How's That Been Working For You?

The Devil's Advocate, Well Actually, The Devil

While I don't support wasting time and energy on worthless activities, I can't vouch for ever having found the recommendation and research to be of any value. I am definitely 'promiscuous' with recruiters, and not a believer in networking, although I have a fairly high profile in LinkedIn.

Unlike most people that have a job that many people are qualified for, I am a niche contractor, not looking for permanent work. I work in a common language, or a set of tools, that few people specialize in, with a background at major corporations. When someone needs one of my specialties, I'll get calls and emails from 5 different recruiters. My specialization is also why I can never commit to one recruiter; when I need work, they don't have openings, but someone else does. And I have had repeat engagements from different clients, and with different recruiters. They find me jobs, take a percentage of the rate, and if the engagement is long-lasting, they barely have to milk the cow, just take the cream.

For extroverts, and those looking to sell, networking might be wonderful, but I'm nauseous of the promotion of networking. People find me engaging, well spoken, helpful, and I can certainly self-promote, but I'm not that interested in other people: I'm kind of half introvert/extrovert. I enjoy people, but I also enjoy my alone time, with my wife, my reading, my books, and my fitness activities. Most people are extroverts, and likely, most people are not finding much help networking.

My primary focus, has been getting recruiters to see my resume on line. Right or wrong, I think recruiters look at people as a very narrow skillet and they have to fill/exceed the requirements, particularly in bad times. I keep my headline clear and simple. When searching I update my resume daily, or a few times a week. I focus on detailing my technical skills, not exaggerating my experience, or pumping it up with filler.

In truth, it's been a little bit of luck - I have a desired, niche skill set in technology, with a strong background at major financials - as well as being able to capitalize on my niche market.

James Igoe of NY @ Jun 11, 2009 19:27:37 PM

Here's another approach for the job search

Great question! Another question to consider is “Who can help?” Consider using a recruiter in your job search. Recruiters are networked and know which companies are trying to fill positions. They have relationships with the hiring managers and can get you in. A good recruiter will prepare you for the interview. They will also coach you through the process up to your first day on the job.

Choose your recruiter wisely. Working with multiple recruiters is as ineffective as posting you resume on multiple job boards. Spend time with the recruiter to let them know your qualifications and criteria. Once they invest time with you, they will work hard to place you. So just don’t use job boards, use someone whose business is finding jobs. Find a good recruiter.

Carol Stiebel, Northfield Placement of MI @ Jun 11, 2009 12:50:16 PM

Unwelcomed wake-up call?

California, Georgia? Opening responses seem to adopt a hostile eagerness to kill the messenger. You may have touched a raw nerve coast-to-coast, G.L.

Personally, between the day's maudlin reports of economic downturn and public complacence with politics as usual, I'm encouraged to see a little reality testing inquiry - wherever it rears its misunderstood head.

The "cold cup of coffee" approach always gets me thinking that maybe I could be doing something more to improve my lot in life.

I've never heard of LinkUp or JobDig; thanks for the tip!

Alan of IL @ Jun 11, 2009 11:42:14 AM

I've been trying to use Linkup

It doesn't behave very well with my browser (Firefox). I filed a bug report, but haven't seen any improvement so far.

Some of us aren't that good at networking. In fact, just the mention of it makes my stomach turn. It isn't a skill that I normally use in my professional work (engineering). I've always done well wherever I've worked and communicate well with others, but I'm not an extrovert.

I guess I should just give up and become homeless. Thanks for the help.

dogfriend of CA @ Jun 10, 2009 21:06:55 PM