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Scott Burnett, 29: Production manager
About the employer: Paint Pro Inc., based in Overland Park since its founding by brothers Bill and Brian Ruisinger in 1994, not only does commercial and residential interior/exterior painting, but also wood rot repair, window/door replacement and repair, fiber-cement siding installation, guttering, garage doors and remodeling.
My role: As production manager, I am responsible for everything from supervision of the foremen and crew to facilitating communication between the salespeople and customers. My varied tasks also include ordering supplies and making sure all facets of this busy company are running smoothly.
How long have you been in this position?
Since Feb. 15.
How did you find your job?
Through an ad in The Kansas City Star (CareerBuilder). After calling the company, I both faxed and mailed in an application. Later, I got a phone call from Brian Ruisinger, one of the co-owners, and had a lengthy phone interview with him. We then set up a time to talk face to face. A few days later, he called me back and asked me to come in to meet with him and his brother. We had an hourlong interview and I got a job offer at the end of it. I thought about it over the weekend and called on Monday to accept.
By the end of this process, I felt totally familiar with the company.
What helped the most in the job search?
Every day, I looked at the newspaper and followed up on job applications. CareerBuilder was a great fact-finding tool, but then you also need to research the company and make personal contact with a phone call.
What was most helpful in your obtaining this particular job?
Previously, I did sales for a foundation repair company. Before that, I ran my own painting company. Those experiences helped completely in my getting this job. I know the ins and outs of dealing with customers, ordering supplies.
Did you reach a low point in this process?
No, I didn’t actually reach a low point, but it is discouraging to not get any response after you’ve applied for a job. That happened on a number of occasions. I would have appreciated at least a “no.”
What is your educational and work experience?
I have a bachelor’s degree in management from Missouri State University (2002), in Springfield.