Candidate Tips

Posted by SearchWest on 5 August 2009 | 0 Comments

Tags: Candidates, August 2009

Peter Severinson, of BC Business Magazine (Aug 2009 Issue), outlines some key tips for candidates with the help of some of Vancouver's Recruiters.

Know Thyself
Recruiters aren't career counsellors. So before contacting one, find out what you're good at and what you want to do. Read up on the sectors you're interested in. Find out who the leaders are and what they need in today's market.

The Right Resume
Sometimes a CEO gig begins the same way as your first stint at Starbucks: a solid resume in the right hands. A recruiting firm's online resume database is a primary research tool for recruiters. They are not black holes.
A good resume is a list of achievements. Let you victories speak for you. And remember, a recruiter is often scanning resumes for skills and experiences matching their clients' needs. If you've done your research, you can guess what those might be.

The Good Word
Personal recommendations often out-punch a slick cover letter. Make a list of everyone you know who can put your name out there and let them know you're looking for something new.

It's Not About You
Top-level recruiters are hired by clients to fill specific positions, and maybe the position for you just isn't there right now. But be patient. Only apply for positions where there's a good chance you'd be a top contender; recruiters don't look kindly on people who apply for every job they see.

*For full article, "Big Game Hunter" by Miguel Stother, visit www.bcbusinessonline.ca or pick up a copy of you BC Business magazine at a news stand near you*