Tips from the experts – How to win as a candidate!
Are you on the hunt for a new role? Whether you are just now starting to look around, or have been searching for a while, our team of experts have some great tips to help you succeed. Check out what they love about their roles, along with their recommendations to WIN as a candidate!
Kaylee, Talent Lead
Q1: What do you love about your role as Talent Lead?
A: I truly love the people that I get to connect with on a daily basis. Whether it’s a candidate or one of our clients, the relationships that I have developed along the way are invaluable.
Q2: What are the best tips you can give candidates based on your experience?
A: No matter who you are having a conversation with during the interview process, don’t be afraid to take a breath and collect your thoughts. People often feel like they need to fill the silence, but it can take you away from your original thought. Really listen to what the interviewer is asking and respond with clear and concise answers.
Q3: Can you share a favorite success story? What made it so memorable?
A: Yes! I had a candidate who was interviewing for a mid-level position. The company loved his background so much that they were entertaining Director level. They needed approval through HR, however, so the process took much longer than anticipated. Nevertheless, the candidate was patient and ended up getting a really great offer that he accepted. He was looking for a growth opportunity, and he got it before he even started the role!
Jenny, Talent Lead
Q1: What do you love about your role as Talent Lead?
A: Helping people! The application process can be so intimidating, and I enjoy the opportunity to partner with a candidate throughout the process. It’s a privilege to be a sounding board and a cheerleader for people applying and interviewing. I get to give individuals tips and tricks to help them feel at ease and confident going into each interview. I help them break down the process and remove anxiety about interviewing.
Q2: What is something about recruiters you wish candidates understood?
A: The recruiter is your advocate (or should be). Do not go around the “chain of command” to the company for answers, as this shows you cannot follow directions. I’ve seen it happen and the results are unfortunate. We work with our clients and handle all the activities to help in the process, so when candidates bypass us, the client questions what the individual would be like as an employee. We’re here for you!
Q3: How should a candidate answer the compensation question?
A: Be honest and confident about your salary requirements—represent yourself accurately. It’s ok to ask for the role’s going market salary based on your skills. Don’t base your salary on what you were making because that may not align with what’s happening now. Most importantly, don’t give a number and then immediately follow up with “but it’s negotiable.” Finally, don’t give a number, receive an offer, then try to negotiate.
Nicole, Talent Scout
Q1: What do you love about your role as a Talent Scout?
A: I have a passion for recognizing and cultivating the potential in others and enjoy discovering the unique qualities of each person. I love connecting the dots between what our clients need and a candidate’s dream job!
Q2: What advice would you give prospective candidates out there that want to be found?
A: It’s all about keywords! LinkedIn is a very powerful tool for both job seekers and recruiters, so use it to your advantage by making your brand clear and concise on your profile page. Your page should contain job specific keywords all throughout your profile, from the About section, all the way down to the Skills section. Review job postings you are interested in for inspiration, and notice what keywords they are using. Add the relevant ones to your profile!
For additional tips on your job search, or to learn more about our team, visit us here.
