Monday, November 2, 2015

The Government Contractor Spotlight Series - Featuring: reStart Inc.

JENNIFER SCHAUS & ASSOCIATES

THE GOVERNMENT CONTRACTOR
SPOTLIGHT SERIES 
Feature #1 – November 2015

Company Spotlight:  reStart, Inc.



Jennifer Schaus recently sat down with Ken Fuller of reStart to learn more about his business and his firm’s role in government contracting.

JS: Ken, thanks for taking the time to sit down with us.  Tell our 5,000+ readers in the DC metro area what inspired you to start your business.
KF: After many years of producing hiring events for professionals with active security clearance, I realized that job seekers & employers needed more.  Instead of the same dialogue,  same companies & the same people, we set out to create an environment that would generate opportunities for actual interviews, networking & applicable workshops & seminars relevant to today’s job market.   

JS: Brilliant! So, it’s more than just a job fair. How does the day flow and what is the format? 
KF: To begin, reStart is designed for professionals seeking new employment, on a contract that’s coming to an end or those who wish to build a foundation for future career development.  Attendees have the opportunity to meet industry-leading employers, discover hiring practices & culture of each respective company, network & acquire beneficial tips & techniques. 

Each exhibitor receives access to the resumes of pre-registered attendees 1 week prior to the event, allowing them to identify candidates who match their available positions. Our team then coordinates 1-on-1 interviews for every employer during our private interview.  reStart’s hiring event also provides an open atmosphere to interact & explore career opportunities & we then conclude with a networking reception.

JS: A value packed day for everyone!  That’s a lot to manage.   Do you think your business or personal background helps you in running the business? 
KF: Absolutely; after 14 years of producing similar events, I knew it was time to create a recharged experience for employers & job seekers alike... it was time for a reStart!  We already have 8 events planned for next year.

JS: Very impressive and 2016 will be busy for you.  Did you face any challenges or hurdles when you first started?
KF: One of the major hurdles was coming up with a new format that would give both the employers & job seekers the best chance possible to interact both privately & in a social setting. At every event, the challenge is always going to be attracting qualified professionals who are seeking a career change, company change or who are actively seeking employment, & all of whom possess an active security clearance.  By taking the time to understand what each exhibitor was in search of, then identifying professionals with those skills & attributes for them and inviting them personally to our events, the rooms were filled with the right people.

JS: Your formula certainly works.  Have you had any memorable moments in the business?
KF: Earlier this year, we were asked by the Soldier for Life Transition Assistance Program from Fort Meade to produce an event for transitioning men & women.  It gave me great pleasure to be able to give something back to the brave men & women by helping them find a career after service.  When I hear about a person being hired from one of our exhibitors, or from a candidate who received a job offer, those are times that make me smile & I know that I am making a difference.

JS: reStart makes it easy for both employers, job seekers and Veterans. This makes for a busy life. Where can we find you when you are not working? 
KF: Almost all of my downtime is spent with my amazing wife & two delicious daughters.  I do try and squeeze in some tennis or golf when possible, but it’s mostly family time.

JS: Sounds great and that’s what it is about at the end of the day!  Let’s learn more about you personally. Tell us something non-business related.
KF: I played varsity tennis from junior high school through high school & was a ranked teen by the USTA.  I played some in college, but ultimately found my calling off the court. 

JS: You sure did and hit a winner – game, set, match!  What closing thoughts do you wish to share with our readers? 
KF:  Our final Interview Event of the year is being held on Monday, November 9th, in BWI at the Sheraton on Old Eldridge Landing Road. We have an outstanding lineup of exhibitors.  Other services from our Private Client Group, such as Open House recruitment events, direct email campaigns & resume database access, are also offered.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT http://www.reStartevents.com

TO HAVE YOUR FIRM FEATURED IN THE GOVERNMENT CONTRACTORS SPOTLIGHT SERIES, PLEASE EMAIL THE MARKETING TEAM AT JENNIFER SCHAUS & ASSOCIATES FOR DETAILS: Hello@JenniferSchaus.com