Name: Courtney Freya Zener
Job Title/Employer: Branch Trainer/Recruiter - CulverCareers
Year of Graduation: 2004
Degree/Major: B.A./Theater
 
What kind of recruiting do you do for your company?
I recruit for entry level to experienced C-level executive candidates (CEO, COO, etc.) and introduce them to industry leading, opportunity-driven sales and management organizations ranging from Fortune 1000 to established privately held firms.  I recruit on a nationwide basis, with a primary focus on Phoenix and Tucson.
 
Who is your company's ideal recruiting candidate?
We look at candidates with a wide variety of backgrounds. There is not one specific type of sales background we recruit for in this market.

Coming out of college it is always helpful to have retail sales, customer service, or activities, sports, club affiliations on your resume. Believe it or not, the 6 months spent bartending or serving tables can help land a job, just as easily as any practical internship. We evaluate intangibles, such as being outgoing, competitive, a risk taker, enthusiastic, and personable.

What strengths do Arizona State University graduates bring to the hiring table as job candidates?
We live in a growing city where students are often exposed to more diverse work experiences than are typically found in traditional work-study programs. This allows them to relate to career positions on a more professional level. ASU students also come from a variety of backgrounds and cultures and are more prepared to adapt to changing work environments.

What can current students or alumni do to improve their chances of finding work with (or through) your company?

• Keeping an open mind when exploring new opportunities. There is often more to the position or company than you will see at first glance.
• Take a risk, whether you are seeking your first opportunity out of college or making a change to your current career don’t limit yourself or screen out. You learn more about what you will want in a position after meeting with a company.
• Remain realistic.

Any other job hunting secrets you'd like to share?

• Familiarize yourself with your market (city/state/industry/corporate trends).
• Use your network—you never know who may have a connection you can use.
• Find and work with a recruiter. They tend to be very well networked in their area of specialty and can help to get your resume and experience in front of the decision makers. Also, there should never be a fee to work with a qualified recruiter.