generalist or specialist
Requires experience with more than one of the LAN/WAN and network layer protocols
Requires expertise with one or more of the VOIP protocols SIP, MGCP or H.323
Expert in C/C++ with Java/JBuilder OO experience a plus
Strong knowledge of advanced architecture principles and design practices
Strong knowledge of advanced datacom concepts


Than please contact me immediately with your resume.

Cisco China Is Looking For People

This month my blog will be focused on capturing readers that are:
1. Seeking employment in China
2. Currently working in nearby countries willing to work for local pay
3. Candidates in the US that want to return to China, or...
4. Sharing referrals of technical candidates for work in China

Over the next month I will list news on what Cisco China is doing. For applying for open positions please see the "WORK" section on the right of this blog to Register/Apply and or search for job opportunities.

To be considered please post your comments, or contact me via email.

Let's Go To Cisco China!!!

Cisco China is an awesome place to consider, especially at a time like now. No wonder the world was dazzled at the extraordinary performances of those responsible for the 2008 Olympics. To create such an awesome Olympic performance required dedicated people, superb time management and of course SMART technology. China is one of the top countries to watch out for regarding agile intelligent technical growth.

China is growing at a rate between 8-10%. As China expands, so does Cisco operations to capture the market in this part of the world. Considering that currently China manufactures more than 20% of Cisco's products.

The growth of China is of high importance to Cisco's globalization strategy. It's a top priority and a long-term strategy for Cisco in China.

The Evolution of Cisco China

Cisco China opened in 1994 in Beijing. Today it has more than 2,300 employees, with more than 55 percent who work in R&D. China is home to the Shanghai-based Cisco China R&D Center (CRDC), one of the company's six global research centers, a Scientific Atlantic R&D center, manufacturing, and the main R&D center of WebEx. Cisco China's customers come from every market segment in which Cisco does business, and include China Mobile, China Construction Bank, China Network Communications, and Haier, the country's biggest manufacturer of large home appliances.

For more information please post your comments!

INNOVATION

Cisco is always looking for people. If you understand how to foster collaboration, optimization, growth, learning, innovation, and hardwork, than Cisco could be the place for you.

Cisco wants to be at the Head of innovation and change. We live, work, play and learn in that balance. Whether you are an Executive Adminstrative Assistant planning a conference for the Executive and Global Staff, or an Enterprise Architect whose mission is to consult and design a network across an entire City, to a Network Engineer who sits onsite at one of our top 5 customers in the world;

Cisco is always looking for people working in the forward, the before not the after! Take a look at your past and tell us how you can add to Cisco's future.

Mid Life Crisis

Hello Everyone, I think I'm having a Mid-Life Crisis! How about you? As I turn a year older, certain things are hitting me in the face like a MACK Truck, such as:

1. I still haven't loss that weight I wanted to from 7 years ago!
2. My parents are retired, and their health is failing and I'm hundreds of miles away
3. I haven't had a vacation, I mean a real vacation in over 3 years
4. Everyone in the family is getting older, dying off, spread apart
5. I'm asking myself did I reach my goal, "did I become what I wanted to be when I grew up"
6. Am I passionate about the work i'm doing???

I started to ask myself what is the ROI. What kind of return on investment am I getting from my life up until this point? At first I started to worry, until I began a personal inventory of what options I had.

Why is this important to you? If this sounds like you, maybe you should check your options as well. While talking to candidates for job opporutnities, a lot of them share similiar stories, about working on jobs that they've been on for years, some know their company's business plan are failing yet they stay and wait for the hatchet, some gave their blood, sweat and tears to the company and found that they are laid off looking for a new career after 10+ years of service with no idea where to start.

I wanted you to consider something when looking at Cisco for employment. First and foremost I love this company because the President and CEO, John Chambers has a vision that is clearly defined and implemented throughout the company worldwide. Second, Cisco understands the importance of work life balance, family, local and global community, and education.

This transcends into a company culture that promotes Work, Live, Play and Learn. At the end of the day, you have the opportunity to reach so many lives by working here, not just in selling products and services, but the collaboration, innovation and optimization that is fostered throughout business unit too business unit.

Cisco is constantly promoting internal and external growth, mentally, physically, educationally, technically and so on.

Just the other day there was a training on learning new "Smartboard Technology" and right beside it was a posting for Senior Care and the effects of the family. Something that we all need to know more about for family members over 60. As well as with gas prices being what they are, they've promoted carpooling and some flexiblity to work from home.

It got me to thinking about how fortunate I am to be in a place such as Cisco Systems. There are really a number of things I can do from within the Cisco walls that will aid me in acheiving my goals; like taking advantage of our telepresence or WebEx conferencing to connect with those miles away, participating with the wellness program at the gym here on site or voluteering to work special events in the local community working through one of our ERG groups.

All companies of course must focus on their products, services and bottom line, but they don't have to promote life long learning for your personal well being, nor educating you on how to support your family and community. This is a place where you really can live, learn, work and play.

If you're going through the Mid Life Crisis (MLC), consider this:

1. create a personal goal sheet
2. decide what you're passionate about and how you will make a difference
3. when seeking a job, find out if the company promotes internal growth
4. Is your company a leader in Inclusion and Diversity?
5. Does your company give you the opportunity to grow as a person?

At Cisco you are awarded many opportunities to promote personal and professional growth from the inside out.

I encourage you to click on "Find My Dream Job" and copy and paste your resume in the blank space. DO NOT ADD A CITY OR OTHER PARAMETERS; just click search. This will give you an opportunity to see Globally where your skills are best needed within Cisco worldwide. Also search our Philanthropy and Community page where you can see a list of things you can be invovled in. http://www.cisco.com/web/about/ac48/pbi.html

Maybe it's time to work in the UK, Paris, Dubai? The options are limiteless!!!

I'm convinced!!! We are not having a Mid Life Crisis;Instead we are going to re-align our focus, and press toward implementing those personal goals with a company that promotes the same thinking. So the question of the day is: Can you reach your personal goals where you're currently working? If not, focus on Cisco, working here provides a great Return on Investment!

Cisco Is Moving Like a Locomotive

I'm BAAAAACK!!! Yes, it's been a while. I've been on "Holiday"! Not really, I've been working on new and exciting projects within Cisco. Sorry for the delay, I'm sure you are anxious to hear, "What Cisco is looking for!"

Well check out some of the videos on my blog, which should explain the awesome and dynamic things that are happening.

People are in constant talk about the economy, gas prices, layoffs, etc., and how things are changing. And changing they are indeed, but one thing is for sure, Cisco is not slowing down!

We are moving like a locomotive!!! We're all very busy here in Staffing. If you've got your eyes set on Cisco here are some things you should know. Cisco is looking for the following:

Data Center Enterprise and Solution Architects
Video Conferencing support
Oracle Developers and Architects
CCIE Networking with Consulting services ability travel at least 40-60%
WebEX Sales
Service Provider Support
Call/Contact Center Project Management
Network Engineers with Secret Clearances/Poly's
Executive Admins with Project Management Skills, and this is just to name a few!

If you fit in any of these categories, please look on the right side of this blog and click on "FIND MY DREAM JOB" enter your resume and click search; the results should show you where your skills match globally.

Best of luck in your job search!

It's All about the Content Creation, Management, Distribution

LAS VEGAS, February 27, 2008 - Cisco® today announced the development of a new qualification program for media professionals looking to create trusted, optimized content for digital signage. The Cisco Academy of Digital Signage (ADS) will offer a specialized curriculum focusing on the three vital areas of digital signage: content creation, content management and content distribution. Enrollees are expected to include media professionals looking to add a marketable credential to their skill set, staff members of companies interested in creating digital signage content, and employees of Cisco channel partners planning to expand their digital signage solution capabilities.

Current Cisco content partners in North America with a focus on digital signage include Spinitar, PlayNetwork, PresentationPro and X-Factor Communications. Globally, partners such as MediaZest, Incidium, Dagobert and BlueFox have signed up for the academy.

"We value Cisco's contribution to developing content for the industry and feel this program is dedicated to the thousands of digital media professionals worldwide who are looking for ways to advance their skill set and achieve specializations in their areas of focus," said Kenneth Gisstennar, Spinitar's president. "We're excited to be working closely with Cisco to help develop a community of interest within the digital signage industry around content and become one of the first organizations to offer qualified media professionals to help move the industry forward."

After completing a three-day training program and passing the required tests, media professionals will receive a Cisco Qualified Digital Signage Media Professional (CQ DSMP) credential. This credential helps assure expertise in the following curriculum topics:


Content Creation will highlight best practices and methods for creating high-definition video on demand and network-broadcasted live video, multimedia and Web design, flash animations, still and animated images, text, dynamic content, and modular designs.


Content Management instruction will involve ingestion, organization, playlisting, dayparting and scheduling, and digital signage management and administration.


Content Distribution will include best practices and methods for content delivery networking, store-and-forward, IP multicasting, and streaming video (architecture, design and protocols).

"Digital signage is accelerating the momentum of the video revolution, and this program provides us with an enormous opportunity to help train the next wave of innovators and content professionals. Our aim is to help fill the content gap within the current ecosystem," said Thomas Wyatt, general manager of Digital Media Systems, Cisco. "Cisco's Academy of Digital Signage will give customers a trusted source for trained, qualified media professionals who can create compelling, optimized signage-ready content."

For more information please visit http://www.cisco.com/go/dms or contact ads_info@external.cisco.com. In addition, visit Cisco's booth 876 at the Digital Signage Exposition in Las Vegas, Nev. Cisco will be raffling off several scholarships for the new academy throughout the show.

I'll Take One Resume Super-Sized Please!

Yes, can you believe it! People are really creating "Resumes on Video!", And how is this all possible you ask? Cisco is one of many that have been working on bringing you new ways to communicate over the Internet.



Just as social networking has taken off, so has Video Conferencing. First it was telephone, cable and internet, soon will be asking for Video too.



So this candidate: Scott Blake has an interesting resume don't you think? If I were a PGA officer or Program Manager, I would call him in for an interview. So I know you're asking, "DO I HAVE TO DO THIS", to get a job;and the answer is maybe not now, but it's a huge possibility for the future.



We can not afford to be unprepared for the Evolution of Communication. First it was the Fax, then the Email, the Superhighway, Web/Intranet/Extranet, get ready for Video.



Here is some additional information on how Cisco is participating in Video Solutions for now and future:

Cisco provides customers of all sizes with a variety of IP-based video solutions for high-quality communications, collaboration, and learning. Today Cisco provides several types of solutions for video delivery and use on the network:
Two-way
Real-time collaboration
Real-time broadcasts and on-demand video to internal and external audiences
Video surveillance
Cisco also provides the proper infrastructure components and solutions to optimize video creation, management, transport, delivery, and display/access:
For live and on-demand broadcasts to internal and external audiences, the Cisco Digital Media System provides a comprehensive solution for compelling digital media creation, management, and access—for digital signage and desktop video.
For real-time collaboration, Cisco Unified Videoconferencing solutions and Cisco Telepresence effectively eliminate the barriers of time, distance, and resources, allowing people from around the world to function as if they were in the same room.
The Cisco Application and Content Networking System (ACNS) provides a flexible platform for streaming media and caching Web content to accelerate Web applications. ACNS integrates with the Cisco Digital Media System for optimal and smooth digital media delivery across the network.

What's Happening In Emerging Markets

Cisco recently set up in the Emerging Markets a new Strategic Sourcing team that is focusing on building a pipeline of Talents across our Theatre. We cover a large and diverse geographic zone including Latin America, Middle East Africa, RussiaCIS and Central Eastern Europe.

It is a very exciting time to work in Emerging Markets as these regions are each experiencing double-digit growth by transforming their societal landscape through the power of technology. So it is without saying how great the challenges and career opportunities can be!

The Emerging Markets grew 41% increase in FY 08, "Our strategy is to increase this rapid growth rate by focusing on replicable business models – repeatable, pre-integrated solutions developed in response to customer demands."

Cisco now have a team of 5 researchers (Sylwia, Julia, Draha, Susanna and Sebastian) headed up by Cat Over the last 6 months, the team has already achieved great successes around:

* Proactive sourcing: identifying the most effective sourcing channels for us, running innovative campaign and measuring success
* Market intelligence: build and share intelligence with the staffing team and managers about best practices, markets updates and developing our knowledge on new countries where we have never recruited before (currently working on Ethiopia for instance).
* Collaboration: coordinate communication and help the team to share knowledge and best practices at local, theatre level and globally.

We are on the look out of new talents across those regions in the following areas:
Account Managers
Business Development Manager
System Engineers
Network Consulting Engineers
HR and Finance professionals (most vacancies are based in the UK)

For any further information, please post your comment on Tangil's blog and leave your contact information and we will get back to you.


Thanks
Regards
Cat

IMPORTANT NEWS FOR THE BLOG READERS

Happy Friday!

Well i'm coming to you with some updates and important news.

First let's talk about that Tech Mixer last week. Wow! What a party! We had a lot of fun getting to know each other. There were Network Engineers there, Web Developers, PM-with Data Center experience, and we can't forget the Technical Librarians they were the bells of the ball!

All and all we had a turn out of about 15-20 people. I realize that some of you were not able to attend due to other obligations, bad timing, and most of you just had technical difficulties.

So in going forward if you are interested in learning more about up coming Virtual Mixers, instructions on how to get into "Second Life", please bookmark Laila Tomorrow's (my avatar) blog for future announcements http://ciscoadvocate.wordpress.com . You will find the link on this blog.

In addition to the Tech Mixer update, as of right now I will be working in a different capacity. I will continue to bring you updates on Career advice, Cisco news, words' from a Recruiter and most importantly open jobs;but my recruiting focus is different.

I will be supporting all business units of Cisco supplying them candidates in the Executive Administration space. So going forward you will see a mixture of reqs some that belong to me and others, not just technical in nature.

If you have questions, PLEASE DO NOT email me. Please post them on this site which I will check daily.

Until next time have a great Friday and awesome Weekend!

I currently recruit for our Remote Operations Services group (ROS).

The Remote Operations Service (ROS) group within Cisco provides remote management of enterprise customer networks. Our focus is helping customers monitor and manage their cutting edge technologies such as Unified Communications, Security and TelePresence, i.e. voice routers & switches, LAN Switches, firewalls, IPS, Cisco Unified CallManager, Cisco Unity voicemail and carrier links."

We drive growth and adoption of Cisco Advanced & Emerging Technologies through providing day two operating service to reduce customer risk of deployment and enabling partners to provide day two operations services also."

We typically look for candidates with experience in a Network Operations Center or a Technical Assistance Center. We love to see certifications such as CCNA or CCNP, along with technical skills equivalent to CCIE level, outstanding customer skills, and a very strong desire to learn and develop technically. Strong working knowledge in Security, Routing, Switching and/or IP Telephony is definitely a plus.Whether you’re searching for a position with Cisco or another company, here are some things to keep in mind when searching for a new job.

Be prepared and more prepared. Have an answering machine or voicemail with a professional greeting. Have an up-to-date resume – even if you’re not currently looking for work. You never know when you’ll hear of an opportunity you just can’t pass up – and you’ll need to act quickly. Have references ready.Use search engines, if you don’t already – let the job postings come to you.Use your network – this can be a valuable tool as many jobs aren’t advertised.

Use the “offline” approach connecting with friends, former employers, peers, teachers, professors, etc. to ask for referrals. Everyone usually knows someone who can help.When you interview, use this opportunity to find out as much as you can about your fit with the culture of company to which you are applying.

Want To Enhance Your Career? Get Anytime Access Training!

Tips for enhancing your career can come in many suggested forms, such as, "Go back to School, or Join an alumni or association in your industry or field".

As I speak to various professionals in this industry; Sales Executives, Marketing Pioneers, Network Engineers, Enterprise Architects, Sr. PMPs and the like, the common factor that they look for in enhancing their career is "Training".

In today's ever changing job market, making yourself familiar with Web 2.0 techniques is essential in keeping your information circulating in the recruiting community. Even as we speak, the Web 2.0 tools of 2007 are already moving to the next beta version. For example, last year I was introduced to Wiki's, blogs, etc., already candidates and other staffing firms are catching on to the Web 2.0 buzz and starting to create personal video branding resumes and recruiting commercials via the Internet.

I've recently learned that Cisco Systems, understands the need for Training on their products and technology as well as the need to make it available to people via the Internet.

Cisco Learning Connection has an anytime access to training available on their corporate site which helps Internet professionals learn more effectively and eliminates the travel costs of traditional instruction. The free content here complements Cisco training available through authorized Cisco Learning Partners worldwide.

There is a wide range of products and technologies they share with you via VODs (video on demand).

Available To Explore:

Application Networking Services
Broadband Cable Cisco IOS Software
IP Routing
Networking Fundamentals
Network Management
Optical Networking
Routers
Routing Protocols
Security and VPN
Server Networking and Virtualization
Storage Networking
Switches Universal Gateways and Access ServersVideo
Voice and Unified Communications
Wireless

I'm Packed and Ready To Go!

Cisco's UK & France Recruiters are talking about blogging!



I just had the pleasure of meeting my HR Recruiting peers in the UK and France offices. Even though it was a virtual meeting, it was a delightful experience. I was so excited to meet them that I've taken the liberty of packing my bags and I'm ready to go! "Cat", just say the word!

We learned about features and benefits of blogging and how we can all use it to collaborate and optimize our efforts. For those of you who are not familiar with blogging, there are a ton of reasons why it proves to be beneficial; And no I won't go through them all, but what I can say is don't blog just to blog, really give it some thought, do some research first and then prepare yourself for new beginnings, new friendships and new ways of communicating.

For those that are interested here are a few tips from the experts:

1) It's a commitment that will require 1-2 hours twice a week

2) Know your platform, know your audience and you content will be more effective

3) Reply to posted comments within 24 hours

4) You can't really expect to see any ROI for 4-8 months


The more educated a candidate becomes about "fishing where the fish are"(through social networking), knowing the company's hiring process & recruiting cycle, getting educated on the Products and Services of the organization; the better their chances will be of getting their information in the hands of the right people.

The word of the day is, "Blogging", not just for recruiters but for candidates as well! It benefits everyone. I just read an article, on how blogging is suppose to be the next "resume". Not sure if that is true, but I do know, it is a great place for personal branding whatever your platform maybe.

The Emerging Markets group are eagerly seeking Account Managers, Sales managers, Systems Engineers and Project Managers for their region. Stay tuned for words from the HR manager who will give you some tips on what they are looking for. As well as some additional Bloggers highlighted on my page. Their territory covers:

CEE – Central & Eastern Europe
MEA – Middle East & Africa
RCIS – Russia and states of former Soviet union

Some of the places you can find my UK & France Recruiting peers are LinkedIn, FaceBook, Plaxo, Ryze, Ecademy, Xing, Viadio, Konnects, and soon right here on my blogspot!


Simply blogging has led me into collaboration discussions with some awesome Recruiters, if you try it you might have the same success.

Got questions on blogging, leave a comment on this post!