The Daily Recruiter

Reader Question:

When changing my career into new industries, how do I effectively create an image that I can learn and am eager to learn any type of new business that wants a success minded person in this struggling economy?

Recruiter’s Advice:

It’s going to be difficult. You need to sell the intangibles. There are 3 factors that make people successful: Attitude, Skills required to do the job, and work ethic.

Sell those skills to a future employer.

Reader Question:

Every job seeking website I’ve come across lately requires a fee to become a “premium” member. Without paying that fee the websites’ are generally useless. Is it worth the money to become a premium member on one of these sites to facilitate thorough resume distribution and the ability to apply for more “robust” positions?

Recruiter’s Advice:

Thank you for your inquiry regarding your question on if you should pay money to a job board to become a “premium member.” It is my experience that paying additional money to a job board to increase your visibility in the marketplace will probably not be worth the money. In today’s market, there is a great deal of talent available and the companies are diligent in dissecting the job boards on exact skill sets they are looking for and if you have the those skill sets, chances are they or a recruiter will find you. Please understand that this is entirely an individual decision and the fee may increase your visibility on their site a bit but overall, it is my opinion that this service will not greatly increase your chances of being contacted by a prospective employer. All the best and good luck.

Reader Question:

I am currently searching for my next opportunity inthe job market and have found that many companies in need of leadership in recruitment and patient customer services do not directly seek candidates in the usual job posting manner. In fact based on my experiences they tend to be unaware their need or unwilling to make the investment to structure internal departments to support these bottom lines.

My question is: how do I first identify these companies and their needs and then approach them with solutions that they will be comfortable with and support. I do have very successful experiences in making this happen however was never faced with searching for organizations that are in need.

Recruiter’s Advice:

First off, I would like to thank-you for the email.

Although I am not entirely sure what you do, I can give you this advice. I would use the web as your main search engine for a new role. I do not mean going to a job board such as Monster or CareerBuilder, but rather using Google or another search engine to match keywords for the specific role you are looking for. From time to time you can find internal postings from companies that may be looking for your type of specific skill set. Don’t just send your resume, pick up the phone and call someone. A resume can not effectively communicate who you are or what you can bring to the table. It is after all a snapshot, not a full picture of your past experiences.

You should also try to network with any of the connections you have made through the years. This can be tough to do, but you never know who a friend or acquaintance may know in order to point you in the right direction. Best of luck to you in the upcoming year and all of us here at the SearchLogix Group hope you have a very successful 2009.

Reader Question:

I worked for the same company for 30 years where I started in a low level managerial position in HR and after a number of promotions and assignments ended my career as the VP/Senior Dir. of Distribution and Logistics. In view of today’s job market, what should be the best approach in my job search?….pursue a Director + position or consider a lower position and work up from there.

Recruiter’s Advice:

I would recommend a multi prong approach for your job search. The first thing would be to leverage your network and see if that can spark any conversations. The job boards are obviously another option, although candidates often mention to me that they spend hours and the return is nominal. In other words, do not depend solely on Career Builder, Monster, etc. & make sure you are using your ‘search’ time effectively.

If you decide to pursue ‘Director’ level roles be prepared for a deliberate search process. I have heard this from quite a few candidates, particularly over the last 2 months that companies are taking longer to fill roles.

If you find a company that you would like to work with, accepting a Manager role with the opportunity to be promoted is definitely a viable option.

Reader Question:

I am trying to get back in to the logistics/transportation field after being out for 6 years. What is the best way to showcase my knowledge of the industry without being up to date with current systems?

Recruiter’s Advice:

Thank-you very much for your recent inquiry to our firm about getting your career path back on line and what to do in regards to establishing some key points to reflect your industry knowledge. I would advise you to formulate a resume that is really built around your past accomplishments. Most people, when they make the step to get “back in the industry” will put together a general resume that reflects everything in their tool bag. I would strongly advise you to be very specific and concise while reflecting your industry achievement and knowledge. I would also get involved in any local chapters of Supply chain/Logistics organizations such as the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) or any spin off type groups. Talking with people in the know and sharing your experiences will help you to find the right employer. If you had success in the past there is no reason to think you can not do it again! Sharing ideas and taking a pulse of what is happening in industry will allow you to search for the right job.

I hope this has been helpful and I wish you all the best in securing a fantastic position.