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New Column! Recruiter Q & A

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.