Backstory: For years, Irais Valenzuela worked at the Rock
County Job Center as a job developer, helping connect employers and employees.
Working independently doing similar work was the logical next step. “The sky is
the limit. If I work hard, I will succeed; it’s all up to me,” said Valenzuela.
Differentiator: While the vast majority of her work is via state
contract, Valenzuela also helps individual clients uncover employment
opportunities, craft cover letters and resumes, practice job interviews, and
more. Valenzuela’s slogan is “helping people help themselves,” and that is
exactly what she does, having placed five of her six independent clients thus
far, with the sixth negotiating a better salary at his current job.
World Domination: Bilingual and well connected, Valenzuela is
positioned to expand her services quickly. “Mike Mathews is wonderful. He
always responds right away and is always helpful. The support we receive
here—from Mike, the board and our neighbors—is an incredible springboard to
growth,” said Valenzuela.
Next Steps: “My job is to connect people with employment. Going
forward I would like to expand my individual client work while simultaneously
connecting with additional area companies to form formal employment outreach
programs. Once companies understand how much this can simplify hiring and
increase retention it becomes very attractive—getting that first meeting to
educate is the key,” said
Valenzuela.
Takeaways: Don’t be afraid to ask. “The worst that can happen
is people will say no. Someone will eventually say yes,” said Valenzuela.
Visit www.facebook.com/ivquestemployment or ivquest.us to learn more.
Editor's Note: Catch Irais Valenzuela at the Economic Development & Diversity Summit co-hosted by MadREP and the Urban League of Greater Madison on May 14, 2015! She'll sit on a panel discussing innovation and entrepreneurship.
Editor's Note: Catch Irais Valenzuela at the Economic Development & Diversity Summit co-hosted by MadREP and the Urban League of Greater Madison on May 14, 2015! She'll sit on a panel discussing innovation and entrepreneurship.
