Check out our newest column. In Recruiter Q &A, experienced Spherion recruiters discuss the latest trends in the job market and provide advice on making the most of your job search. This month's recruiter, Jorge Roca, is a senior direct hire recruiter and has consistently been the top producer in staffing for the last four years. He has more than 10 years experience in the recruiting industry.
1. How long have you been recruiting and what advice would you give to others interested in being a recruiter?
I have been a recruiter for 10 years. For those interested in pursuing a career in recruiting, the best advice I can give you is to have thick skin and more importantly- have a passion for it. I am in this profession because I love to help others. This could a very rewarding career, professionally and personally. Recruiting is sales and you have to be a sales person. The difference is in the candidates you sell. If you believe in your candidates it becomes more than a sale, it is a responsibility and honor to put the right person in place. Success is measured only by the employees that build an organization and the recruiter's role is without a doubt the most important piece of the puzzle.
2. Is it okay to work with more than one recruiter at the same time?
If you are a highly skilled individual, more than likely you have been in this situation before: multiple recruiters trying to place you because of how valuable you are. While that dilemma doesn't seem so horrific, it can be if 5-6 recruiters are sending your resume to all the same place multiple times. Remember, recruiters are generally paid on commission. That means they only get paid if the person they present gets hired. If two recruiters submit the same resume and you get hired, the potential employer now has the dilemma of potentially paying two separate recruiter fees. On the other hand, if you are trying to get a position that is already in high supply or have a larger geographic region to potentially be placed, it might be best to work with multiple recruiters. In my opinion, the best bet is to be open and honest from the start. This can only benefit the relationship that you have.
3. What are the top 3 questions a job-seeker should ask a recruiter when he/she calls?
a. What do you specialize in?
b. How long have you been doing this?
c. What does your contact list look like?
4. What is the biggest misconception that job seekers have?
Your resume should be one page.
5. What is the biggest misconception about recruiters?
We don't have good jobs. Recruiters can pin-point career opportunities. We have more access to small and mid-size corporation. Most companies will post positions because it is important for them to go through the correct protocol before outsourcing an opportunity. They need to justify that they have taken every measure to fill the role before agreeing to pay a fee. Most successful recruiters have established relationships with their clients giving them the ability to present your resume accordingly. Most of the times if you come with the precise fit you will get the opportunity to interview for the role regardless of the fee or protocol involved. A good recruiter who has always had the client's best interest in mind will certainly be able to circulate your resume quickly and efficiently.
Recruiter Bloopers: I once saw a candidate take their puppy to the interview and leave it with the receptionist!
The Temp Life, Spherion's original web-based series, contains subject matter that may be disturbing to some viewers... especially temps! In this episode, Paul shares the news of his new "temp-ness" with his slightly neurotic roommate Caitlin, who is having job search trouble of her own. And don't forget to tune in for the next Temp Life episode on October 15th! Get Temp Life news and updates on your phone by texting LIVETEMP to 44636!
Want to catch up on other Temp Life episodes? Click here to access the Temp Life channel.
Q: Dear Seymour, I just got a job offer, but I also have a planned vacation coming up. What's the best way to tell my new employer that I already need to be out of the office?
- Submitted by Liz Messer, Orlando, Florida
A: Dear Liz,
Congratulations on your offer! Having to negotiate early vacation time is a common situation with many new employees. It's understandable that you want to be professional and set a positive tone before you begin. Here are some tips on how to have a professional conversation about getting days off in a new job.
Be honest. The best way to approach your new employer is with honesty. Most employers are very understanding about pre-planned vacations. When you discuss your start date, tell them that you already have a vacation planned and let them know when you will not be available to work. Politely ask how they would like to handle the days off.
Be clear. Make sure you tell the employer exactly what days you need off. It's also important to fully understand the company's policy on vacation days and pay. If you start work before your vacation, your days off may not be paid. If your position is salaried, the employer may want to pay you an hourly rate until after your vacation. Whatever your agreement is, make sure both you and your employer are clear on the terms so there is no confusion or unmet expectations later.
Be flexible. Even if your vacation days are set in stone, try to be flexible and reach a compromise with your employer. The employer may want to delay your start date, or they may prefer that you begin as soon as you can and miss days after you begin. Even if you can only work one day before your time off, some employers may want you to come in to meet people, fill out paperwork, and get acquainted before you leave.
Beware. If your employer has a problem with your time off and is unwilling to compromise, you may want to reevaluate whether or not the job is really for you. Everyone needs a vacation now and then, and it's important to work with someone who understands that your personal life counts, too.
Whatever your compromise is, best of luck with your new job and have a great time on your trip!
We have all heard the expression that time is money. When it comes to conducting meetings at the office, time can be precious and meetings can be tedious without accomplishing much.
Everyone needs to learn how to use their time wisely, so meetings should be conducted with respect for everyone's schedule and time constraints. One article offers several tips and advice for conducting efficient meetings in the office. I find this list helpful, and have a couple more to add.
First, make sure that a meeting is necessary. Sometimes, tasks can be accomplished just by asking a few pertinent questions of key members of your team instead of gathering everyone together to go over the information.
Learn how to take efficient notes. Multiple meetings are often held because in subsequent get togethers, all information wasn't captured or retained. Learning how to take notes and get as much information at the beginning of a project will help cut back on the number of meetings that need to be attended.
My favorite meeting tip, establish rules. Parameters such as time constraints on how long each person has to present, and keeping questions until the end will help cut meeting times in half.
The Temp Life, Spherion's original web-based series, recounts each of your troublesome and all too often tragic temp stories. In this episode, following the "multi-hundred dollar" acquisition, Nick has some "Troubling" news for Paul about their future at Pedtastic but assures him the change is only "temporary." Get Temp Life news and updates on your phone by texting LIVETEMP to 44636!
Want to catch up on other Temp Life episodes? Click here to access the Temp Life channel.
The superlatively snarky employees at Pedtastic, the startup social network for shoelace-makers, patronize the temps from Commodity Staffing, a notoriously shady temp agency. When Pedtastic's clueless CEO and "ambassador of fun," Nick aka "Trouble" gets conned into selling the company to bankrupt Commodity in a "multi-hundred dollar transaction," Nick uses his inherited clockwatchers as cash cows with time sheets and will do ANYTHING to keep them under his delusional, incompetent thumb. This includes sending Paul, Laura, Mark and Caitlin on every nightmare temp job imaginable.
Secrets will be revealed. Scandal will erupt. Time sheets will be filled-out.
Want to catch up on other Temp Life episodes? Click here to access the Temp Life channel.
As with most tips in regards to getting along in the workplace, open and often communications is key. Make sure you let your new boss how you tend to operate, and in return, learn their expectations and how they typically run their departments.
Make sure that you maintain your professionalism at all times, and be prepared to learn from your new boss. You should also make sure that you stay informed, not only about your industry in particular, but current events and other business news as well.
Show your abilities as a team player, and remember some of the above tips, and you will be head of the class in your new boss' eyes in no time.
Q: Dear Seymour, I have an associates degree in computers but am currently pursuing a bachelors in business management, specifically an analysis position. I was wondering if I should obtain a job in the business field since I would like to go more that direction instead of the computers. I have two years before getting my bachelor degree and would not want to waste those two years in the computer industry if it will not benefit me. On the same note I do not want to be known as a job hopper either. I am confused as to which way to go wither to stay where I am at or change positions to gain the knowledge?????
- Submitted by Future Business Professional
A: Dear Future Business Professional,
You ask a very good question, and the answer is simple.
If you are currently employer as a computer analyst and you will not receive your Bachelor's degree for another two years, I would recommend you keep your current job and here's why.
First, don't be concerned about being a job hopper. Most workers today only stay with a company two-five years. So you will not be viewed as a habitual job changer in the eyes of a new employer because that is the norm.
Also, since you are working on your degree in another area, no one will hold it against you that you have chosen a different field of study for another career path. You may actually find down the road that both degrees and work experience will come in handy if you are applying for a business management position at a computer company.
Furthermore, unless you find a company that will allow you to work an internship with a guaranteed entry level position upon completion of your degree, you may find that the real-life work experience with the same employer for two years is worth more than an internship where you may not be involved in everyday decision making or the pertinent details that come with a full-time job.
Being part of office politics and learning how to work with different personalities on a team are also just as important the daily workload itself.
I hope this helps you sort out your dilemma, and if you still feel confused, you may want to ask the opinion of a trusted professor or career counselor at your school.
Q: Dear Seymour, I am a recent graduate of Metropolitan State University. I have a bachelors degree in criminal justice, and for the life of me I still cannot find a job! Anyone know what kind of jobs I am even eligible to apply for? Help!
- Submitted by Justice
A: Dear Justice,
First of all, I congratulate you for choosing such a noble profession! Now, the good news is that there are a number of areas where a criminal justice degree can be useful. The bad news is there are a number of areas where a criminal justice degree can be useful. What do I mean by that?
You chose field where there are several possibilities for job opportunities. Since you did not mention the types of jobs you have been applying for, I am assuming based on your poor luck in finding a job that you haven't applied to be a police officer. Law enforcement is one of the hottest careers to enter into today, and there are many opportunities to be an officer or investigator, even if you are not cut out to be in patrol or work in the jails.
Another good area where you can utilize your degree is social work or as a probation officer. These areas are constantly looking for qualified professionals who have degrees in criminal justice and are interested in helping people.
You might also want to consider a career in private security or pursue a further degree in criminal law. If these are areas that do not interest you, you may want to take a personality/workplace test to pinpoint where you would best be suited to utilize your strengths and talents.
Best of luck!
Seymour
Confucius said, "Find a job you enjoy, and you'll never work a day in your life." Maybe that's not entirely true - even dream jobs can sometimes end up being a nightmare. What did you always dream of becoming? Maybe it was an actor, a caterer, a museum curator, an alpaca farmer, a sports announcer or even a vet? Did you achieve those dreams only to realize that you got more than you bargained for?
Spherion wants you to give us your best shot! Submit a fun, interesting, unique photo of "Your Job... Dream or Nightmare?" for a chance to win American Express® Gift Cards. Photo entries will be judged on creativity, clarity, content, composition and appeal.
Please keep in mind when submitting your photos that as much as we'd like to see where you're working; you'll need to refrain from including any company names or logos. Also, please ensure all photo submissions are tasteful and content appropriate. Each fan can submit a maximum of three photos per week.
The grand prize winner will ultimately be chosen by YOU! Each week, a select Spherion panel, will review all of the photo submissions to determine the winning photo submission. The weekly winner will receive a $50 American Express® Gift Card and be automatically entered to win the grand prize for a $200 American Express® Gift Card. The four (4) weekly winners photos will be posted on Spherion's Facebook profile and the polls will be open for fan voting. The grand prize winner will be chosen by Spherion Facebook fans.
How to submit: Review and agree to the disclaimer, and then just add your photo and caption to the photo section within the Spherion profile page.
Eligibility: All Spherion fans, age 18 years or older, are eligible to win. Employees, officers and directors of Spherion, their respective subsidiaries, and agents, as well as the immediate family (defined as spouse, parents, children, siblings and grandparents) and household members of each such employee, officer and director are not eligible.
Getting you the goods: The contest winners' names will be posted to Spherion's Facebook page and will also be notified via email. After prize confirmation, we will coordinate getting the prizes to you.
Prizes Grand place: $200.00 American Express® Gift Card Four (4) Weekly Winners: $50.00 American Express® Gift Card
Check out our newest column. In Recruiter Q &A, experienced Spherion recruiters discuss the latest trends in the job market and provide advice on making the most of your job search. This month's recruiter, Stephanie Poole, has more than 10 years in the staffing industry and is the top direct hire recruiter in Houston.
1. What are the advantages of using a recruiter in my job search?
Candidates who utilize staffing agencies and recruiters have access to jobs that are not necessarily listed on traditional job boards and that are available now. We have the tools to locate the companies that best match the position they are looking for instead of the candidate blindly mass-applying to a multitude of jobs that come across in their job search. It is certainly more effective and less time-consuming to utilize the services a recruiter can provide you, as opposed to looking for the perfect fit and not knowing where to find it. A recruiter can serve as a valuable partner in any candidate's job search.
2. What are some tips for first time job seekers or recent graduates coming into a job market that is proceeding cautiously in making hiring decisions?
Take time to consider your job search as if you were hiring someone for your own business. Consider your talents and experiences and really present those as individual selling points. Ask yourself how would you be an asset to a company?
It is also a good idea to consider internships pre and post graduation. There are a wide variety of summer internships available to new or recent graduates that serve as a great way to get your foot in the door and learn more about the company you would ideally like to work for.
I also recommend networking as much as possible, attending job fairs and exploring professional social networking sites such as LinkedIn.
3. What types of things can candidates do to distinguish themselves from the pack?
Do your homework. Have a general understanding of the company. A great place to start is by visiting the company's Web site for recent news, press releases and corporate events they may have sponsored or participated in. This will show the person you are interviewing with that you are interested in the company and that you have taken the time to get to know more about them. Also, keep track of where you are sending resume and be sure to follow-up with recruiters and companies. It's ok to pick up phone and request an interview. Above all, you must have confidence and understand your skills. Certainly don't be afraid to ask the employer for their hiring process timeline.
4. What is the biggest misperception about recruiters?
That we do not offer competitive wages and that we charge a fee for our services. However, we do work for our candidates to present the most competitive wages and absolutely do not charge our candidates for our services. Job seekers should never have to pay for the services of a recruiter.
"An increasing number of workers are making their commutes more productive by using the latest gadgets and technologies, turning this traditional "down time" into a way to get their "to do" list under control. Check out a list of our picks or tell us which high tech toys you recommend."
Q: Dear Seymour, I am weeks away from beginning my maternity leave from work. I have growing anxiety about the long absence from work and worry that I will return to a mess. Do you have any advice on how to prepare for my maternity leave?
- Submitted by Avery Stimey, Morganton, North Carolina
A: Dear Avery,
Maternity leave should be a time for you to focus and enjoy life with your newborn baby, not stressing about how your office will fare while you are out. The key to ensuring an anxiety-free leave is to be as prepared as possible in advance of your absence. Here are a few tips on how to prepare:
- Agree on a back-up plan. Talk with your boss about how your job duties will be covered while you are away. Many employers will supply a temporary employee to serve as your backup while you are away, or a colleague who will be picking up your duties. Discuss which of your ongoing responsibilities will absolutely need to be handled while on leave, and keep a list of these duties.
- Leave Instructions. Once you have agreed with your boss on a list of responsibilities that will be handled by your stand in, develop detailed instructions for each. Err on the side of too much detail, rather than too little. You may even try a "run through" with someone non-related to your job just to be sure your instructions are clear and easy to understand.
- Maintain open communication with your boss. Remain as open as possible with your boss about doctors' appointments, return plans, etc. For example, if you plan on breastfeeding your baby and will require time at work to pump, make your boss aware and make arrangements to do so ahead of time. Simply avoid springing surprises on your boss or coworkers.
- Get square with Human Resources. Most companies require you to fill out certain forms or paperwork related to your impending birth, such as life and health insurance changes, tax data, and leave-related information. You don't want to leave these to the last minute. Visit with your HR department as early as you can and complete the required forms. This will be one less item you'll need to worry about.
- Breathe. You've covered all the bases and you've prepared as best you can for your maternity leave. Now it's time to reap the benefits of all your early planning. So relax, breathe easy and enjoy this amazing time in your life.
Q: Dear Seymour, I have employed every tactic I can think of trying to find a job in my specialty, with no luck. Do you have any advice on how I can open up new opportunities for my career?
- Submitted by Sandra Welch, Park City, UT
A: Dear Sandra,
This is an all-too-familiar scenario for many workers given our current labor market conditions. Many job seekers have done all the right things from networking to crafting a perfect resume and still come up empty.
Now is the time to reevaluate your approach and expectations, keeping in mind that despite a change in plans, you don't have to abandon your dreams permanently. On the contrary, chasing a more realistic goal provides an opportunity to secure skills and abilities that you can transfer over to your first-choice profession when the time comes.
In the meantime, try these tactics to broaden your job choices:
- Become a student again. In some professions and industries, attaining a graduate degree may give you a leg up on the competition and help land the job you desire. Before making the expensive and time-consuming leap, thoroughly investigate the positions you want to ensure a graduate degree will provide a good return on investment.
- Train. Consider training opportunities to build additional, and perhaps more marketable, skills. Some training courses are offered for reasonable cost and in a short timeframe.
- Re-evaluate your job search. Use this time to comprehensively identify what it is you love to do. Go back and reconsider your interests, passions, and abilities. Go back to the drawing board and research industries or professions that you may have missed the first time around, but that match your personal and professional goals.
- Follow the jobs. It may be time to consider broadening the geographic scope of your job search. Go online, tap into your network, and research which cities are hiring at a faster pace than the national average or that may be experiencing significant growth.
Just remember, this is a backup plan that will sustain your career growth during this tenuous labor market and certainly doesn't mean your dreams of building a long and prosperous career in your specialty are over.
The nightmarish temp job ... we've all had them. Now you can relive every awkward, cringing moment with My Temporary Life, Spherion's original Web series based upon YOUR worst temping stories.
Spherion is an employer of choice to 300,000 individuals. We've been finding rewarding career opportunities and job experiences that prove a great match for individuals' skills and expertise for 60+ years.
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