JENNIFER SCHAUS & ASSOCIATES
THE GOVERNMENT CONTRACTOR
SPOTLIGHT
SERIES
Feature #1 – November 2015
Company Spotlight: reStart, Inc.
Website: http://www.reStart.com
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