Friday, August 20, 2010

Why Isn't That Flipping Recruiter Calling Me?

It's been quite a while since I've written and thankfully I can attribute that to being busy with work - and also with taking some time with my daughter this summer before she left again for USC (go Gamecocks!).  Many times, I receive unsolicited resumes (which is a great thing!) from candidates who see a specifc posting I have out on Linked In, The Ladders, my web site, etc.  A bit of advice that I'm sure most recruiters out there would concur with:
1.  If you get no response, it is due simply to the fact that there is not enough time in the day.  If your background is truly a fit for the position (or any others they may be working on), believe me, WE WILL get in touch with you.  Great candidates are hard to find!  I personally "file" all resumes into my database of those candidates whose credentials and experience (per your resume) fit my area of expertise. (Some ideas re: how to keep in front of recruiters when a new opportunity arises the week after next.)
2.  When you see a position out there that you are interested in and feel you are a good fit, tailor your resume to fit that position.  For example, most of my searches/opportunities are currently in Strategic Sourcing and Procurement - sometimes, my clients require a certain skill set in particular categories, industries, etc.  Your resume needs to reflect this - the best way to do this is to describe each position you've held in short paragraph format, and then list some accomplishments you've made under each paragraph.  (More to come on resumes next week.)  We HAVE to understand what you do and what you've done by reading this document in order to be motivated to call you.
Many candidates will call or email after they are not contacted by me as to how I KNOW they aren't a good fit for the postion(s) I have posted.  Believe me, if your resume is written well, good recruiters know a good fit - from a skill set, experience, education, background perspective - just by looking at the resume.  There are a plethora of reasons the fit isn't right - for example, if you were in a similar position a few years back and took on more responsibility since then (direct reports, larger spend portfolio, expanded role), it's not going to make sense for someone to take a step back.  Yes, I realize you CAN execute the role, but is it really the next best step in your career?  My clients want candidates who are going to grow and flourish in their organizations, not take a step back, end up dissatisfied and then leave after a year or two.  Thanks for reading and I'm back on the once-a-week writing trail again!