Candidate Screening Dashing Through the Maze

Candidate Screening Dashing Through the Maze Part One We’ve all been candidates at one stage. Its a rite of passage. If you are not one of the lucky few who have been offered a position through a family member or friend, you’ve probably submitted a CV online through a job board or applied through a company website. At this stage you’ve entered a labyrinth of twists and turns and sometimes a pit of despair, and so find yourself asking  Is my application being looked at? Do people care? Why did I never receive a call? Why is my self-worth so horribly damaged by all of this? The Desktop Screening Process From a corporate recruiters perspective, (whom average around 30-40 open positions at a time), the first sweep is a ruthless cull (Don’t worry, its not you; its what you’ve done and what you know). Recruiters will catch the first glance of your application in their inbox or more likely an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) which may sound like a new terminator model, but it’s what we recruiters use to maintain control over what cannot be controlled; the hiring process. The ‘system’ even rates you; that’s right, in many large organizations the software makes the decision for recruiters and your CV is put through a funnel, reducing the number of applications from 100+ to often around 10 based on keywords and questions. That’s the start. Smart recruiters will double check the original list of applications on the off-chance a hidden gem is concealed amongst the masses; if not, you have probably already been sent an automated decline email which seems impersonal because it is. In an ideal world, a recruiter will talk you through the why’s and wherefore’s but with time pressures, it is often not possible. Again, practices differ but if your CV shows promise in other areas you are then added to what is called a ‘’pipeline’’ or ‘’talent pool’’ for future consideration. Ultimately, if you pass this stage you’ve done well when you consider the sheer volume of applications. If the recruiter called you instead â€" it’s because the role is confidential OR they simply have had no response from advertising. Take it as a compliment. Whether this part of the process remains as key as it is today shall likely be revealed over time and with automation and job aggregator capability in mind. Talent Acquisition leaders talk of ‘talent pools’ (a pool of talent: often a folder on a desktop or in rare circumstances a real-time database of validated and available talent) to bring down ‘cycle-time’ (how long it takes to hire someone), but in reality many teams still cannot get this right due to the time and resource investment.  Regardless, every new role is an opportunity to get the brand out there, generate interest and excite more people so for now, enjoy the ride. I’ve rarely seen candidates talk their way from a decline email into what is known as the long-list, but don’t be disheartened. It’s happened to the best of us.   The Phone Screen This call is almost certainly one of the most overlooked parts of your journey, predominantly because people are caught off-guard almost every time. Why? Because it is unexpected. An appointment has not been made, you have not had time to prepare and suddenly a hand shoots out of the maze wall and hands you a receiver. I’ve declined many applications at this point based on what may seem to candidates, to simply be a delightful exchange of words, and here’s why: If you’ve applied for a position with the company I represent but have no recollection of the event, that tells me all I need to know about your attention to detail, level of interest and personal administration skills. You don’t have to take the call because your phone is ringing… particularly not whilst answering the call of nature or consuming a meal that allows only a grunt in response. If you’ve made it to phone screen you will almost undoubtedly be called back, perhaps let this one go. If you simply cannot resist the urge, then answer and offer to call back in an hour from a more quiet location. Recruiters are phone ‘’experts’’.  We spend an inordinate amount of time interviewing, talking and listening.  You’d be surprised what a voice can give away. Not only are we listening to your words, but the inflections in your voice, your volume, your breathing, what’s happening around you etc. The point of this call which can easily fall within the bracket of a pseudo first interview is to clarify a few items with candidates.  We use it to double-check any gaps in work history and more often than not, discover salary expectations and availability. As with any step of the process, its make or break. You’re either going to stumble over your words and replay the conversation over in your head for an eternity or nail it and make the list of individuals being put in front of hiring managers. Its an important conversation so treat is as such. Part Two takes you deeper into the often murky depths of the process and the climactic interview, negotiation and hire… Author: The ‘Acquirer’ â€"  No small dose of healthy HR skepticism. A career in Talent Acquisition leadership in global companies from the heat of the Asia Pacific to the crisp air of Europe.   Pragmatic, strategic, and every now and again… serious.

Surviving a Resource Action - A Different Perspective - Career Pivot

Surviving a Resource Action - A Different Perspective - Career Pivot Surviving a Resource Action I have two clients who are surviving a resource action from a major employer. One had her position eliminated, and one was moved to a new position within the organization. Lots of similar emotions for both of them! They are both relieved that the long-awaited resource action has happened. Weeks ago, the company announced that the changes were coming, so it became like working in an intensive care ward. Everyone was waiting to see who would die…I mean, get laid off, and who would recover…keep their jobs. Grief and Sorrow There were grief and sorrow for both of them. My client, who was adversely affected by theresource action, wondered “why was I laid off when there were others less worthy could have been?” My client, that survived theresource actionwondered “why was I selected to stay when there were more worthy people who were laid off?” Some of it was being in the wrong place at the wrong time and being in the right place at the right time. (More: Resource Action â€" It is not about you) Who is better off? In this case, I believe it is my client who was adversely affected by the resource action â€" i.e. laid off! WOW really? This was the third resource action that she had experienced, and the second where she was actually laid off. After the first resource action she experienced, she found a new position at the last moment. She knows what to do! Listen to the most recent episode Visited her financial adviser to get the facts. She discovered was she was in good shape and could go two years without working. Visited an employment lawyer. She had a number concerns about how her retirement was being handled. It felt good that she was covering all of the bases. Applied for another credit card. When you are out of work, cash is king. Having additional credit lines, even if you do not use or need them, is valuable. Set up an L.L.C. or Limited Liability Corporation. I have told her I do not want her to work full time again this year. She needs to recover from the stress of working in a toxic work environment. Having an L.L.C. allows her to perform freelance work and write off equipment purchases (new computer) that she would have bought anyway. This also allows her to date companies where she might want to work. (More: 7 Positive steps to take after being affected by a resource action) Who is worse off? In my humble opinion, those left behind are often the worse off. Workloads do not decrease but are spread across fewer people. Will this be the last resource action? NO! In 2003, I worked for Agere Systems, a spin-off from Lucent. We had small resource actions just about every month. I called this theChinese Water Torture of resource actionsâ€"drip…drip…drip… I was on one of the teams that ranked employees. UGH! That is something I never want to experience again. I volunteered for a resource action at the end of 2003. I have never regretted that decision. She is now motivated not to wait for the next resource action. She knows that she is living on borrowed time and needs to move to her next position on her own schedule and not that of her employer. Everyone is affected by a resource action. Some are more affected than others, and they may not realize it at the time. Have you been affected by a resource action? Who was worse off? Those who were laid off or those who stayed? Marc Miller Like what you just read? Share it with your friends using the buttons above. Like What You Read? Get Career Pivot Insights! Check out the Repurpose Your Career Podcast Do You Need Help With ...

Crack that Mostly Desired Interview at Ease - CareerAlley

Crack that Mostly Desired Interview at Ease - CareerAlley We may receive compensation when you click on links to products from our partners. The person who goes farthest is generally the one who is willing to do and dare. The sure-thing boat never gets far from the shore. Dale Carnegie Finding the best job involves a lot of effort and time on the part of career-oriented individuals. Most careerists in speeding up the process of job search ends up messing the process entirely. What you need to do is plan a specific approach towards job search and take calculated steps in your pursuit of bagging a great professional stand. Some Tips on Successful Job Search Well, to speed up the process of job search, you can consider following the below-mentioned tips to be successful in your endeavor Limit your Job Search being a fresh graduate, you surely know your professional interests. Therefore, make it a point to apply for only relevant jobs that matches your interest and suits your needs perfectly. Assess your skills prior to going ahead with the job application. You can also consider enhancing your skill in that particular work discipline before hitting the apply button. Set Clear Goals/Objectives while on a job search, consider establishing long-term, but exclusive career goals. Setting up goals for that particular year would help you to seal a continuous career growth. Alternatively, also consider improving your networking and communication skills and maintain the network throughout. It is important that you continuously keep yourself motivated. Understand your Wants/Needs restricting your job search might require you to face some specific questions regarding your job search. Questions like, what are my career interest can often pop up in your mind. However, if you tend to be unsure about your proficiency or skills, consider making a list outlining your areas of excellence. Create a Social Media Identity with Social Media getting powerful, you can never rule out the possibility of your prospective employer searching for you at a social networking site. Therefore, make sure to create a positive identity of yourself on Social Media websites like, Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn. Remember, to exhibit a responsible and sensible self on such websites. Sell yourself Well Once, you get an interview call from a prospective organization; always make sure to sell yourself well. Remember, the interview session is the best place where you can make yourself available for the organization. Demonstrate your key skills properly and exhibit your managerial skill at best. Answer questions like why should we hire you with utmost positivity without being overly explainable. Be Different from the Rest Well, this is important for creating an edge during the interview round. If you have been shortlisted for a particular post in an organization of your choice then, always consider to do your homework well. Know everything about the company that might come helpful during the interview. Always try to make a difference among all others present for the interview. Well, while on a job search, you must always remember that the path will not always be rosy and it will have its own frustrating moments. However, you must never give up on any situation and lose hope. On the hindsight, the focus must always remain on your goal and the approach must be positive. Once, you crack an interview, always remember to study the employment contract properly for transpiring your efforts and dreams into reality. Byline These top tips on successful job search is brought to you by Melissa Spears, who offer specialized ideas on everything related to job search. This is a Guest post. If you would like to submit a guest post to CareerAlley, please follow these guest post guidelines. Good luck in your search.Visit me on Facebook

How Much Time Do You Have For a Professional Resume Writing Service?

How Much Time Do You Have For a Professional Resume Writing Service?What is the best professional resume writing services in less than 24 hours? That depends on a number of factors. But the general rule is, the more the work required, the greater the time you should give to perfect your resume. Consider this - if you hired a professional resume writer within the first two hours, that is far too little time to prepare your resume.You can try to cut-and-paste your resume, but, again, this is not a very efficient way to write your resume. When you are that fresh out of college, it may not be so easy to remember everything that you are supposed to have in your resume, let alone spell out every word.If you have to cut-and-paste your resume, try to do so only if your professional resume writer can do so quickly. And for that matter, it is even better if your resume is written by someone who is willing to work through it as you go.If you are writing your resume, then, your priority should b e the needs of your future employer. And, certainly, he or she will want to know what you know, how well you did it, and how well you will do it in the future. So, your resume is an important component of your resume, and not just the content.However, some experts say that, the best professional resume writing services don't even need to be time-sensitive. They are more often than not easier to read and even easier to understand. And as time goes by, they are also less likely to become outdated.Although, with a professional resume you don't necessarily have to wait for a while before you have a chance to look it over, still, this is the fastest way to do it. It is for this reason that most companies will hire their own professional resume writers.The best professional resume writing services will ask for your resume with proof of all the information you can provide. In other words, they will ask for your employment history, your educational qualifications, your salary records, refer ences, and so on. So, you don't even have to worry about something being lost in translation.To sum up, the best professional resume writing services have a specific deadline in mind for you. This is also true for the process of writing your resume. Make sure that you plan out every detail ahead of time, and know how much time you have to finish your job interview.

Online Professional Resume Writing Services Offer One-Stop Employment Search

Online Professional Resume Writing Services Offer One-Stop Employment SearchIf you are looking for quality employment opportunities in the area of online professional resume writing, then Seattle is one of the top places to search. The popularity of the internet has made it much easier for people who want to create their own careers online. People are now more confident about venturing into a new field of work.To promote yourself in this field of business, one of the best methods to gain knowledge on how to do this job is by hiring online professional resume writing services. It is more convenient to use such services as they can gather all the required information needed to create your job-worthy profile. Such services also help you to get your resume organized and ready for submission to the online job portal.Most online career services offer professional resume writing services to their clients. In the past, job seekers had to search for several outsourcing companies and provide d etails of their resumes. If they can do it themselves, then there is no reason for them to put all their efforts into it. But with the advent of the internet, many companies have to outsource their work so that they can focus on what matters most - their customers.In the past, Internet technology was limited to the things that we now see and do everyday. Now, the world has opened up to reach out to the public in ways that can be amazing. Now, people with an innovative mindset can learn how to effectively market themselves.Many people these days find it easy to reach out to thousands of people across the globe via email and social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter. Moreover, the competition in the job market is fierce and many of the job seekers are seeking opportunities of making contacts with people from other countries.A Seattle resume writing service will make it easy for job hunters to get the right profile completed quickly. Such services can offer customers a range of services to help them market themselves. For example, it can send out multiple copies of their resume to different areas of the country so that applicants can get a chance to meet each other.Job seekers from other cities and states can also use Seattle resume writing services to help them find the right opportunities and land a job in their area. These services will also help job seekers to learn more about their job-market and provide them information regarding job placement and interview skills. So, if you are looking for online resume writing services, Seattle is definitely the best place to start.

Top Choices of Free Eady Resume Writing

Top Choices of Free Eady Resume Writing In the majority of cases you merely cut and paste the info and after that save it under a different file name. Free resume format examples are an excellent place to commence. You want to abide by a simple format. First format is extremely important. The Upside to Free Eady Resume Writing Even should you decide to modify your work objective later, it is quite vital that you choose a temporary objective for the time being. Since you might not have lots of experience, it's important to include information that's pertinent to your intended job like coursework, projects, extracurricular activities, or volunteer work. So once you're contemplating how to compose a resume, don't forget that you need to be selling your abilities and accomplishments, not only listing your work history and your old responsibilities. Your resume, after all, isn't an autobiography, but instead a summary of your previous experience and qualifications. If you are i n need of a quick kick-start on developing a template first, have a look at a resume builder before selecting a professional. Therefore, if you're a bartender searching for a better job, a Bartender Blank Resume Template can help you a whole lot. Format of resume isn't an add-on as it plays principal function in earning your profile powerful. Project Manager Blank Resume Templates do not will need to seem stylish but they need to appear professional. Utilizing a custom resume instead of a generic one is going to greatly increase your odds of an interview, as you'll be a better match in the view of the reader. Few resources are able to make a huge difference when you have written resume before. It's also important to think about the type of work you genuinely are interested in being hired to do. Everything in your resume needs to be simple to read and simple to comprehend. The Most Popular Free Eady Resume Writing A great editing job will take just a little longerand some part icular tactics intended to catch resume errors. To create the video resume, make certain you dress up appropriately, speak clearly and don't make distracting motions. There are several types of resumes out there. Scannable resumes need specific page designs because computer scanners can't read certain products. Where to Find Free Eady Resume Writing Thus, resume writing is an undertaking, which every work applicant should experience. A CV is the best opportunity to introduce yourself to an employer. Additional a CV really isn't the thing, where you are able to save your expenditures. Do a search utilizing any of the big search engines such as Google, Yahoo, or MSN and you're going to find loads of resources to help you. Utilizing a list makes it possible to slice and dice your information, emphasizing qualities which are most relevant to every particular job. Resume templates are perfect for individuals who don't possess the skill of producing impressive resumes. Free E ady Resume Writing - Overview An individual who's charging careers would elect for a different kind and format. If you take a look at all our free resume writing examples, you are going to observe they employ clear, succinct sentences that get right to the point. Then a totally free blank resume form is exactly what you have to fill in the blanks. Free Eady Resume Writing Fundamentals Explained The writer is likely to make contact and start to work with you immediately! When you place your experience onto your resume, be certain to incorporate a quick overview of the enterprise to enable the reader understand what the company does. Resume videos ought to be well tailored and ought to relate to the job you're applying for.

A Genie And A Road Map How To Make Successful Decisions - Work It Daily

A Genie And A Road Map How To Make Successful Decisions - Work It Daily The following post is an excerpt from What the Hell Is Going On in My Life? â€" Using Your Birthdate to Find Answers About Relationships, Career, Money, Sex Health by Larry Schwimmer. Imagine taking a long trip in your car. You’re not totally sure where you’re going, but you’re thinking you can figure it out once you get on the road. Then, as you drive for a few hours you start wondering, “Maybe I’m not exactly sure where I’m headed.” Unfortunately, there are no places to stop and ask for help. Eventually, you realize that you’re lost. Amazingly, at that very moment, a genie magically appears in the passenger seat next to you. He tells you to open your glove compartment, where you’ll find a road map with specific instructions, including the dates when you will get to each stop on your journey. The map is your assurance that you’ll get to your destinations on time. As an astrologer, just like the genie, I’ll show you how to find your road map, plus use it to guide you to where you want to go. However, the way to get to where you want to go in life is by the decisions you make. I’ll show you how to make your decisions at a time when they will be most successful. Your road map to making successful decisions is sitting in a file drawer in your home, a safety deposit box, or in the archives of the hospital where you were born. It is called your birth certificate, and it has your precise date, place, and time of birth. All you have to do is find it and I’ll show you how you can turn your birth information into a map that shows the major events of your life, and the best times to make those events successful. I’ll show you how to use astrology for decision-making. The good news: You do NOT need to have prior knowledge of astrology. This book will explain everything you need to know to understand the changes you’re experiencing in your life, the decisions you may be required to make, and how to make them at the perfect time so they will be successful. The use of astrology is to reveal choices to you â€" not to make your choice for you. In that sense, as my brilliant astrology colleague Ray Merriman says: “It is a choice-revealer, not a choice-decider.” Your own free will can always be brought to bear on any situation you face in life. You are the master of your own destiny. A Good Time A Bad Time To Start A Job! Suppose, for example, after interviewing for a new job â€" you receive an offer. Your new employer calls you on the telephone, giving you a choice of two potential starting dates. You can start your new job in July; a time when your astrological chart indicates is a bad one because you’ll work hard for little recognition and great frustration; or you can start in August, a positive date when your astrological chart says you will be successful, well received, and have opportunities for advancement. Assuming your new employer gave you these two choices, which date would you choose to start your new job? Therein lies the practical value of using astrology for decision-making. It can give you the perfect time to make your decision a successful one that will benefit you. Of course, the choice is always yours. Yet, while career decisions are important, you can also use astrology for decision-making in many other areas of your life. Watch This Webinar Did you ever wish you had your own personal advisor who could help you understand the surprising, confusing, and challenging events happening in your career? Did you ever wish you had a career life coach that could provide you with the positive timing to know when to apply for a job, win a promotion or start a successful business? This webinar will provide you with answers to questions such as: When is the best time find a great job? When will I get the promotion I want? When should I start (or expand) my new business? When am I likely to have problems or conflicts with bosses and co-workers? What should I do if I’m in the wrong job or career? When is the best time to change a job or career? What can I do to overcome career obstacles? Join us for a special webinar on using astrology in your career. Presenter: Larry Schwimmer, author of What the Hell Is Going On in My Life? In this webinar, ”The Best Time For Your Next Career Move â€" Using Your Birthdate Astrology,” bestselling business author, life coach and astrologer, Larry Schwimmer provides those answers.   WATCH NOW ?   Photo Credit: Shutterstock Have you joined our career growth club?Join Us Today!