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On Wednesday January 9th, 2013 Ryan Parsons of The Brothers that just do Gutters met with Aaron Armisto’s Computer Graphic class to discuss important interview tactics. The students were asked to answer various interview questions and were given helpful suggestions on how to perfect their answers. Students were later given the opportunity to sit down with Ryan for one-on-one mock interviews.
“I don’t think you can prepare enough for this process,” said Parsons. “I am so happy to see that BOCES is investing in its students this way. The skills being taught at BOCES are more relevant than what most colleges offer.”
Ryan credits BOCES for having such a big impact on his college career. As a youth Ryan was always drawing. He loved art in high school, and excelled in it beyond every other class. Faced with graduation and the impending decision to choose a career path, Ryan’s father brought his portfolio to a teacher at BOCES. “She took one look and said you have to go to art school,” said Ryan. And as they say the rest was history. Ryan graduated from SUNY New Paltz with a degree in Graphic Design and Fine Art.
Ryan worked in the graphic design field for several years before leaving to help his brother Ken build his vision of becoming a household name gutter company. Today they are the largest gutter company in the area with locations in three different states and millions in sales revenue per year. “You never know what you’ll end up doing, but the skills you’ve acquired will help in whatever you do,” said Ryan.
This is one of the many lessons Ryan shared with the students that day. Besides the obvious interview tips such as “dress professionally” and “do your research” Ryan addressed interview tips commonly overlooked. Ryan advised students to treat everyone you meet as if they are the person hiring you. Stating, “never look past the secretary or other office staff. They could have a role in your possible hire. If they liked you, they’re inclined to say so.”
Students were thrilled to be getting tips from someone in the industry. Nathaly Uruchima from Lakeland said Ryan’s talk was “interesting and informative.” Stating she learned “different employers look for different things during the interview process.”
The Brothers that just do Gutters pride themselves on giving back to the community. Teaching students how to address their future employer during an interview is a skill many overlook; yet it is a key factor in being successful.
“I thought it was a great experience for my students,” said Mr. Armisto. “They were excited to learn about how to better their job interview skills and Ryan did a great job meeting their expectations. My students and myself were impressed with the insightful tips Ryan had for the job interview. Overall, I was very pleased with his level of professionalism. Having Ryan as a guest speaker will be part of my curriculum from now on.”
To book Ryan or Ken for a speaking engagement, please call 845-223-6111.