Career centers have been a “nice-to-have” feature for many associations, especially if they are charging fees for companies to list openings. During 2020, however, a greater number of members have turned to job boards – in many cases, to look for positions rather than post them.
The growing importance of job boards presents association leaders with an opportunity to offer a valuable service that will benefit members and non-members who are allowed to access the listings as well.
There are few industries that have suffered during the pandemic as much as the hospitality and restaurant industries with the loss of businesses and jobs occurring throughout the country. The Pennsylvania Restaurant and Lodging Association has a traditional job board that lists specific openings for restaurant and hospitality positions in the state, but has also included a special page devoted to temporary and transitional work opportunities that includes a list of reputable companies that have announced hiring events and open positions. This extra resource is especially valuable to PRLA members who may not be able to find jobs in their field due to the contraction of the industry during pandemic restrictions on opening. The page also directs visitors to the National Labor Exchange’s new resource: Need a Job Now.
Three other examples of career centers that add value to membership are:
- Home Care Association of America’s career center offers a searchable list of positions available nationwide and provides information about the opportunities for growth in the field.
- The Colorado Mining Association offers a traditional, searchable job listing but also offers a suite of resources that include tips on resume writing, preparing for an interview, networking and negotiating a job.
- The Colorado Nursery and Greenhouse Association offers a “classifieds” page that includes local listings of positions as well as a list of other horticulture- and landscape-related job sites.
When designing or enhancing a career center, be sure to get feedback from members to determine what they need – as an employer and as a job seeker.
