"A bad economy is nature's way of thinning the heard. It gets bad businesses and people who shouldn't be in business and it gets them out of the way," said Bonsizio.
The result is an unique opportunity to hire good, experienced workers who lost their jobs because of cutbacks or downsizing.
Bonizio employs three dozen people in his three Bronx locations. 32-years in business have educated him on the qualities of the ideal job candidate. A problem-solver who communicates well and expertly sells the product, the practice and one other thing.
"If they don't sell themselves to me, I don't want them working here. Because if you can't sell me in the most important interview you're on, how are you doing to sell to a patient when you're interviewing them for what type of glasses they want," adds Bonizio.
And it's not just the small employer who wants to hear your best sales pitch.
The Einstein school of medicine in Morris Park is one of the largest employers in the Bronx. Right now there are about 100 open jobs there from administrative assistants to research technicians to data analysts. The director of human resources told Eyewitness News, if you don't highlight your past successes, ask about the position, and exhibit an upbeat personality, don't expect to get the job.
"We need people who demonstrate passion and speak with conviction about what they do. So if they do that in the interview, chances are they will bring that to their work as well," says Tracey Wilmot.
Personnel directors and career counselors shared a list of things employers look for in a job candidate. Your resume must be error-free. One mistake and it's in the shredder.
Be prepared for the interview. That means research the company and then ask questions.
As for appearance, a pressed suit, a firm hand-shake and eye contact go a long way. Also no piercings, and no exposed tattoos.
Rebecca Hoda-Kearse is the director of career services at Hostos Community College. She says employers in the Bronx demand bi-lingual candidates with basic computer skills who work well with others. "They're not compromising on those things at this point. If people don't have all of those things together, they're not taking them," says Hoda-Kearse.
