The economy has impacted employment in such negative fashion that the unemployment rate in some areas of the US has reached more than 15%. Everyone, no matter what industry is one day from being amongst the masses of those that have lost their job and are trying to find work in a dismal environment. I recently met someone who was unemployed recently for about 6 weeks and was offered 4 job offers before her severance ran our from her other job. I asked her, "how can you have four job offers from some amazing companies during a period in which thousands have been looking for employment for years." The answer rolled off her tongue like poetry: "One has to be comfortable in being uncomfortable."
She expounded:
1. Increase Education: This is a perfect time to re-tool and also purchase some new tools for your tool box. There are several occupations that are still increasing and having a hard time finding employees. She mentioned several in the health care profession like; Surgical Technicians, EKG Technicians and RN's. She said that there are a lot of older displaced people who are feeling uncomfortable with going back to school and being the oldest person in the classroom. The truth of the matter is that there are several institutions offering the two-year certification program with the vast amount of students being adult learners. "Being comfortable being uncomfortable."
2. Willing to relocate: The next bit of advice that she offered was that one must go where the jobs are. She relocated her entire family even though she had all her family living in the same town as her. The work was somewhere else and with a job she would be able to afford to buy a ticket to fly home and see her family. Staying in her home town, she would not be able to even afford to put gas in her car to visit her mother. She was very clear that the idea of moving is scary and for some does not just seem reasonable or might seem rash and without reason. In the same breath she mentioned that these economic times were unheard of some 8 years ago and one must truly think outside the box. "Being comfortable with being uncomfortable."
3. Network Differently: The last point that she made was that one must network differently than they had in the past. "Networking the way one did in the past got them the job they are currently out of. That network pipeline may not be able to provide much more than a lead in the same direction, but what you may need is something in an entirely new direction which would require new networking tactics. You need to put your place in environments where those who you will network with make you feel uncomfortable in the fact that they may not look like you, may have more money than you and may help you."
Monday, October 25, 2010
Thursday, May 20, 2010
25 Ways to Sabotage Your Job Search
25 Ways to Sabotage Your Job Search
Anthony Balderrama, CareerBuilder.com writer
1. Assuming you'll never need to look for another job
You love your current job and that's great. If you're happy there and see a promising future, I hope you never have to leave. Nevertheless, you should always be prepared for the day you have to move on. Even if the boss loves you, things can change. Buyouts, economic disasters or changes in leadership can affect your employment. Continue to update your résumé while you're employed so that you have an accurate record of your accomplishments.
2. Burning bridges
We love the scenes in movies where the disgruntled employee finally tells off the boss and storms out of the office, only to live a happy, fulfilling life. In real life, these idols are probably unemployed because they don't have good references, and no employer wants to hire someone with a tarnished reputation.
3. Keeping mum on your job search
Most people aren't keen on being unemployed, and if you were laid off it's understandable that you don't want to spend all your time talking about it. But you need to network; it's one of the most effective ways to find a job. A friend of a friend of a friend often gets you the interview that lands you the job -- but that won't happen if no one knows you're looking for new career opportunities.
4. Looking for "The One"
Although you want to conduct a focused job search, you need to keep an open mind. With any luck, you'll land the perfect gig, but sometimes you have to take a job that possesses most of the qualities you want -- not all of them. If the pay is right, the requirements are in line with your experience and the opportunities for promotion are good, then you might have to overlook the fact that you have to wake up 30 minutes earlier than you'd like.
5. Not searching at all
This mistake probably seems obvious, but as anyone who's been on a lengthy job hunt can tell you, discouragement is easy to come by. A few weeks or months without a job and enough news segments on layoffs are enough to convince you that no one is hiring. Without question the market's competitive, but if you're not actively looking for work, don't expect it to fall in your lap.
6. No cover letter
Including a cover letter is an easy way to play it safe during a job hunt. Although not every employer wants one, surveys continually find employers who automatically remove job seekers from consideration if they don't include a cover letter. Why would you give any employer a reason not to hire you?
7. A generic cover letter
The only thing worse than no cover letter is one that could be sent to any anonymous employer. Starting with "To Whom It May Concern" and filling the page with phrases like "hard working" will signal the reader that you're blindly sending out applications to every job opening you see. Hiring managers are looking for someone who fits their needs, and their needs are different than another employer's. Don't treat them the same.
8. Typos
If you received a wedding invitation full of misspelled words and poor punctuation, you'd probably wonder why these two people didn't take the time to proofread the page. After all, it's an important event and a lot of people will be reading it. Employers will wonder the same thing about a résumé or cover letter filled with errors.
9. All "I" and not enough "you"
Your cover letter and résumé are definitely about you, but they're not for you. Employers are interested in you only in the context of what you can do for them. Whenever you reveal information about yourself, use it as proof that you offer something to the company that no one else can.
10. Giving bad contact information
When hiring managers like what they see on your résumé and cover letter, they're going to look for your contact information. If they see that your e-mail address is BeerFreak80@email.com or that your current work number is the best way to contact you, they're going to think twice before reaching out. The only thing worse is forgetting to include your contact information at all.
11. Running late
Every boss wants an employee who is dependable and a good representative of the company. Someone who's tardy to an interview is neither.
12. Dressing for the wrong job
Appearances matter in an interview, and you should dress for what's appropriate in your field. Find out what the dress code is before you show up so you fit in with the company culture. Wearing a suit when you're told jeans are the norm can make you seem stuffy; wearing shorts and sandals when everyone else is wearing suits makes you look oblivious. You're better off erring on the side of too professional than too casual.
13. Griping about past employers
Keep in mind that you're not guaranteed to be with any company forever. When you talk trash about your last company, your interviewer's thinking, "What are you going to say about me once you leave?"
14. Not asking questions
One quintessential interview question is, "Do you have any questions for me?" Sitting there silently suggests you're not invested in the job. When you go to a restaurant, you probably have a few questions for the waiter. Shouldn't you be just as curious about a new job?
15. Not doing your research
Research for a new job involves two important subjects: the position and the company. Find out as much about the position as you can so you can decide if you even want it and so you can position yourself as the best fit for the job.
Knowing all you can about the company will help you decide if you like its direction and share its ideals. Plus, when it comes to the all-important "Do you have any questions for us?" portion of the interview (see above), you have plenty of material to cover.
16. Thinking the interview starts and ends in a meeting room
The formal interview occurs when you shake hands with the interviewer and ends when you leave the room. The full process begins when you're called or e-mailed to come in for an interview and it continues every time you converse with someone at the company. Were you rude to the recruiter or the receptionist? You never know what gets reported to the hiring manager.
17. Talking about money too soon
As eager as you are to land the job and cash your first paycheck, let the employer mention salary first. Broaching the subject first implies you're more eager about money than about doing a good job.
18. Acting cocky
You never want to beg for a job, but you should act as if you care about it. If your confidence level spills over into arrogance, you'll guarantee no employer will want to work with you.
19. Being so honest you're rude
Not every job will turn into a lifelong career, and you might have no intention of staying at the company more than a year or two when you interview. Still, hiring managers don't want to hear that you're taking this job just to pass time until you find a real job that you care about. You don't need to commit yourself to the company for a decade, but don't make yourself sound like a flight risk, either.
20. Forgetting your manners
Common courtesy can get you far, and in a job hunt you'd like to get as far as possible. After an interview, send a thank-you note (via e-mail or regular mail) to show your gratitude to the interviewer for taking the time to meet with you. This will leave him or her with a good impression of you.
21. Stalking the hiring manager
If the interviewer gives you a deadline for hearing back from him or her, go ahead and call to see if a decision has been made. Do not call, e-mail and visit every day until you finally get a response -- which will probably be, "You definitely did not get the job."
22. Not keeping track of your applications
Because a job hunt can be lengthy, you should have a running list of where you've applied and whether or not you've heard back. Although you don't think you'll forget where you applied, after a dozen applications your memory can get fuzzy. Sending multiple applications to the same employer says, "I'm either disorganized or I'm just sending out bulk applications."
23. Not learning from mistakes
You're bound to make a mistake here and there during an interview. If a question trips you up, think about what went wrong and prepare for it the next time. Don't forget mistakes from your past, either. Look back at jobs you hated and try to avoid landing one of those jobs again.
24. Assuming you got the job
Don't ever assume you have the job until you actually hear the hiring manager say, "You got the job." Several factors can complicate whether or not you get hired, so don't halt your job search until you receive an offer. Keep searching for work because the deal might fall through at the last minute or you might find an even better job.
25. Forgetting the lessons you learned during a job search
When your hard work pays off and you do land a job, don't forget all the trials and trouble you went through to get it. Just because you have a paycheck doesn't mean you've looked for your last job. Remember how important it is to maintain a network, keep track of your achievements and have good references. If you do find yourself looking for work again, you'll have a much easier time.
Anthony Balderrama, CareerBuilder.com writer
1. Assuming you'll never need to look for another job
You love your current job and that's great. If you're happy there and see a promising future, I hope you never have to leave. Nevertheless, you should always be prepared for the day you have to move on. Even if the boss loves you, things can change. Buyouts, economic disasters or changes in leadership can affect your employment. Continue to update your résumé while you're employed so that you have an accurate record of your accomplishments.
2. Burning bridges
We love the scenes in movies where the disgruntled employee finally tells off the boss and storms out of the office, only to live a happy, fulfilling life. In real life, these idols are probably unemployed because they don't have good references, and no employer wants to hire someone with a tarnished reputation.
3. Keeping mum on your job search
Most people aren't keen on being unemployed, and if you were laid off it's understandable that you don't want to spend all your time talking about it. But you need to network; it's one of the most effective ways to find a job. A friend of a friend of a friend often gets you the interview that lands you the job -- but that won't happen if no one knows you're looking for new career opportunities.
4. Looking for "The One"
Although you want to conduct a focused job search, you need to keep an open mind. With any luck, you'll land the perfect gig, but sometimes you have to take a job that possesses most of the qualities you want -- not all of them. If the pay is right, the requirements are in line with your experience and the opportunities for promotion are good, then you might have to overlook the fact that you have to wake up 30 minutes earlier than you'd like.
5. Not searching at all
This mistake probably seems obvious, but as anyone who's been on a lengthy job hunt can tell you, discouragement is easy to come by. A few weeks or months without a job and enough news segments on layoffs are enough to convince you that no one is hiring. Without question the market's competitive, but if you're not actively looking for work, don't expect it to fall in your lap.
6. No cover letter
Including a cover letter is an easy way to play it safe during a job hunt. Although not every employer wants one, surveys continually find employers who automatically remove job seekers from consideration if they don't include a cover letter. Why would you give any employer a reason not to hire you?
7. A generic cover letter
The only thing worse than no cover letter is one that could be sent to any anonymous employer. Starting with "To Whom It May Concern" and filling the page with phrases like "hard working" will signal the reader that you're blindly sending out applications to every job opening you see. Hiring managers are looking for someone who fits their needs, and their needs are different than another employer's. Don't treat them the same.
8. Typos
If you received a wedding invitation full of misspelled words and poor punctuation, you'd probably wonder why these two people didn't take the time to proofread the page. After all, it's an important event and a lot of people will be reading it. Employers will wonder the same thing about a résumé or cover letter filled with errors.
9. All "I" and not enough "you"
Your cover letter and résumé are definitely about you, but they're not for you. Employers are interested in you only in the context of what you can do for them. Whenever you reveal information about yourself, use it as proof that you offer something to the company that no one else can.
10. Giving bad contact information
When hiring managers like what they see on your résumé and cover letter, they're going to look for your contact information. If they see that your e-mail address is BeerFreak80@email.com or that your current work number is the best way to contact you, they're going to think twice before reaching out. The only thing worse is forgetting to include your contact information at all.
11. Running late
Every boss wants an employee who is dependable and a good representative of the company. Someone who's tardy to an interview is neither.
12. Dressing for the wrong job
Appearances matter in an interview, and you should dress for what's appropriate in your field. Find out what the dress code is before you show up so you fit in with the company culture. Wearing a suit when you're told jeans are the norm can make you seem stuffy; wearing shorts and sandals when everyone else is wearing suits makes you look oblivious. You're better off erring on the side of too professional than too casual.
13. Griping about past employers
Keep in mind that you're not guaranteed to be with any company forever. When you talk trash about your last company, your interviewer's thinking, "What are you going to say about me once you leave?"
14. Not asking questions
One quintessential interview question is, "Do you have any questions for me?" Sitting there silently suggests you're not invested in the job. When you go to a restaurant, you probably have a few questions for the waiter. Shouldn't you be just as curious about a new job?
15. Not doing your research
Research for a new job involves two important subjects: the position and the company. Find out as much about the position as you can so you can decide if you even want it and so you can position yourself as the best fit for the job.
Knowing all you can about the company will help you decide if you like its direction and share its ideals. Plus, when it comes to the all-important "Do you have any questions for us?" portion of the interview (see above), you have plenty of material to cover.
16. Thinking the interview starts and ends in a meeting room
The formal interview occurs when you shake hands with the interviewer and ends when you leave the room. The full process begins when you're called or e-mailed to come in for an interview and it continues every time you converse with someone at the company. Were you rude to the recruiter or the receptionist? You never know what gets reported to the hiring manager.
17. Talking about money too soon
As eager as you are to land the job and cash your first paycheck, let the employer mention salary first. Broaching the subject first implies you're more eager about money than about doing a good job.
18. Acting cocky
You never want to beg for a job, but you should act as if you care about it. If your confidence level spills over into arrogance, you'll guarantee no employer will want to work with you.
19. Being so honest you're rude
Not every job will turn into a lifelong career, and you might have no intention of staying at the company more than a year or two when you interview. Still, hiring managers don't want to hear that you're taking this job just to pass time until you find a real job that you care about. You don't need to commit yourself to the company for a decade, but don't make yourself sound like a flight risk, either.
20. Forgetting your manners
Common courtesy can get you far, and in a job hunt you'd like to get as far as possible. After an interview, send a thank-you note (via e-mail or regular mail) to show your gratitude to the interviewer for taking the time to meet with you. This will leave him or her with a good impression of you.
21. Stalking the hiring manager
If the interviewer gives you a deadline for hearing back from him or her, go ahead and call to see if a decision has been made. Do not call, e-mail and visit every day until you finally get a response -- which will probably be, "You definitely did not get the job."
22. Not keeping track of your applications
Because a job hunt can be lengthy, you should have a running list of where you've applied and whether or not you've heard back. Although you don't think you'll forget where you applied, after a dozen applications your memory can get fuzzy. Sending multiple applications to the same employer says, "I'm either disorganized or I'm just sending out bulk applications."
23. Not learning from mistakes
You're bound to make a mistake here and there during an interview. If a question trips you up, think about what went wrong and prepare for it the next time. Don't forget mistakes from your past, either. Look back at jobs you hated and try to avoid landing one of those jobs again.
24. Assuming you got the job
Don't ever assume you have the job until you actually hear the hiring manager say, "You got the job." Several factors can complicate whether or not you get hired, so don't halt your job search until you receive an offer. Keep searching for work because the deal might fall through at the last minute or you might find an even better job.
25. Forgetting the lessons you learned during a job search
When your hard work pays off and you do land a job, don't forget all the trials and trouble you went through to get it. Just because you have a paycheck doesn't mean you've looked for your last job. Remember how important it is to maintain a network, keep track of your achievements and have good references. If you do find yourself looking for work again, you'll have a much easier time.
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Career Transitioning over 40
As I approach 40 I start to think of those out there who are also becoming more "mature" but also are changing careers. I found a great article regarding how to cope with both.
Changing your career at any age can be a little nerve rattling; however, as adults approach the age of 40 several factors keep many in jobs they would otherwise let go. These factors include age discrimination, opportunity to further education, financial resources, and much needed encouragement to get started. The key to these changes has often entailed:
1. Taking an inventory of skills
Here is a simple way for you to get started. Take a blank sheet of paper and draw a very large T on the paper. Write on the left side of the T, skills or jobs you have most enjoyed over the years. On the other half of the T, skills or jobs you did not enjoy. Consider your past work history, hobbies, and volunteer experiences when filling in your "T" area. Here are a few examples: Working with people, leisure activities, working with things, data, instructing others, artistic, mechanical, scientific, managing, influencing, sales, working with your hands, job location. Be as specific as you can with your likes and dislikes.
2. To get additional career ideas
Research the classified Ads - Even consider local businesses that you feel you would enjoy working at or even owning. Then make a note of them, and add them to your list of potential careers to further research.
In the Millennium new career opportunities are opening up everyday, and many new small businesses are emerging! Consider how you may use your skills and expertise to take advantage of this growing need in society. Working from your home and starting out small can be fun, too.
3. Choose a career you can enjoy, not one that is only directed at making money
You will need passion and enthusiasm to learn new things, and to push yourself to greater heights. The more you enjoy the work you choose, the more time you will spend at it. This can help you increase your income potential in the long run. Why not create a life based on the best person you want to be not what someone else tells you to be. Life really can be fun if you create income based on what you truly enjoy doing.
4. After researching careers you find interesting, narrow down your career selections.
Learn more about each career you find interesting. Helpful books for in-depth career research can be located at your local library or on-line. These books include: The Enhanced Occupational Outlook Handbook, The O*NET Dictionary of Occupational Titles, The Guide for Occupational Exploration (EGOE or GOE abbreviated) or the New Guide for Occupational Exploration. The O*NET Dictionary of Occupational Titles is the standard of the industry at this time for research in occupations.
These occupational reference books show specific's about an occupation; necessary skills, necessary education, basic salary ranges and much more. So referencing these important guides can give you a better idea of what can be expected and skills necessary for a particular occupation.
5. Paint a clear picture in your mind of what it is you really would choose to do in your career.
It is very important to paint a picture in your mind of the career you would like. Be very specific, right down to how close the your job is to you, along with the amount of income you would like to earn from it, down to what your office looks like, whether it is indoors or outdoors, the kind of people you would like to work around. Paint every tiny detail in your picture in your mind of your idea career, a career that you can really love.
A clear picture in your mind of what you like to do will bring it to you faster, as you are the instrument that brings change to your life. See yourself doing it already, put forth strong emotion in your thoughts when you think about it, as again, you ARE the instrument that brings change to your life. So the better you research your likes and dislikes, and the specific's of certain occupations, you can then choose better what it is you would like to do, as well, pin-pointing a career you can love will help to give you clarity in bringing it to your life.
6. Put your plan together
Take time to put your plan together now that you've done your research. Do you need more education, additional financial resources, a new resume, support from your family members, an intermediate job? Write a plan of action and then follow it step by step.
7. Financial Resources
If you're struggling for income don't forget some companies have opportunities for career transition within a company, ask the human resources office if any such program exist within your company. As well, you may want to look into government grants or other government programs for financial/educational opportunities. Our government has many programs to help those out financially and educationally to promote growth in each economic development area. Ask your local workforce Center or One-Stop Center for more information on local government sponsored programs. Research on-line for possible grants that may apply to you.
Changing your career at 40 is very possible. Remember changing your career can also include starting your own business. Focus on the skills you enjoy using the most, and build a career based solidly on your likes.
Changing a career is a process that can be fun, self awakening, and can give you a new zeal for living. Get started today and ask the people who care the most about you to give you the support you need.
If you need further help contact your local college and ask if they provide career counseling or consult the yellow pages and look under vocational counseling or career counseling.
Changing your career at any age can be a little nerve rattling; however, as adults approach the age of 40 several factors keep many in jobs they would otherwise let go. These factors include age discrimination, opportunity to further education, financial resources, and much needed encouragement to get started. The key to these changes has often entailed:
1. Taking an inventory of skills
Here is a simple way for you to get started. Take a blank sheet of paper and draw a very large T on the paper. Write on the left side of the T, skills or jobs you have most enjoyed over the years. On the other half of the T, skills or jobs you did not enjoy. Consider your past work history, hobbies, and volunteer experiences when filling in your "T" area. Here are a few examples: Working with people, leisure activities, working with things, data, instructing others, artistic, mechanical, scientific, managing, influencing, sales, working with your hands, job location. Be as specific as you can with your likes and dislikes.
2. To get additional career ideas
Research the classified Ads - Even consider local businesses that you feel you would enjoy working at or even owning. Then make a note of them, and add them to your list of potential careers to further research.
In the Millennium new career opportunities are opening up everyday, and many new small businesses are emerging! Consider how you may use your skills and expertise to take advantage of this growing need in society. Working from your home and starting out small can be fun, too.
3. Choose a career you can enjoy, not one that is only directed at making money
You will need passion and enthusiasm to learn new things, and to push yourself to greater heights. The more you enjoy the work you choose, the more time you will spend at it. This can help you increase your income potential in the long run. Why not create a life based on the best person you want to be not what someone else tells you to be. Life really can be fun if you create income based on what you truly enjoy doing.
4. After researching careers you find interesting, narrow down your career selections.
Learn more about each career you find interesting. Helpful books for in-depth career research can be located at your local library or on-line. These books include: The Enhanced Occupational Outlook Handbook, The O*NET Dictionary of Occupational Titles, The Guide for Occupational Exploration (EGOE or GOE abbreviated) or the New Guide for Occupational Exploration. The O*NET Dictionary of Occupational Titles is the standard of the industry at this time for research in occupations.
These occupational reference books show specific's about an occupation; necessary skills, necessary education, basic salary ranges and much more. So referencing these important guides can give you a better idea of what can be expected and skills necessary for a particular occupation.
5. Paint a clear picture in your mind of what it is you really would choose to do in your career.
It is very important to paint a picture in your mind of the career you would like. Be very specific, right down to how close the your job is to you, along with the amount of income you would like to earn from it, down to what your office looks like, whether it is indoors or outdoors, the kind of people you would like to work around. Paint every tiny detail in your picture in your mind of your idea career, a career that you can really love.
A clear picture in your mind of what you like to do will bring it to you faster, as you are the instrument that brings change to your life. See yourself doing it already, put forth strong emotion in your thoughts when you think about it, as again, you ARE the instrument that brings change to your life. So the better you research your likes and dislikes, and the specific's of certain occupations, you can then choose better what it is you would like to do, as well, pin-pointing a career you can love will help to give you clarity in bringing it to your life.
6. Put your plan together
Take time to put your plan together now that you've done your research. Do you need more education, additional financial resources, a new resume, support from your family members, an intermediate job? Write a plan of action and then follow it step by step.
7. Financial Resources
If you're struggling for income don't forget some companies have opportunities for career transition within a company, ask the human resources office if any such program exist within your company. As well, you may want to look into government grants or other government programs for financial/educational opportunities. Our government has many programs to help those out financially and educationally to promote growth in each economic development area. Ask your local workforce Center or One-Stop Center for more information on local government sponsored programs. Research on-line for possible grants that may apply to you.
Changing your career at 40 is very possible. Remember changing your career can also include starting your own business. Focus on the skills you enjoy using the most, and build a career based solidly on your likes.
Changing a career is a process that can be fun, self awakening, and can give you a new zeal for living. Get started today and ask the people who care the most about you to give you the support you need.
If you need further help contact your local college and ask if they provide career counseling or consult the yellow pages and look under vocational counseling or career counseling.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Using a Headhunter
Many have approached me about the best way to utilize a headhunter for a job search. I came across a great article that may be useful.
How To Get The Most Out of Head Hunters
By
Michael T Robinson
CareerPlanner.com
How to Select a Head Hunter
(Professional Recruiter)
Many people ask how they should go about selecting a professional recruiter (otherwise known as a headhunter). They frequently ask if we can recommend a few good recruiters that specialize in a particular field.
Unfortunately, it doesn't work that way. Recruiters select you. You don't select them. Understanding this will allow you to get the most out of recruiters.
The process you will want to apply when utilizing recruiters is opposite the process a company uses when they use recruiters. A company may use one or two trusted recruiters when they do a search. On the other hand you will have to use a large number of recruiters (>500) that you probably know very little about.
That's probably not what you wanted to hear.
Before you contact recruiters, you must know what type of work it is that you are looking for. If you are not sure about your career direction, contact CareerPlanner.com for quick assistance in matching your interests and abilities with good careers.
When you look for a recruiter, unless you are paying him or her out of your own pocket, or unless you are an extremely hot property, no single recruiter can afford to focus on you. The best you can hope for is to get into their database, their filing system, or better yet into their minds.
Since you don't know which positions a recruiter might be trying to fill, and which companies a recruiter is working for, you need to contact a large volume of recruiters in hopes of finding one that has an interesting position, in your area of expertise, and at an interesting company.
By now you should realize that having a recruiter or two working for you, is an illusion. It just doesn't work that way.
This is what does work:
Quick Recipe for Success
Compile a list of 500 or more recruiting firms based on your particular need
Perform a mass emailing of your resume and cover letter to these firms
Hope you get into their data base whether it be computerized or not
Wait for calls - expect calls to start within a few weeks and to run for months
Sort and save the rejection notices into two piles. Those that claim to not handle your field, and those that do but don't have any present opportunities.
Expect only a very small percentage of recruiters to show an interest. One out of 25 is considered good. Hopefully you will have more. It depends on supply and demand.
If a recruiter calls they may want to do a "get to know you" interview on the phone. Be prepared to market yourself. See our web site for tips on marketing yourself.
Keep in touch with the recruiters that did call. Check with them frequently, just so that you maintain a position in their minds.
Ask all of the people you know in your industry, what headhunters they like to use. Get their email addresses and and phone numbers and contact them as well.
How To Do A Mass Emailing?
First you need a list of recruiting firms. You can purchase a listing of recruiting firms from a number of places and there may be free sources on the Internet. We suggest:
The Directory of Executive Recruiters + CD
By Kennedy Information
Phone: 800-531-0007
http://kennedyinfo.com/
This book, which costs about $45, contains over 4000 recruiters sorted by location, specialty, industry etc. It comes with a CD that contains the same information as the book. The CD allows you to easily sort and use the email addresses of recruiting firms. It requires a password that can be purchased over the phone for an additional charge of approximately $150. This is expensive, but it will save you hours of re-typing addresses onto mailing labels.
CareerPlanner.com is not affiliated with this book nor the publishers. We just think it's one of the fastest ways to do mass mailing of resumes.
Remember that you should send out at least 500 resumes.
Contingency VS Retained
First decide whether to use contingency recruiters or retained recruiters. This varies depending on the economy. During boom times recruiters can afford to be selective and the following rule applies:
If your salary is over $100K send resumes to retained recruiters first. If your salary is less than $100K use contingency recruiters.
What is the difference? Companies filling top positions will usually pay a recruiting firm a retainer fee so they can afford to focus on a particular position. Thus searches for higher paying positions usually go to retained recruiting firms.
For lower paying positions, a company might use a number of contingency recruiting firms, none of which have an exclusive on filling the position. In this case whichever recruiter brings in the best candidate first gets paid. Everyone else loses. There are also recruiters who, when they find an interesting resume will mail it to several companies hoping to get lucky. These are contingency search firms.
Some companies operate as both contingency and retained. During slow economic times, many recruiting firms will take any business they can get. Sure they would prefer the "cash up front" that a retained position provides, but during tough times, they will go after what looks like their best bet to close a deal quickly.
Select A Location
You can select recruiting firms by their location, however this is mis-leading. A search firm in New Jersey might know of a position in San Diego. Why? The San Diego company may have a parent company in New Jersey, or, the recruiting firm may have done a good job for someone in the San Diego company.
Recruiting usually transcends geographic boundaries. However, if you have a specific location where you want to live, i.e. perhaps where you now live, then start with local recruiters, but don't stop there. Your initial mailing should include both local and remote recruiters.
Finally, the larger recruiting firms have headquarters in major East and West Coast cities. You will want to send a resume to both the head quarters and the local branch.
Select A Specialty
You should select recruiting firms based on the fields they specialize in. The Kennedy book mentioned above allows you to select by industry and to some extent by career field. When you look up a recruiter in the Kennedy book you will get a feel for whether they might cover your type of work. When in doubt put them on your mailing list. Worst case they will mail you a post card stating they don't cover your field.
Summary
Remember your goal is to make yourself known to as many recruiters as possible. You do this through mass emailing. The more resumes you send, the better chance you have of finding a recruiter who is doing a search for someone just like you.
How To Get The Most Out of Head Hunters
By
Michael T Robinson
CareerPlanner.com
How to Select a Head Hunter
(Professional Recruiter)
Many people ask how they should go about selecting a professional recruiter (otherwise known as a headhunter). They frequently ask if we can recommend a few good recruiters that specialize in a particular field.
Unfortunately, it doesn't work that way. Recruiters select you. You don't select them. Understanding this will allow you to get the most out of recruiters.
The process you will want to apply when utilizing recruiters is opposite the process a company uses when they use recruiters. A company may use one or two trusted recruiters when they do a search. On the other hand you will have to use a large number of recruiters (>500) that you probably know very little about.
That's probably not what you wanted to hear.
Before you contact recruiters, you must know what type of work it is that you are looking for. If you are not sure about your career direction, contact CareerPlanner.com for quick assistance in matching your interests and abilities with good careers.
When you look for a recruiter, unless you are paying him or her out of your own pocket, or unless you are an extremely hot property, no single recruiter can afford to focus on you. The best you can hope for is to get into their database, their filing system, or better yet into their minds.
Since you don't know which positions a recruiter might be trying to fill, and which companies a recruiter is working for, you need to contact a large volume of recruiters in hopes of finding one that has an interesting position, in your area of expertise, and at an interesting company.
By now you should realize that having a recruiter or two working for you, is an illusion. It just doesn't work that way.
This is what does work:
Quick Recipe for Success
Compile a list of 500 or more recruiting firms based on your particular need
Perform a mass emailing of your resume and cover letter to these firms
Hope you get into their data base whether it be computerized or not
Wait for calls - expect calls to start within a few weeks and to run for months
Sort and save the rejection notices into two piles. Those that claim to not handle your field, and those that do but don't have any present opportunities.
Expect only a very small percentage of recruiters to show an interest. One out of 25 is considered good. Hopefully you will have more. It depends on supply and demand.
If a recruiter calls they may want to do a "get to know you" interview on the phone. Be prepared to market yourself. See our web site for tips on marketing yourself.
Keep in touch with the recruiters that did call. Check with them frequently, just so that you maintain a position in their minds.
Ask all of the people you know in your industry, what headhunters they like to use. Get their email addresses and and phone numbers and contact them as well.
How To Do A Mass Emailing?
First you need a list of recruiting firms. You can purchase a listing of recruiting firms from a number of places and there may be free sources on the Internet. We suggest:
The Directory of Executive Recruiters + CD
By Kennedy Information
Phone: 800-531-0007
http://kennedyinfo.com/
This book, which costs about $45, contains over 4000 recruiters sorted by location, specialty, industry etc. It comes with a CD that contains the same information as the book. The CD allows you to easily sort and use the email addresses of recruiting firms. It requires a password that can be purchased over the phone for an additional charge of approximately $150. This is expensive, but it will save you hours of re-typing addresses onto mailing labels.
CareerPlanner.com is not affiliated with this book nor the publishers. We just think it's one of the fastest ways to do mass mailing of resumes.
Remember that you should send out at least 500 resumes.
Contingency VS Retained
First decide whether to use contingency recruiters or retained recruiters. This varies depending on the economy. During boom times recruiters can afford to be selective and the following rule applies:
If your salary is over $100K send resumes to retained recruiters first. If your salary is less than $100K use contingency recruiters.
What is the difference? Companies filling top positions will usually pay a recruiting firm a retainer fee so they can afford to focus on a particular position. Thus searches for higher paying positions usually go to retained recruiting firms.
For lower paying positions, a company might use a number of contingency recruiting firms, none of which have an exclusive on filling the position. In this case whichever recruiter brings in the best candidate first gets paid. Everyone else loses. There are also recruiters who, when they find an interesting resume will mail it to several companies hoping to get lucky. These are contingency search firms.
Some companies operate as both contingency and retained. During slow economic times, many recruiting firms will take any business they can get. Sure they would prefer the "cash up front" that a retained position provides, but during tough times, they will go after what looks like their best bet to close a deal quickly.
Select A Location
You can select recruiting firms by their location, however this is mis-leading. A search firm in New Jersey might know of a position in San Diego. Why? The San Diego company may have a parent company in New Jersey, or, the recruiting firm may have done a good job for someone in the San Diego company.
Recruiting usually transcends geographic boundaries. However, if you have a specific location where you want to live, i.e. perhaps where you now live, then start with local recruiters, but don't stop there. Your initial mailing should include both local and remote recruiters.
Finally, the larger recruiting firms have headquarters in major East and West Coast cities. You will want to send a resume to both the head quarters and the local branch.
Select A Specialty
You should select recruiting firms based on the fields they specialize in. The Kennedy book mentioned above allows you to select by industry and to some extent by career field. When you look up a recruiter in the Kennedy book you will get a feel for whether they might cover your type of work. When in doubt put them on your mailing list. Worst case they will mail you a post card stating they don't cover your field.
Summary
Remember your goal is to make yourself known to as many recruiters as possible. You do this through mass emailing. The more resumes you send, the better chance you have of finding a recruiter who is doing a search for someone just like you.
Saturday, January 9, 2010
New Year Job Resolutions
Andy Chan, vice president for career development at Wake Forest University, said that adopting these 10 resolutions could help refresh and rejuvenate the job search, and get the New Year off to the best start possible.
Roadblock 1 - Poor marketing
"Many people don’t realise that the way they are marketing themselves just isn’t working, and they never get any feedback. The best way to get feedback is to ask for it from people who do a lot of hiring," said Chan.
1. I will ask friends or acquaintances who manage and hire people to evaluate my cover letter and resume and give me real feedback - even if it hurts to hear it.
2. I will ask these same friends to conduct a practice interview with me and give me "tough love" feedback.
3. When I find an attractive job on the Web, I will apply immediately (with a tailored cover letter and resume) and search for friends and colleagues who could act as referrals to help me network into the organization.
Roadblock 2 - Poor networking
"We make the assumption that if we apply on the Web, it will get us in the door. But the truth is, if your experience doesn’t line up perfectly with the job, the likelihood of getting seen is low. That’s why networking is important. People hire people; they don’t hire paper," Chan said.
4. I will be thoughtful about when to send my resume, and I will not send my resume to everyone I know.
5. I will be specific about the type of work and organizations, including names of target organizations that I find most interesting.
6. I will network 80 percent of the time and use the Web 20 percent of the time.
Roadblock 3 - Poor mind-set
"A lot of people are looking at jobs through a narrow lens. But as the old Rolling Stones song says, ‘you can’t always get what you want.’ You may need to focus first on what you need and get the ideal job later," Chan said.
7. I will be open to exploring many options because an interesting opportunity may exist beyond what I can see on the surface.
8. I will re-examine what my real financial needs are so that I can be more open to opportunities that may pay me less than what I want.
9. I will evaluate opportunities by recognizing that this job can be a stepping stone to another job (inside or outside the company) - especially as the market improves.
10. Although I might want to quit and do a job search full-time, I am more attractive to employers when I am employed.
Roadblock 1 - Poor marketing
"Many people don’t realise that the way they are marketing themselves just isn’t working, and they never get any feedback. The best way to get feedback is to ask for it from people who do a lot of hiring," said Chan.
1. I will ask friends or acquaintances who manage and hire people to evaluate my cover letter and resume and give me real feedback - even if it hurts to hear it.
2. I will ask these same friends to conduct a practice interview with me and give me "tough love" feedback.
3. When I find an attractive job on the Web, I will apply immediately (with a tailored cover letter and resume) and search for friends and colleagues who could act as referrals to help me network into the organization.
Roadblock 2 - Poor networking
"We make the assumption that if we apply on the Web, it will get us in the door. But the truth is, if your experience doesn’t line up perfectly with the job, the likelihood of getting seen is low. That’s why networking is important. People hire people; they don’t hire paper," Chan said.
4. I will be thoughtful about when to send my resume, and I will not send my resume to everyone I know.
5. I will be specific about the type of work and organizations, including names of target organizations that I find most interesting.
6. I will network 80 percent of the time and use the Web 20 percent of the time.
Roadblock 3 - Poor mind-set
"A lot of people are looking at jobs through a narrow lens. But as the old Rolling Stones song says, ‘you can’t always get what you want.’ You may need to focus first on what you need and get the ideal job later," Chan said.
7. I will be open to exploring many options because an interesting opportunity may exist beyond what I can see on the surface.
8. I will re-examine what my real financial needs are so that I can be more open to opportunities that may pay me less than what I want.
9. I will evaluate opportunities by recognizing that this job can be a stepping stone to another job (inside or outside the company) - especially as the market improves.
10. Although I might want to quit and do a job search full-time, I am more attractive to employers when I am employed.
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