DISCOVER STAFFING is currently seeking an Inventory Control specialist. Must have 3-5+ years experience with inventory control. Will be responsible for monthly counts, supplying parts to production, assisting procurement, receiving, and other general warehouse functions as needed. Computer experience required, MAS90 experience helpful. Must have forklift experience. Experience with international shipping and receiving is a plus. Salary range is $35,000 to $40,000 per year. Position is located in Smyrna.
Please send your resume to laura@discoverstaffing.com for consideration.
Monday, June 22, 2009
The Resume Process
Is My Résumé Being Read?
By Anthony Balderrama, CareerBuilder.com writer
If you've watched the news lately, you've seen a reporter standing at a job fair and a line of job seekers winding out the door. Inevitably the reporter interviews an employer who says that for a few open positions, hundreds of applicants have submitted résumés.
You immediately wonder: How many of those applications actually get read?
In a perfect world, hiring managers would have plenty of time to thoroughly read every single résumé that comes across their desks and contact each person to explain why the company is choosing someone else. In reality, the job seekers outnumber available positions in today's job market, and hiring managers are too busy to hold your hand through every step of the process.
In fact, you're lucky if you hear back at all. Many companies contact you only if they want more information or to schedule an interview. You never know if you didn't qualify for the job or if your résumé was ever even looked at.
Résumé neverland
"I'm pretty sure that résumé neverland exists -- especially in a completely flooded job-hunting climate due to the poor economy," says Kristen Fischer, the author of "Ramen Noodles, Rent and Résumés: An After-College Guide to Life." "With so many people applying for jobs, it's easy to discard a résumé based simply on a typo or unpleasant formatting."
Of course, job seekers can (and should) avoid typos with proofreading. But the bigger fear is that powers out of their control could sabotage their job prospects.
"Résumés submitted online can also disappear into the cyber black hole," Fischer says. She says these online abysses are often the result of generic e-mail addresses, which can mean all applications funnel into one account even if they're for separate positions. Or worse, applications and general business questions go to the same destination.
Even if you can't prevent the black hole from existing, you can do your best to get your application out of there.
Be proactive
Rather than take your chances with the proverbial résumé black hole, you should be proactive when you apply for work, says Justin Honaman, author of "Make It Happen! Live Out Your Personal Brand."
"There is no doubt that hitting the 'submit' button and hoping [or] praying is probably not the only way to approach an opportunity," he says. "When positions are posted on a company's Web site, my experience has been that I receive a huge number of submissions, and at times, more than 80 percent of the applicants are not even qualified for the position. Most recruiters follow a multistep evaluation approach."
According to Honaman, recruiters and hiring managers ask three questions when they receive applications from job seekers:
· Does candidate meet the minimum criteria for the position?
The minimum criteria might include a certain level of education, years of experience or certification.
· Is the candidate still in the running even after she has stated her requirements or wishes for the position?
If an applicant's salary requirements or unwillingness to relocate conflicts with the needs of the job, then the employer might remove him or her from consideration.
· Does the candidate bring more to the table than the defined position requirements?
Employers are happy to have someone who fulfills the requirements of the position, but they're even happier to hire someone who brings additional assets.
Why do you care about this? Because once you submit your application and it passes these hurdles, it doesn't mean you're out of résumé neverland. You're still just one of many applicants who can get lost in the shuffle, even in the most efficient hiring department.
According to Honaman, a multiprong method of attack is the best way to guarantee you're not overlooked:
1. Online résumé submission
"Most companies require this to ensure internal company recruiting processes are followed," Honaman says. Plus, it's the easiest way to get your name in the hands of someone at the company.
2. Make a personal connection
Honaman suggests networking with someone in the company to get an edge over other applicants. If you can speak with a knowledgeable source who can offer information about the hiring manager, the team or the position, you'll have more insight on what the employer's looking for.
3. Appropriate follow-up
Once you've submitted your application, Honaman recommends contacting the company again, as long as you're respectful and professional. Don't hound anyone about the job, just check in to see where the process stands.
Anthony Balderrama is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com and its job blog, The Work Buzz. He researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues.
By Anthony Balderrama, CareerBuilder.com writer
If you've watched the news lately, you've seen a reporter standing at a job fair and a line of job seekers winding out the door. Inevitably the reporter interviews an employer who says that for a few open positions, hundreds of applicants have submitted résumés.
You immediately wonder: How many of those applications actually get read?
In a perfect world, hiring managers would have plenty of time to thoroughly read every single résumé that comes across their desks and contact each person to explain why the company is choosing someone else. In reality, the job seekers outnumber available positions in today's job market, and hiring managers are too busy to hold your hand through every step of the process.
In fact, you're lucky if you hear back at all. Many companies contact you only if they want more information or to schedule an interview. You never know if you didn't qualify for the job or if your résumé was ever even looked at.
Résumé neverland
"I'm pretty sure that résumé neverland exists -- especially in a completely flooded job-hunting climate due to the poor economy," says Kristen Fischer, the author of "Ramen Noodles, Rent and Résumés: An After-College Guide to Life." "With so many people applying for jobs, it's easy to discard a résumé based simply on a typo or unpleasant formatting."
Of course, job seekers can (and should) avoid typos with proofreading. But the bigger fear is that powers out of their control could sabotage their job prospects.
"Résumés submitted online can also disappear into the cyber black hole," Fischer says. She says these online abysses are often the result of generic e-mail addresses, which can mean all applications funnel into one account even if they're for separate positions. Or worse, applications and general business questions go to the same destination.
Even if you can't prevent the black hole from existing, you can do your best to get your application out of there.
Be proactive
Rather than take your chances with the proverbial résumé black hole, you should be proactive when you apply for work, says Justin Honaman, author of "Make It Happen! Live Out Your Personal Brand."
"There is no doubt that hitting the 'submit' button and hoping [or] praying is probably not the only way to approach an opportunity," he says. "When positions are posted on a company's Web site, my experience has been that I receive a huge number of submissions, and at times, more than 80 percent of the applicants are not even qualified for the position. Most recruiters follow a multistep evaluation approach."
According to Honaman, recruiters and hiring managers ask three questions when they receive applications from job seekers:
· Does candidate meet the minimum criteria for the position?
The minimum criteria might include a certain level of education, years of experience or certification.
· Is the candidate still in the running even after she has stated her requirements or wishes for the position?
If an applicant's salary requirements or unwillingness to relocate conflicts with the needs of the job, then the employer might remove him or her from consideration.
· Does the candidate bring more to the table than the defined position requirements?
Employers are happy to have someone who fulfills the requirements of the position, but they're even happier to hire someone who brings additional assets.
Why do you care about this? Because once you submit your application and it passes these hurdles, it doesn't mean you're out of résumé neverland. You're still just one of many applicants who can get lost in the shuffle, even in the most efficient hiring department.
According to Honaman, a multiprong method of attack is the best way to guarantee you're not overlooked:
1. Online résumé submission
"Most companies require this to ensure internal company recruiting processes are followed," Honaman says. Plus, it's the easiest way to get your name in the hands of someone at the company.
2. Make a personal connection
Honaman suggests networking with someone in the company to get an edge over other applicants. If you can speak with a knowledgeable source who can offer information about the hiring manager, the team or the position, you'll have more insight on what the employer's looking for.
3. Appropriate follow-up
Once you've submitted your application, Honaman recommends contacting the company again, as long as you're respectful and professional. Don't hound anyone about the job, just check in to see where the process stands.
Anthony Balderrama is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com and its job blog, The Work Buzz. He researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Keeping Your Resume Up to Date
DISCOVER STAFFING works with a lot of individuals who are just entering the job market. Whether it is due to a lay off situation, a change in career path, or years of staying at home to raise a family; many people have not taken the time to update their resumes. MSN Careers offers these suggestions for making sure you area always prepared.
Rock Your Résumé in Any Situation
By Rachel Zupek, CareerBuilder.com writer
Whether you're currently employed, facing a layoff or looking for a job, keeping your résumé up-to-date is always important. In today's economy, however, it's even more vital to have a current copy of your résumé on hand. After all, you never know when an amazing job opportunity -- or pink slip -- might fall into your hands.
"You have to be ready to submit your résumé on short notice," says Dustin DeVries, senior director of Lead Dawg, a job search consulting firm. "Candidates who have taken time to update their résumé may be passed over for another candidate of similar caliber that is ready to go now. You just never know when that opportunity may land in your lap and you have to be ready to act."
Updating one's résumé today, however, may not be as easy as it once was. As job losses and layoffs continue to swell, people have to do more with less to enhance their résumés. Job seekers are unsure how to deal with lack of employment, gaps between work, title demotions, fewer duties and shortened job spans when updating their résumés.
Here are some ways to beef up your résumé if it is lacking in any of the following areas:
You have a gap between jobs
Depending on the length of the gap, Miriam Salpeter of Keppie Careers says you should fill in the gap with something you've been doing in your time off. This will show employers you've taken initiative during this period rather than waiting for something to fall into your lap.
"Consider getting actively involved in volunteer projects and/or consulting opportunities, even if you do the work for free," Salpeter says. "This will allow you to use your skills in a way that is worth describing on your résumé."
You've been laid off
No employer will be surprised see an applicant who's been laid off. Be honest about your departure, DeVries says. "In this economy, it's going to happen. Don't misrepresent that you're still employed by dating your last position as 'to present' if you're not currently with that company. [It's a] red flag if a recruiter sees [you] as currently employed when in fact you've been laid off."
You were hired recently but laid off right away due to the economy
Don't leave any employment off your résumé, no matter how short a period you may have held a job. Just don't explain the details on your résumé.
"In today's economy, most people will give you the benefit of the doubt that your departure was not a result of your performance," Salpeter says. "Be prepared to discuss it if it comes up in a conversation or interview."
You were demoted or had a title change
Titles are just that -- titles. They say nothing about your specific accomplishments and your track record of meeting or exceeding expectations for your organization, DeVries says.
"State your title, but focus [on] your achievements for the organization. Any good recruiter or potential employer is going to be most interested in your track record of meeting objectives no matter what your role," DeVries says. "A 'director' of marketing for one company may require something completely different from a 'director' role at another company. Focus on your measurable accomplishments."
You went from a senior-level position to a "filler" position at lower level
In this situation, it's critical to include an objective that outlines what type of position you're looking for at the company where you're applying, DeVries says.
"If you have to take a 'filler' position between professional positions, you need to include the role but place your focus on the activities you have maintained during that time to remain current in your professional field," he says. Volunteering, professional networking and taking classes are all things that will help keep you current.
You're a recent college graduate with little experience
Most people have skills that they don't realize are important résumé builders, Salpeter says. DeVries agrees, saying that experience occurs any time you're gaining insight and perspective in your chosen field. Classes, volunteer experience, internships, leadership activities and professional networking groups are all examples of experience you can incorporate in your résumé.
Now that you know how to correct any potentially sketchy parts of your résumé, here are five tips for keeping it up-to-date.
1. Keep up with trends
"Keep up-to-date with current trends for résumés and online profiles. Be sure that you are highlighting how you stand out and emphasizing what makes you special," Salpeter says.
2. Keep a brag book
DeVries suggests keeping a log of your performance reviews, coaching reports from managers, sales reports, goal assessments and the like to use as content for your résumé.
"You're going to be measured against someone else in most any position you may hold," he says. "Update this list each time you receive an e-mail from your manager or a report from your company. Include achievements applicable to the position to which you're submitting your résumé."
Additionally, Salpeter suggests keeping a file of any nice things that supervisors, clients and colleagues say about you, and asking for recommendations on social networking sites like LinkedIn.
3. List more than job duties
"Listing job duties on your résumé is OK, but include the metrics you were held accountable for and your performance to those goals," DeVries says. "Many people just list the duty but don't include the scale of their accountability and how they performed."
4. Always ask for feedback
Never stop asking for feedback or critique from colleagues, friends and experts. "You never know what someone may see in your résumé that needs further enhancement or may just need to be eliminated," DeVries says.
5. Keep lists
In order to keep your résumé up-to-date, you need to keep a running list of your accomplishments and things you've done in the workplace, and add to it regularly, Salpeter says. Keep track of your digital profile, too, and recognize that your digital footprint is an important part of your professional presentation and job search.
Rachel Zupek is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com and its job blog, The Work Buzz. She researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues.
Please contact your nearest DISCOVER STAFFING branch to see how we may be able to help you in your job search.
North Fulton Area: alpharetta@discoverstaffing.com
Gwinnett Area: gwinnett@discoverstaffing.com
Rock Your Résumé in Any Situation
By Rachel Zupek, CareerBuilder.com writer
Whether you're currently employed, facing a layoff or looking for a job, keeping your résumé up-to-date is always important. In today's economy, however, it's even more vital to have a current copy of your résumé on hand. After all, you never know when an amazing job opportunity -- or pink slip -- might fall into your hands.
"You have to be ready to submit your résumé on short notice," says Dustin DeVries, senior director of Lead Dawg, a job search consulting firm. "Candidates who have taken time to update their résumé may be passed over for another candidate of similar caliber that is ready to go now. You just never know when that opportunity may land in your lap and you have to be ready to act."
Updating one's résumé today, however, may not be as easy as it once was. As job losses and layoffs continue to swell, people have to do more with less to enhance their résumés. Job seekers are unsure how to deal with lack of employment, gaps between work, title demotions, fewer duties and shortened job spans when updating their résumés.
Here are some ways to beef up your résumé if it is lacking in any of the following areas:
You have a gap between jobs
Depending on the length of the gap, Miriam Salpeter of Keppie Careers says you should fill in the gap with something you've been doing in your time off. This will show employers you've taken initiative during this period rather than waiting for something to fall into your lap.
"Consider getting actively involved in volunteer projects and/or consulting opportunities, even if you do the work for free," Salpeter says. "This will allow you to use your skills in a way that is worth describing on your résumé."
You've been laid off
No employer will be surprised see an applicant who's been laid off. Be honest about your departure, DeVries says. "In this economy, it's going to happen. Don't misrepresent that you're still employed by dating your last position as 'to present' if you're not currently with that company. [It's a] red flag if a recruiter sees [you] as currently employed when in fact you've been laid off."
You were hired recently but laid off right away due to the economy
Don't leave any employment off your résumé, no matter how short a period you may have held a job. Just don't explain the details on your résumé.
"In today's economy, most people will give you the benefit of the doubt that your departure was not a result of your performance," Salpeter says. "Be prepared to discuss it if it comes up in a conversation or interview."
You were demoted or had a title change
Titles are just that -- titles. They say nothing about your specific accomplishments and your track record of meeting or exceeding expectations for your organization, DeVries says.
"State your title, but focus [on] your achievements for the organization. Any good recruiter or potential employer is going to be most interested in your track record of meeting objectives no matter what your role," DeVries says. "A 'director' of marketing for one company may require something completely different from a 'director' role at another company. Focus on your measurable accomplishments."
You went from a senior-level position to a "filler" position at lower level
In this situation, it's critical to include an objective that outlines what type of position you're looking for at the company where you're applying, DeVries says.
"If you have to take a 'filler' position between professional positions, you need to include the role but place your focus on the activities you have maintained during that time to remain current in your professional field," he says. Volunteering, professional networking and taking classes are all things that will help keep you current.
You're a recent college graduate with little experience
Most people have skills that they don't realize are important résumé builders, Salpeter says. DeVries agrees, saying that experience occurs any time you're gaining insight and perspective in your chosen field. Classes, volunteer experience, internships, leadership activities and professional networking groups are all examples of experience you can incorporate in your résumé.
Now that you know how to correct any potentially sketchy parts of your résumé, here are five tips for keeping it up-to-date.
1. Keep up with trends
"Keep up-to-date with current trends for résumés and online profiles. Be sure that you are highlighting how you stand out and emphasizing what makes you special," Salpeter says.
2. Keep a brag book
DeVries suggests keeping a log of your performance reviews, coaching reports from managers, sales reports, goal assessments and the like to use as content for your résumé.
"You're going to be measured against someone else in most any position you may hold," he says. "Update this list each time you receive an e-mail from your manager or a report from your company. Include achievements applicable to the position to which you're submitting your résumé."
Additionally, Salpeter suggests keeping a file of any nice things that supervisors, clients and colleagues say about you, and asking for recommendations on social networking sites like LinkedIn.
3. List more than job duties
"Listing job duties on your résumé is OK, but include the metrics you were held accountable for and your performance to those goals," DeVries says. "Many people just list the duty but don't include the scale of their accountability and how they performed."
4. Always ask for feedback
Never stop asking for feedback or critique from colleagues, friends and experts. "You never know what someone may see in your résumé that needs further enhancement or may just need to be eliminated," DeVries says.
5. Keep lists
In order to keep your résumé up-to-date, you need to keep a running list of your accomplishments and things you've done in the workplace, and add to it regularly, Salpeter says. Keep track of your digital profile, too, and recognize that your digital footprint is an important part of your professional presentation and job search.
Rachel Zupek is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com and its job blog, The Work Buzz. She researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues.
Please contact your nearest DISCOVER STAFFING branch to see how we may be able to help you in your job search.
North Fulton Area: alpharetta@discoverstaffing.com
Gwinnett Area: gwinnett@discoverstaffing.com
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Other Career Blog Resources
In my search to bring the most up to date and useful job seeking advice to the readers of the DISCOVER STAFFING Blog and Job Board, I have discovered for myself several great blogs on the subject. There are three in particular that I thought I would share. These are all current, up to date boards with frequent posts to keep you best informed.
Monster is probably the most well known job board available on the Internet. The Monster Blog has recently started a new series written by guest blogger, Jane Allerton. What makes this particularly insightful is that Allerton herself has been recently laid off as well. Readers can follow along with her own story and relate to it step by step as they to are searching for a new job.
Today's Workplace, a workplace fairness blog, provides insight on timely political issues that affect employees. Subjects such as "Green Collar Jobs", health care reform and the current state of America's auto industry are featured in several of the most recent postings. Individual politics aside, keeping ourselves informed these issues will make us more conscious of their effects on the economy.
Careers.org is a website that began back in 1995 and is continuing today to provide career advice of all types to job seekers. It is still a great resource of information today. Recent post include motivation quotes, links to resources for career education, and resume advice.
Continue to check out the DISCOVER STAFFING blog and job board for the most up to date information on jobs we have available as well as resources from all around the web to help you in your own job search.
Contacted your nearest DISCOVER STAFFING branch to see how we can help you.
North Fulton Area: alpharetta@discoverstaffing.com
Gwinnett Area: gwinnett@discoverstaffing.com
Monster is probably the most well known job board available on the Internet. The Monster Blog has recently started a new series written by guest blogger, Jane Allerton. What makes this particularly insightful is that Allerton herself has been recently laid off as well. Readers can follow along with her own story and relate to it step by step as they to are searching for a new job.
Today's Workplace, a workplace fairness blog, provides insight on timely political issues that affect employees. Subjects such as "Green Collar Jobs", health care reform and the current state of America's auto industry are featured in several of the most recent postings. Individual politics aside, keeping ourselves informed these issues will make us more conscious of their effects on the economy.
Careers.org is a website that began back in 1995 and is continuing today to provide career advice of all types to job seekers. It is still a great resource of information today. Recent post include motivation quotes, links to resources for career education, and resume advice.
Continue to check out the DISCOVER STAFFING blog and job board for the most up to date information on jobs we have available as well as resources from all around the web to help you in your own job search.
Contacted your nearest DISCOVER STAFFING branch to see how we can help you.
North Fulton Area: alpharetta@discoverstaffing.com
Gwinnett Area: gwinnett@discoverstaffing.com
Monday, June 15, 2009
Questions and Answers
From MSN Careers.
Why Doesn't a Company Call Back as Promised?
Correspondence from readers including am I too old to start a new career?
By Eve Tahmincioglu, MSNBC contributor
The questions I've been getting from readers lately have a lot to do with workers' perceptions of themselves, and how the job market is supposed to work.
Well, many of those perceptions are often wrong.
Some of you think you're too old to change careers. Others are worried that getting a job is all about having the perfect look. And still others think companies should have some set structure when hiring.
Well, time for a little "Your Career" reality check.
Here are some of your questions:
I began my job search last summer. As a recent graduate, I went to a college fair in February figuring it was my greatest hope. I talked to about 20 different companies and submitted my resume. Many of the companies that had indicated open positions didn't have any. There were about five still with hope. Of these, I have only had contact with two. One of them I spoke to verbally. The person I spoke to asked me to call back in two weeks if I hadn't heard anything from them. I did, and I haven't heard back.
What I am most frustrated with is the fact that they promised a certain time and failed to meet it. Why do companies make timeline promises and then fail to even keep the candidates in the loop? Is there a guideline as to when and how often candidates can follow up?
-- L.B., St. Louis, Mo.
If only there were some hiring playbook that all job seekers could get a copy of. IT DOES NOT EXIST, especially in this economic environment.
The hiring managers I talk to don't know what they are doing from one day to the next, and many are even wondering if their own jobs are secure. They are inundated with resumes and are walking a tightrope of needing to hire more workers but not having the money to do so.
You should follow up with e-mails and phone calls, but try to think logically about what's acceptable. Try not to become a pest.
Stop worrying about how they do what they do and concentrate on your job search. Are you choosing the right companies to apply to? Do you need more experience or extra training to make you stand out?
I was recently laid off from a job as an engineer due to a downturn in the electronics industry. I am around 50 with excellent career credentials and a passion for my work. My problem is that I broke two front teeth, which will need dentures to correct. I do need to be careful about speaking, as the missing teeth affect my speech mildly when I don't concentrate. I had the dental work scheduled, but the layoff came just before I was to get the work done. Now, I don't feel that I have the financial resources to pay for the dental work until I am working again. What can I do to minimize this fault?
-- C.T., Binghamton, N.Y.
Trying to hide the broken teeth and not treating them could end up doing more harm than good. If the teeth are broken on the gum line, you could end up with an infection, warns Carol A. Wooden, an Atlanta-based dentist and spokesperson for the Academy of General Dentistry.
Many dentists realize the economic hardships today, says Wooden, so you should contact your dentist and discuss working out a payment plan or trying some less expensive, temporary alternative.
Also, dental schools often offer low-cost treatment since dental students are providing the care, she adds. But it can take a while to get an appointment.
Another option is a dental clinic in your area, she says. The best way to find those is by contacting your state dental association or society.
If a quick solution doesn't materialize, you need to be confident when you go into an interview despite the broken teeth because hiring managers will pick up on your self-consciousness.
"The first sale is to sell yourself, if you really believe in yourself," says Ann Latham, president of consulting firm Uncommon Clarity Inc. "A lot of people have permanent defects worse than that. Don't be preoccupied with it."
You can bring up the teeth issue during the interview, she adds, but only if an opportunity arises. Don't force it.
My daughter graduated last spring with a B.S. in anthropology/archaeology from the University of New Mexico. She has recently moved back in with me and has not been able to find any job in her field, even though she applies online almost every day on archaeology job sites or USAJobs.
-- Susan Lachica, Phoenix, Ariz.
When your daughter applies for a job online it's like sending your resume into a big black hole. She needs to start networking, networking, networking.
She should connect with alumni at her school, talk to classmates and join groups in the industry online. In this economy, having an "in" is key with any job.
"Just having a BS in anthropology/archaeology isn't enough," says Joel Irish, a professor of anthropology at University of Alaska Fairbanks.
He offers some more targeted advice:
If she was trained in archaeological field methods while at school, "then it's harder to understand why she can't get hired. There are numerous Cultural Resource Management companies all over New Mexico, Arizona, and other southwest locations that are always hiring people to do fieldwork. However, she should also be aware that she may not get a year-round job, but rather be hired on a job-to-job basis."
She may also want to pursue a master's degree in archaeology if she's looking for a full-time supervisory job and does not want to be just a field worker, he adds.
I just turned 46, and for the past 17 years I've been a flight attendant for one of the United States legacy carriers. As you know, my job has changed very dramatically in the past 5 years, especially when it comes to job security and my paychecks.
I've been interested in the fields of network administration, network security and computer forensics. However, due to the years wasted as a flight attendant, I now see that my age might be an issue if I decide to pursue a change of careers. Of course, training will take two to four years, although I would easily be able to afford the financial commitment for the formal IT education.
I am very unsure as to the possibility of finding a job opportunity so close to the age of 50. Do you think it would be impossible to find another job at that point?
-- Lucia Bruce, Port Saint Lucie, Fla.
OK, maybe I'm getting older, but 50 doesn't seem that old to me.
The fields you are interested in are considered growth areas, so you'd been making a great choice by pursuing education in these areas.
A good option for job changers, says Uncommon Clarity's Latham, is to take what you know and build on it. That means a networking job in the aviation sector would be a natural for you when you finish school.
If you can go to school at night or take online classes to expedite the process, that's an option, but the key is looking at what you can do starting today to change your career.
"There are more questions to ask about your career than just 'Do I keep working here, or do I quit?'" Latham says.
I'm not naïve here. I know there can definitely be age discrimination in the workplace, but most hiring managers are looking for the most competent candidates, bottom line.
Seriously folks, when are we going to stop letting our advancing years paralyze us?
Eve Tahmincioglu writes the weekly "Your Career" column for msnbc.com and chronicles workplace issues in her blog, CareerDiva.net.
For more information on opportunities with DISCOVER STAFFING please contact your nearest branch:
North Fulton Area: alpharetta@discoverstaffing.com
Gwinnett Area: gwinnett@discoverstaffing.com
Why Doesn't a Company Call Back as Promised?
Correspondence from readers including am I too old to start a new career?
By Eve Tahmincioglu, MSNBC contributor
The questions I've been getting from readers lately have a lot to do with workers' perceptions of themselves, and how the job market is supposed to work.
Well, many of those perceptions are often wrong.
Some of you think you're too old to change careers. Others are worried that getting a job is all about having the perfect look. And still others think companies should have some set structure when hiring.
Well, time for a little "Your Career" reality check.
Here are some of your questions:
I began my job search last summer. As a recent graduate, I went to a college fair in February figuring it was my greatest hope. I talked to about 20 different companies and submitted my resume. Many of the companies that had indicated open positions didn't have any. There were about five still with hope. Of these, I have only had contact with two. One of them I spoke to verbally. The person I spoke to asked me to call back in two weeks if I hadn't heard anything from them. I did, and I haven't heard back.
What I am most frustrated with is the fact that they promised a certain time and failed to meet it. Why do companies make timeline promises and then fail to even keep the candidates in the loop? Is there a guideline as to when and how often candidates can follow up?
-- L.B., St. Louis, Mo.
If only there were some hiring playbook that all job seekers could get a copy of. IT DOES NOT EXIST, especially in this economic environment.
The hiring managers I talk to don't know what they are doing from one day to the next, and many are even wondering if their own jobs are secure. They are inundated with resumes and are walking a tightrope of needing to hire more workers but not having the money to do so.
You should follow up with e-mails and phone calls, but try to think logically about what's acceptable. Try not to become a pest.
Stop worrying about how they do what they do and concentrate on your job search. Are you choosing the right companies to apply to? Do you need more experience or extra training to make you stand out?
I was recently laid off from a job as an engineer due to a downturn in the electronics industry. I am around 50 with excellent career credentials and a passion for my work. My problem is that I broke two front teeth, which will need dentures to correct. I do need to be careful about speaking, as the missing teeth affect my speech mildly when I don't concentrate. I had the dental work scheduled, but the layoff came just before I was to get the work done. Now, I don't feel that I have the financial resources to pay for the dental work until I am working again. What can I do to minimize this fault?
-- C.T., Binghamton, N.Y.
Trying to hide the broken teeth and not treating them could end up doing more harm than good. If the teeth are broken on the gum line, you could end up with an infection, warns Carol A. Wooden, an Atlanta-based dentist and spokesperson for the Academy of General Dentistry.
Many dentists realize the economic hardships today, says Wooden, so you should contact your dentist and discuss working out a payment plan or trying some less expensive, temporary alternative.
Also, dental schools often offer low-cost treatment since dental students are providing the care, she adds. But it can take a while to get an appointment.
Another option is a dental clinic in your area, she says. The best way to find those is by contacting your state dental association or society.
If a quick solution doesn't materialize, you need to be confident when you go into an interview despite the broken teeth because hiring managers will pick up on your self-consciousness.
"The first sale is to sell yourself, if you really believe in yourself," says Ann Latham, president of consulting firm Uncommon Clarity Inc. "A lot of people have permanent defects worse than that. Don't be preoccupied with it."
You can bring up the teeth issue during the interview, she adds, but only if an opportunity arises. Don't force it.
My daughter graduated last spring with a B.S. in anthropology/archaeology from the University of New Mexico. She has recently moved back in with me and has not been able to find any job in her field, even though she applies online almost every day on archaeology job sites or USAJobs.
-- Susan Lachica, Phoenix, Ariz.
When your daughter applies for a job online it's like sending your resume into a big black hole. She needs to start networking, networking, networking.
She should connect with alumni at her school, talk to classmates and join groups in the industry online. In this economy, having an "in" is key with any job.
"Just having a BS in anthropology/archaeology isn't enough," says Joel Irish, a professor of anthropology at University of Alaska Fairbanks.
He offers some more targeted advice:
If she was trained in archaeological field methods while at school, "then it's harder to understand why she can't get hired. There are numerous Cultural Resource Management companies all over New Mexico, Arizona, and other southwest locations that are always hiring people to do fieldwork. However, she should also be aware that she may not get a year-round job, but rather be hired on a job-to-job basis."
She may also want to pursue a master's degree in archaeology if she's looking for a full-time supervisory job and does not want to be just a field worker, he adds.
I just turned 46, and for the past 17 years I've been a flight attendant for one of the United States legacy carriers. As you know, my job has changed very dramatically in the past 5 years, especially when it comes to job security and my paychecks.
I've been interested in the fields of network administration, network security and computer forensics. However, due to the years wasted as a flight attendant, I now see that my age might be an issue if I decide to pursue a change of careers. Of course, training will take two to four years, although I would easily be able to afford the financial commitment for the formal IT education.
I am very unsure as to the possibility of finding a job opportunity so close to the age of 50. Do you think it would be impossible to find another job at that point?
-- Lucia Bruce, Port Saint Lucie, Fla.
OK, maybe I'm getting older, but 50 doesn't seem that old to me.
The fields you are interested in are considered growth areas, so you'd been making a great choice by pursuing education in these areas.
A good option for job changers, says Uncommon Clarity's Latham, is to take what you know and build on it. That means a networking job in the aviation sector would be a natural for you when you finish school.
If you can go to school at night or take online classes to expedite the process, that's an option, but the key is looking at what you can do starting today to change your career.
"There are more questions to ask about your career than just 'Do I keep working here, or do I quit?'" Latham says.
I'm not naïve here. I know there can definitely be age discrimination in the workplace, but most hiring managers are looking for the most competent candidates, bottom line.
Seriously folks, when are we going to stop letting our advancing years paralyze us?
Eve Tahmincioglu writes the weekly "Your Career" column for msnbc.com and chronicles workplace issues in her blog, CareerDiva.net.
For more information on opportunities with DISCOVER STAFFING please contact your nearest branch:
North Fulton Area: alpharetta@discoverstaffing.com
Gwinnett Area: gwinnett@discoverstaffing.com
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Unadvertised Jobs and how to find them
Yahoo! Finace has this great article on how to tap into jobs that aren't being advertised.
Tapping into the network of unadvertised job openings
Jessica Dickler, CNNMoney.com staff writer
Can't seem to find a job? Maybe you're just not looking in the right places.
Because of the overwhelming number of job seekers ready to pounce on new openings, employers often bypass the big online job boards and even placement agencies, and try to fill job openings directly.
Over 80% of today's jobs aren't advertised, according to Howard Poplinger, owner of human-resource company Epic Development and Evaluation.
Companies are relying more heavily on their current employee networks, or on local or specialized job pools, to avoid the flood of unqualified candidates that comes with high unemployment.
"Businesses go to employees first and ask if they know anybody," Poplinger said. That way, managers don't have to go through the time-consuming process of placing an ad and sorting through applicants, he explained.
With nearly 14 million people unemployed, there are more than five job seekers per opening, according to the Labor Department's most recent data.
"Employers are definitely leaning on their employee population to get referrals for people that their employees trust," said Kathy Robinson, the founder of TurningPoint, a career consulting firm in greater Boston. "Otherwise they have to screen thousands of applicants."
According to Robinson, open positions may eventually make it onto big job sites, but only after employers reach out to their employees or a select group of recruiters first.
"The first couple of weeks is the quiet period, which is mostly word of mouth," she explained.
For example, one company recently reached out to Robinson, looking for qualified candidates to fill an opening for a human resources associate, which was neither posted on the company's Web site nor listed on any job boards.
When employers do advertise, they are much more selective in where they post by utilizing smaller, free sites that are unique to a skill set or a specific market, according to Tig Gilliam, CEO of Adecco Group North America, a unit of the world's largest employment staffing firm.
Small or mid-sized business owners, in particular, generally have more luck finding a qualified resource through a site specific to engineers in Pittsburgh, for example, rather than a major job board that caters to all types of job seekers nationwide.
"Big job boards are of limited help for them because so many of the users aren't in the area they are recruiting," he said.
Uncovering hidden jobs
Gilliam recommends that job seekers expand their search tools and reduce their dependency on the major job sites that have become so popular over the last decade.
Remember the help wanted ads in your local paper? Gilliam suggests adding them to your search repertoire, in addition to smaller online job boards that specialize in a certain skill set, community or region.
A Google search can usually bring up any job boards specific to your home town. More targeted industry listings can be found on the Web sites for professional associations and societies, such as the Software Contractors' Guild or the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.
Even the local listings on Craigslist can be an asset for some job seekers.
Vanchinathan Chandrasekaran found his new job on a Florida Craigslist site.
When Chandrasekaran, 25, was looking for a job he said the response rate from Craigslist far exceeded that from the more popular job search sites.
"Though the companies were small, I was happy that someone was looking into my résumé," he said.
Soon, Chandrasekaran found a position as a software developer with a firm in Boca Raton through a Craigslist ad and started his new job in January.
According to career experts, there are also ways to tap into a company's network to find out about openings, even if the positions are never advertised publicly.
Robinson suggests that job seekers "dig deeper when thinking of connections" at choice companies.
Joining local networking groups for your profession or LinkedIn may uncover a connection to an employee at the company -- such as sharing the same alma mater -- which could be the foot in the door you need, she said.
Joining a company's community online, through sites like Facebook and Twitter may also provide access to openings before the general public.
Without an "in" at the employer of choice, job seekers can still gain an advantage by contacting the company directly, even if there are no open positions posted.
When it comes to finding out about jobs that are unadvertised, it often boils down to "knocking on doors," Poplinger said. Have you found a job recently? We want to hear from you. Send us an email and attach a photo. Tell us where you got hired and how you landed the job and you could be profiled in an upcoming story on CNNMoney.com. For the CNNMoney.com Comment Policy, click here.
Tapping into the network of unadvertised job openings
Jessica Dickler, CNNMoney.com staff writer
Can't seem to find a job? Maybe you're just not looking in the right places.
Because of the overwhelming number of job seekers ready to pounce on new openings, employers often bypass the big online job boards and even placement agencies, and try to fill job openings directly.
Over 80% of today's jobs aren't advertised, according to Howard Poplinger, owner of human-resource company Epic Development and Evaluation.
Companies are relying more heavily on their current employee networks, or on local or specialized job pools, to avoid the flood of unqualified candidates that comes with high unemployment.
"Businesses go to employees first and ask if they know anybody," Poplinger said. That way, managers don't have to go through the time-consuming process of placing an ad and sorting through applicants, he explained.
With nearly 14 million people unemployed, there are more than five job seekers per opening, according to the Labor Department's most recent data.
"Employers are definitely leaning on their employee population to get referrals for people that their employees trust," said Kathy Robinson, the founder of TurningPoint, a career consulting firm in greater Boston. "Otherwise they have to screen thousands of applicants."
According to Robinson, open positions may eventually make it onto big job sites, but only after employers reach out to their employees or a select group of recruiters first.
"The first couple of weeks is the quiet period, which is mostly word of mouth," she explained.
For example, one company recently reached out to Robinson, looking for qualified candidates to fill an opening for a human resources associate, which was neither posted on the company's Web site nor listed on any job boards.
When employers do advertise, they are much more selective in where they post by utilizing smaller, free sites that are unique to a skill set or a specific market, according to Tig Gilliam, CEO of Adecco Group North America, a unit of the world's largest employment staffing firm.
Small or mid-sized business owners, in particular, generally have more luck finding a qualified resource through a site specific to engineers in Pittsburgh, for example, rather than a major job board that caters to all types of job seekers nationwide.
"Big job boards are of limited help for them because so many of the users aren't in the area they are recruiting," he said.
Uncovering hidden jobs
Gilliam recommends that job seekers expand their search tools and reduce their dependency on the major job sites that have become so popular over the last decade.
Remember the help wanted ads in your local paper? Gilliam suggests adding them to your search repertoire, in addition to smaller online job boards that specialize in a certain skill set, community or region.
A Google search can usually bring up any job boards specific to your home town. More targeted industry listings can be found on the Web sites for professional associations and societies, such as the Software Contractors' Guild or the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.
Even the local listings on Craigslist can be an asset for some job seekers.
Vanchinathan Chandrasekaran found his new job on a Florida Craigslist site.
When Chandrasekaran, 25, was looking for a job he said the response rate from Craigslist far exceeded that from the more popular job search sites.
"Though the companies were small, I was happy that someone was looking into my résumé," he said.
Soon, Chandrasekaran found a position as a software developer with a firm in Boca Raton through a Craigslist ad and started his new job in January.
According to career experts, there are also ways to tap into a company's network to find out about openings, even if the positions are never advertised publicly.
Robinson suggests that job seekers "dig deeper when thinking of connections" at choice companies.
Joining local networking groups for your profession or LinkedIn may uncover a connection to an employee at the company -- such as sharing the same alma mater -- which could be the foot in the door you need, she said.
Joining a company's community online, through sites like Facebook and Twitter may also provide access to openings before the general public.
Without an "in" at the employer of choice, job seekers can still gain an advantage by contacting the company directly, even if there are no open positions posted.
When it comes to finding out about jobs that are unadvertised, it often boils down to "knocking on doors," Poplinger said. Have you found a job recently? We want to hear from you. Send us an email and attach a photo. Tell us where you got hired and how you landed the job and you could be profiled in an upcoming story on CNNMoney.com. For the CNNMoney.com Comment Policy, click here.
Executive Administrative Assistant
DISCOVER STAFFING is currently seeking qualified candidates for an Executive Assistant position in Alpharetta. Must have 5+ years experience supporting an outgoing, high energy executive. Must have a proactive personality, a can do attitude, be able to multi task and be detail oriented. Will be organizing the calendar, setting appointments, coordinating meetings and conference calls, making travel arrangements. Will be doing presentations and reports and must have advanced proficiency in MS Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Outlook. $40,000 to $50,000 annual salary. Must have a college degree. Must be local to the Alpharetta area and have reliable transportation.
Please send your resume to laura@discoverstaffing.com for consideration.
Please send your resume to laura@discoverstaffing.com for consideration.
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