Coming Full Circle

About a year ago I left my previous company and went out into the world to search for meaningful work. Along the way I applied for and received unemployment insurance benefits. Say what you want about government agencies, applying for UI benefits in New York City is a breeze. A few clicks to register and voila! After the initial set-up all you have to do is process your weekly claim via their online portal. Simple and efficient--what's not to like?

The only hitch (if you can truly call it that) to this process is the one-time in-person orientation you have to attend in order to preserve your unemployment status. So on the day I was scheduled I went to the office I was assigned to.

Sitting in an unemployment center. I'm a reconfigured variable in a familiar equation. Now on supply-side when previously I was demand-side.
— Victorio Milian (@Victorio_M) October 27, 2011

Again, I was mildly surprised. The staff was professional and helpful, the setting was well designed to meet the needs of its clients, and the process didn't last terribly long.

Interesting to observe how an agency I've partnered with in the past conducts business on behalf of its clients. Professional and courteous.
— Victorio Milian (@Victorio_M) October 27, 2011

Also find myself critiquing the presentation made by the Intake Specialist. I enjoyed that she outlined responsibility of each party.
— Victorio Milian (@Victorio_M) October 27, 2011

She clearly outlined how staff would treat clients with respect and courtesy as they helped them gain employment. Quickly put group at ease.
— Victorio Milian (@Victorio_M) October 27, 2011

She made it clear that they had to reciprocate. Also emphasized that their success was their responsibility. Dress and act appropriately!
— Victorio Milian (@Victorio_M) October 27, 2011

Clearly, with the economy and unemployment being what it was and continues to be, the powers-that-be put together a reasonable program to meet the challenge. For me, they provided the right amount of service through channels that were easy to use, as well as helpful.

Now I'm back on my feet and have come full circle in many respects. This Wednesday I'll be hosting a job fair at the exact agency where I appeared for my unemployment orientation the year prior. As a Recruitment Manager I'm now in the position to potentially give back, not only to those seeking work, but to the agency and its workers that supported me through my journey. I'm looking forward to this and future opportunities to make a dent in this unemployment situation.

Good luck to all the candidates!