News & Events

Pirate's Eye On...Nick Malefyt '92
Seton Hall > News & Events 

Tuesday, March 17, 2009
by: Isabel Bauer

The interpersonal and investigative skills Malefyt acquired while double-majoring in

Nick Malefyt '92

psychology and criminal justice 17 years ago have led him to a fulfilling career in the staffing industry. 
 
Malefyt's first job was in social services. As the assistant manager of a group home facility for men with autism, his work hours lasted from the afternoon until late at night. “I learned a great deal in that position, but after two-plus years, decided I really wanted a `day' job so I could teach martial arts in the evenings,” says Malefyt.
 
With the help of his wife, Donna (Vallone) '95, who works in the placement industry, he interviewed with a recruiter from Lorelei Personnel who felt Malefyt would be an asset to the staffing industry. The firm's owner agreed wholeheartedly and hired him. “That was 15 years ago. The rest is history,” says Malefyt, who moved on to work for Career Center Inc. nine years ago.
 
Now the general manager of Career Center Inc., Malefyt has an insider's perspective on employment in the current economy. Malefyt's biggest challenge is meeting people that he “genuinely likes” but “just can't place.” In those cases, Malefyt always tries to direct them to others who might be able to help.
 
Even though many industries are going through a contraction, Malefyt points out that the healthcare industry and “green” companies -- those focused on energy conservation and expanding the use of renewable energy -- are doing well. Besides, he says, “positions in sales and accounting are always in demand. Employers are always looking to increase profits and reduce costs.”
 
In his personal life, one of Malefyt's passions is Taekwon-Do. He has studied this martial art form for 28 years, and its philosophy has seeped into his work; specifically, he incorporates its five tenets -- courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self control and indomitable spirit -- into what he does. “The confidence and discipline martial arts teach have also enabled me to work effectively with people at all levels,” he says.
 
“At Seton Hall, several classes and professors directly impacted who I am today.” He cites Rev. Peter Lennon, professor emeritus of psychology, as just one example. He also says he learned the “importance of networking and effective communication skills” at the University. Most important, he made lifelong friends, and met wife Donna (with whom he raises seven-year-old Nicholas and two-year-old Christopher in West Caldwell, NJ.)
 
Helpful Hints
Malefyt shares his insights for finding jobs -- and great employees -- in the current environment.
 
For Job Seekers

• Stay positive. Forget about the current job market. Don't let what is happening get you frustrated. It will surely come across during an interview. Believe in yourself and your abilities and you will be fine.
• Be proactive. Don't wait for opportunities to open up. Create them for yourself. Identify industries and/or employers that you would like to work for and make a connection at the company.
• Network. Ask everyone you interview or network with if there is anyone they know of who could benefit from your skills. If you don't ask you may never find out.
  

 
For Employees

• Keep your feelers out there. You never know when another opportunity will present itself.
• Keep your resume handy and up-to-date. You never know when you are going to need it. 
• Follow your instincts. If you feel it is time to go -- and you can line up something better -- go.
  

 
For Job Providers
“Employees are what really make a business thrive,” says Malefyt. “Invest in finding the right people. There are many people who fabricate their resume out of desperation these days.”

• Do due diligence. Make sure you are thoroughly screening your candidates.
• Be sure to verify education, relative licensures and certifications.
• Conduct thorough background checks that include professional references.
  

For more information about Career Center Inc., please contact Nick Malefyt at 201-342-1777 (extension 224) or via email at nick@careercenterinc.com.

For more information please contact:
Alumni Relations
(800) 992-4723
alumni@shu.edu