By Meg Merriman, Gazette Writer
HOUGHTON — After receiving almost 200 responses from area residents, Virginia-based market research firm Issues and Answers has decided to make Houghton home for its latest call center.
Company President Peter McGuinness said the company received just under 200 calls in response to an advertisement in The Daily Mining Gazette. Houghton beat out Gaylord and Menominee, Mich., for the coveted call center.
Negotiations ended Wednesday and it is confirmed that the call center will take over 4,500 square feet in the new Red Ridge Plaza on Sharon Avenue. McGuinness said the target date for a grand opening is May 15 and the company will be looking to fill between 100 and 120 positions before then.
Working in conjunction with Michigan Works!, the company’s Vice President of Human Resources Maida Tipping will visit Houghton Monday through Wednesday to interview for manager and administrator positions.
Tipping will also hold information sessions at Finlandia and Michigan Tech universities Tuesday and Wednesday evenings.
McGuinness said the company is looking for a mixed set of employees, including students and families looking to supplement a primary income with a second job.
“This type of job is ideal for households that need a second income where the primary wage earner works all day. The other spouse can leave at five or six (o’clock) and work four to five hours a few nights a week,” he said. “Also, representatives from Finlandia and Michigan Tech have told us that the schedule fits in very well with students.”
According to McGuinness, the company will be interviewing for call center positions during the week of April 24.
Applicants must have good vocal skills and be able to type about 25 words per minute, as well as pass a background check.
Applicants will be informed of a decision within a week.
McGuinness said Issues and Answers will have a positive impact on the Houghton community by utilizing local vendors for supplies and providing jobs for Houghton area residents.
“The number one thing we’re interested in is providing jobs in communities that need jobs,” he said.
For more information about the sessions being held at Michigan Tech and Finlandia, call Issues and Answers at 800-720-4135.
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