The internet provides many popular social networking choices today, such as Youtube, MySpace, Twitter, and Facebook, to name a few, but if you are not careful, what you put out there about yourself can harm your chances of getting that dream job.
By Barb Bruno, CPC, CTS
The feedback we receive after interviews from our clients and candidates provides us with inside information that can help us excel at our profession. It’s important to say both to the client and candidate that you “take your direction” from them. This empowers them and will result in you receiving accurate information.
In today’s tense job market, things can be so overwhelming. You may either be unemployed, a young adult seeking to enter the work force for the first time, or thinking about making a new career change. Regardless of your current job situation, it is perfectly okay not to know what you want to do. For many people, being stuck in a position just to earn a paycheck or having a dead end job with no growth potential is an unfortunate reality and not a healthy alternative. Eventually, for those workers who are in unhappy job dilemmas, frustration and dissatisfaction in their positions can cause physical illness. Job stress and anxiety can be promoted by the work involved or the people they work with. Some people simply feel trapped and have no vision of what their future could be like. They cannot see past their current situation nor take the time to explore what other career options exist for them.
(more…)
They want to end our agreement without paying us our fees. Any suggestions?
About a month ago I entered into a retained relationship with my client. Monthly retainer fee + placement fees per placement, on a six-month contract. We have been working on their behalf since then. Today I was informed that the President of the company has decided to unilaterally end the relationship. The reason given is that they have decided not to go on the aggressive hiring plan that they engaged our firm to assist them with. When I originally met with the company, I met with the Chairman of the company, along with the Managing Director of Human Resources. The Managing Director of Human Resources, who called me today to tell me that they were not honoring the agreement did, in fact, say that he was very happy with our performance and that we had met all of their expectations. They have offered to pay just one month retainer fee. I do not feel this is adequate compensation for the fact that we have dedicated a great many of our resources solely to working on their behalf and have a six-month contract. There was no out clause in our agreement and, as of this writing, I have not agreed to any type of settlement. Any suggestions?
Danny’s response:
Well I won’t beat you up with the obvious, you now know it’s crazy not to have a clause that determines what monies are paid should either of you end the agreement.
Guarantee After 90 Days?
A client is interested in what we would do for our guarantee (90 days) if after 90 days past the termination we have not found a replacement. What do you suggest?
Danny’s response:
So am I to understand the only things certain in life are taxes, death and your company’s guarantees? Your client is essentially asking you to consider “the worst case scenario”, to guarantee your guarantee.
How recruiters’ work has puzzled job seekers for some time. Executives and professionals in transition who are managing a new job search can look to recruiters for career advice and job opportunities. Here are some helpful tips about how to work with recruiting firms, what recruiters look for in job seekers, and how you can get them on your side.
About Recruiters
Recruiters have many responsibilities: Researching job markets; marketing to employers; helping employers budget salaries; interviewing qualified candidates; presenting candidates to their clients; preparing candidates for the interview process; negotiating candidate’s employment package; and preparing candidates for a smooth job transition.
Once a company has engaged a recruiting firm to work on a job opening, it is the recruiter’s responsibility to present three to five qualified candidates to the employer. Many recruiting firms have national reach and can place candidates throughout the country
When a job seeker’s experience meets the search criteria, a recruiter will conduct an extensive phone screen to pre-qualify the candidate for the open position, in addition to ensuring that the candidate has a strong interest in the opportunity. When a job seeker is working with a local recruiting firm, a face to face interview may take place. Should the candidate meet the qualifications a phone screen or face-to-face interview would be scheduled with the employer. Recruiters work closely with candidates and provide coaching on how to make a good impression with the employer and answer tough interview questions.
Let Recruiters Take the Lead
To effectively work with recruiters once they have contacted you, let them take the lead. Never embellish facts or stretch the truth about your experiences, education, income or other key issues. Provide references and be on time for appointments, phone calls, and engage yourself in the process. Be open and prove you have nothing to hide. If you are really not interested in the position, say so, and recruiters will appreciate you being up front early. Offer referrals and be a valued resource and you will be remembered over other candidates when new jobs open up.
Tips for Job Seekers
1. Decide to pursue a new job for the right reasons. Being unhappy with your current salary should not be one of them.
2. Learn from your recruiter. Often, they are just as valuable as hiring a job coach.
3. Let the recruiter be the mediator for you during compensation discussions unless told otherwise.
4. Recruiters will contact you throughout the process when necessary.
5. To get the best results when working with a recruiter, only identify recruiters within your industry of expertise.
6. Advise your recruiter on other job opportunities that you are currently working on to reduce duplicating efforts.
7. If you have submitted your resume directly to a company, understand that a recruiter will not be able to represent you at that company.
Advantages
A recruiter will introduce you to an organization and make you stand out from the crowd. You are being recommended from a trusted source that has a relationship with the client, so always make a good impression through each step of the process.
Most searches are confidential and working with recruiters can help you tap into hidden job leads. A company paying for a search is typically financially strong and is more likely to be committed to your success.
A recruiter is an experienced professional that will work with you throughout the entire process that involves interview preparation, salary negotiation, how to read through an offer, resignation, and getting you through your first 90 days on the job.
How to Plan for an Interview
Every professional should have a strategic interview plan and be willing to share their plan with a recruiter. Your plan should include:
1. Long and short term goals.
2. Timeline of achievements and conversation that flows as you explain your experience.
3. Things you did above and beyond your position(s).
4. Knowing your skill set, strengths, and attributes that will set you apart from other candidates.
5. Knowing your values as well as your areas of improvement.
6. Available start date.
The process of finding your next position depends on how prepared you are. With an interview plan you will most likely feel more comfortable and knowledgeable which gives you an edge over your competition. In addition to working your inner circle of friends, family, past colleagues, and business acquaintances, networking with the right recruiters is highly recommended.