NETWORKING EMERGENCY!

[DeadBishop]

I posted about this on my LJ, but posting it here too.  I need help to find a new job, ASAP.  My boss just told me he's not going to give me time off for fest.  I'm tired of being pushed around and taken advantage of.  This is the last straw.  I need some serious networking help from all of my friends here in hopes that it might help me find a job before the end of August.  ANYTHING.  Just send it my way. 

[groomporter]

A couple local joblines I've been watching

https://www.minnesotaworks.net/

http://www.minnesotajoblist.com/

[Gauwyn of Bracknell]

What kind of work are you looking for? (I'm still new here)

[DeadBishop]

Honestly, just about anything at this point.  I'd like to get out of retail though, or at least find something that will let me have weekends off when I ask for them.

[Sorcha]

We were just at Best Buy last night and they had a "Now Hiring" sign up.  They seemed desperate.  I did a quick check on their web site and they look to have a ton of jobs posted.  I know it's retail, but at least it's a larger store and you'd have a better chance of getting weekends off or at least finding someone to cover for you.
They have a bunch of postings for their Geek Squad department.  Even the Coon Rapids store!  You have the camera, PC and even Mac (I think) background.  Just an idea.
Thinking good thoughts for you!
M~

From the Best Buy site:
Geek Squad Agents will work in a fast paced retail environment performing computer-related installations and technical support. Although sales will not be your primary function, let's just face it, when our customers spot a sharp technical mind dressed like an Agent, they can't help but ask a few technology questions. Geek Squad Agents should have the ability to interact with customers while showing respect, courtesy and professionalism. Responsibilities: Assist customers with service/repair issues within the Standard Operating Platform (SOP) of the Precinct. Provides the initial contact with customers, checks in product, and runs basic tests to determine product needs and service solutions. Facilitates the complete solution of product sales, upgrades, installations and service in the store. Is expected to personify and uphold the Geek Squad service standards.
Proof of Apple certifications (current or expired) or laptop repair training are both a strong plus. Basic Requirements: The ability to troubleshoot and resolve Windows XP/Vista and basic Apple OS X problems is preferred. Apple hardware certifications are a strong plus. Linux experience is a plus since it is required to perform many Data Rescue services. Lack of Linux and Mac experience will not disqualify candidates, training is provided. * DOS, Windows 9x/ME/2000/XP or Apple MacOS * Troubleshooting of Operating Systems and Internet connection issues * Knowledge of computer hardware diagnostic and troubleshooting * Software installations and upgrading * Can install / troubleshoot all computer-related devices (video, sound, modem, printer, scanner, camera, etcetera.) * Have the ability to research online and work through problems

[DeadBishop]

I've applied several times to Best Buy for various positions without luck.  Several times with Geek Squad too.  Even with my on the job experience, it just wasn't enough for them.  Besides, many of the regular positions at Best Buy wouldn't be able to pay what I need to even pay the bills.  Retail jobs are easier to get, but I haven't found any that would be comparable to what I make now, being that I've been there 14 years, and that's not exactly a lot since they haven't given me a raise in over six years.

[Nikita]

Know how you feel Bishop, once again not working

[William_MacKean]

www.indeed.com

[Leyla]

Even if you've applied to the Geek Squad in the past, it might not hurt to apply again. HR people turn over all the time and you might have new eyes checking out your resume.

Also, especially in today's market, don't settle for just filling out an application. You may already do this, but I figure it doesn't hurt to pass it on anyways.  HR may or may not send your resume to the hiring manager for the department. It never hurts to contact the department manager directly. I'd applied at Allina several times in the past without hearing back. This last time I had a friend get me the manager's name and email for the floor I was applying for. After filling out the online app, I emailed her my cover letter and resume, I heard from HR within hours after doing that! Another friend of mine, who I gave this advice to had been trying to get a TA position. She called the school principal directly and was able to get an interview after having no luck with their HR department.  Also, I know they're totally sappy, but cover letters are important tools for customizing your application to the place you're applying. 

DB, you're awesome in person.  If you haven't in the past you should bring the resume and cover letter into Geek Squad in person and hand deliver it to the manager there.  It further shows how motivated you are to work for them.

I'm sorry if this sounds preachy. It's hard to try and offer advice via typing, with no tone and stuff. I'm just trying to help.     Good luck with the hunt!

[escherblacksmith]

Okay, so you've done retail, but what are you really up for?

As a For Instance Wells Fargo (may be currently down) has a bunch of jobs, many of the customer service / collections variety, which you may or may not want to do, but they also have some managerial positions and other stuff you might be qualified for . . .

Is you resume' somewhere online that can be viewed?  Assuming you would want any of us to know your dark work history secrets . . . perhaps that stint as a Abercrombie and Fitch model back in the 90s?

[Aaroncois]

Yeah, like the Wells Fargo idea above, my comment was going to be that you need to get into the business/financial sector rather than the retail/service sector if you want to avoid weekends. I don't know your skillset so I can't comment further, but basically it looks like you need to find an office-job or something along those lines.

[Lady_Lily]

I know this doesn't provide anything stable, but you may find a lead with a temp agency. I personally have had a challenge with them not moving fast enough, but I think the best thing the agencies have done for me is have me taking the tests required for positions like data entry and things like that. The free service has allowed me to add things to my resume like how many words per minute I type, my skills level in microsoft word, etc., which is important to potential employers. They are free services and they could get you somewhere...give them a try just to add something else to your potential.

http://www.prostaff.com
http://www.therightstaff.com
http://www.expresspros.com

[MissBubu]

After dealing with hiring through the normal routes, the company I work for decided a few years ago that we would hire office staff through temp agencies. It's kind of a "try before you buy" deal that works for both parties.

If you're looking for something short-term, Renaissance Fireworks might still be hiring.