Hundreds explore industry opportunities
(NEW YORK) – More than 500 students, job seekers and industry veterans attended GIA’s 26th annual Jewelry Career Fair on July 24. Sponsored by Jewelers of America at the Javits Center in New York City, this free, one-day-only event was an opportunity for attendees to connect with companies through an opening keynote presentation, one-on-one career coaching sessions and networking with nearly 50 recruiters.
GIA President and CEO Susan M. Jacques moderated the panel “Job Success in Today’s Market” featuring industry leaders offering specific advice to aspiring gem and jewelry professionals on the importance of relationships, education and persistence.
“Clients, especially at the luxury level, are looking for authority; they’re looking for trust and they’re looking for a relationship,” said Hank Siegel, president and CEO of Hamilton Jewelers. “I love being able to celebrate with our clients … to take care of them and to serve multiple generations who come to our stores to celebrate special events.”
Regina Ciarleglio, director of retail development for Worthy Inc., spoke on the importance of education in the industry. “[Education] should be part of your ongoing world today, tomorrow and forever,” said Carleglio. “Learn about the business you serve … [and] what your customers are asking about, because then you can talk to them a little better and understand where they are coming from.”
Elliot Tannenbaum, senior principal of Leo Schachter Diamond Group and a member of the GIA Board of Governors, spoke on the importance of persistence and the lessons he learned through his decades of experience. “There is a common denominator to success in all of the parts of the diamond industry – the industry is all based around people, passion and persistence.”
Marion Fasel, founder and editorial director of TheAdventurine.com, and Mary Feliciano, recent GIA graduate now working in technical product development for Signet Jewelers Ltd., rounded out the panel. Following the opening session, job seekers had the opportunity to meet with recruiters and have one-on-one career coaching with specialists in appraising, design, gemstones, manufacturing, marketing, retail and more.
Sonia Chaves, GIA manager of talent acquisition, meets with an applicant during the 2017 GIA Jewelry Career Fair in New York. Photo © GIA
The success of GIA’s Jewelry Career Fair over the past 26 years is due to the generous mentorship of career coaches, expertise of panelists and participation of recruiters. The next event will take place in Carlsbad on Friday, Oct. 13. For more details, visit www.gia.edu/career-fair or e-mail careerfair@gia.edu. Follow @GIANews #JewelryJobs for updates.
