Tag Archives: IT recruiting firms

IT Recruiters Should Borrow and Share Ideas

IT recruiting firms have been encouraged to be creative, unique, and think outside the box.  What happens when technical recruiting agencies run out of ideas?  How can they take a thought from someone else  and make it one of their own?  Here are some tips for technical recruiters and hiring managers to gain inspiration from others, while improving their own work ethic.

Build On an Idea

There is always room for improvement at IT staffing firms, which is why IT recruiters should take the opportunity to build upon others’ accomplishments.  If certain IT headhunters have a technique, ask for suggestions and helpful tips to improve output.  A technical recruiter may be able to add to the process or make changes that are even more beneficial.  Avoid over complicating procedures.  Just tweak the areas of weakness one step at a time.

Apply to Different Situations

Borrow ideas and apply them to personal circumstances.  If an idea is working for filling IT jobs or sifting through resumes, try implementing the plan with other tasks.  Trial and error is an excellent way to see if different processes work in multiple situations.  Do not be afraid to make mistakes and be open to suggestions.  The best way to learn from change is taking the risk with a test run and handling the consequences.

Give Credit

If a recruiter comes across a great idea, give props to the owner.  The more someone is praised for their thoughts, the more likely they will be to contribute in the future.  Stealing ideas and claiming ownership will cause others to be defensive and unwilling to share.  Be open and communicate with feedback and reviews.  Output will improve oneself, as well as helping IT recruiting companies to thrive from internal suggestions and accomplishments!

Keep It Simple at IT Recruiting Firms

An IT recruiter is assigned a project and he immediately begins planning.  After creating a plan, he realizes there may be a better way to implement the steps and scratches his initial idea.  He develops a new method, which includes different steps, but also checks and balances along the way and incorporates other IT headhunters into his work.  Before he knows it, he has overcomplicated the whole procedure when in reality he just needs to keep things simple.

To some, the idea of simplicity is boring or too easy and additional steps need to be included to feel a challenge.  Often, these supplementary steps are where mistakes are made, which may make the project more cumbersome than necessary.  Rather than over complicating tasks, here are some reasons to keep some routine tasks as simple as possible.

Less Stress

Why add extra work where it isn’t needed if it produces the same outcome?  Stressing over trivial details can make IT recruiters irritable and difficult to work with.  They may also overstep their boundaries, causing others to become frustrated with them as well.  Rather than taking on unnecessary work, try the simple route and keep it cool.

Less Wasted Time

Focusing on irrelevant details and creating new steps takes time and attention that could be used in other areas.  Rather than wasting effort on fixing something that does not require change, maintain a routine.  By perfecting the required steps, IT staffing agencies will save time to focus on other projects, such as editing resumes that may require more work.  Also, creating new ways to complete projects is a form of procrastination.  Stop procrastinating by taking the initial step!

Less Mistakes

The simplest procedure is sure to highlight any outliers or mistakes.  The more convoluted a plan is, the more likely there will be errors or failure to meet deadlines.  Keep the process smooth and avoid having multiple people handling the project.  Let others become information technology experts in certain areas to keep things moving.

While some change is beneficial at IT staffing firms, it is not always necessary and can actually hinder productivity.  Before technical recruiters implement new procedures, they should have a trial run first.  Sometimes the simplest ideas are the best ideas.

Incorporating Skype into IT Job Interviews: Candidates

Phone screens are quite common during interview rounds as hiring managers select final candidates for IT job opportunities.  With new information technology, IT recruiting firms may even vamp up their interview procedure with an innovative type of screening known as the Skype screen.  If you are a prospective candidate, read on for information and tips to make the most out of a Skype screening.

Check Technology

Prior to the interview, check your audio equipment and microphone.  Though most laptops come with standard webcam features, you may want to invest in newer equipment so your IT staffing interview runs as smoothly as possible.  Check your network connection for a clear signal and send all attachments to technical recruiters prior to the interview.  Have the attachments and your resume open and ready at the start of the Skype call for quick access.

Dress the Part

Just because the interview is in your home, candidates should not become too comfortable.  Opt for an entire suit rather than a dressy shirt and casual pants while maintaining a business attitude.  Use a professional Skype handle versus personal accounts.  Remember to smile and have natural facial expressions during the conversation with IT recruiters.  Also, the camera is where you will be making eye contact, so do not become distracted by staring at yourself while speaking or watching your IT recruiting audience.

Beware of distractions

Interviewing in the privacy of your own home is a luxury, but remember to keep it a formal interview.  Ask family members and roommates for privacy while keeping pets out of the picture.  Use a blank wall or cleared space for your background.  IT headhunters will find it hard to believe you are organized if they spy a cluttered background or mess!

One of the best reasons to conduct a Skype interview is to record and review it after.  Take notes on areas of strength and room for improvement.  The Skype interview may help candidates of technical recruiting firms better communication skills as you become more comfortable with the experience!

Protect Passwords at IT Recruiting Companies

The computer prompts an IT recruiter to change his password after thirty days, but he uses the same password for all logins out of convenience.  Annoyed, the technical recruiter looks to his desk for support and spots his stapler.  No one will ever guess stapler as his password.  The IT headhunter assumes he is safe, but is he really?

First Mistake- Overused

A common first mistake of IT recruiters is using the same password for all logins because once it is cracked they are vulnerable to any attack.  It might be tedious to remember multiple passwords, but if technical recruiters are ever hacked they will be thankful later.  Also, be sure to update passwords regularly to avoid any potential threats.

Second Mistake- Simplicity

Often IT staffing agencies choose passwords that are simple or may feel they are clever by adding a one digit number.  Hackers can create programs that run through all the words in the dictionary regardless of language, eventually adding numbers to create a match.  An obscure word or object to IT recruiting firms may have no meaning, but it may also cost them their privacy.  Try purposely misspelling words or substitute characters for a’s and E’s with @ and 3.

Third Mistake- Length

Stapler is only six characters long.  Add length and use characters to passwords by creating an acronym or abbreviation out of a sentence, such as I have a stapler becomes 1_h_@_sT@pl3R!.  If uncertain of how strong the password is, check its strength using Microsoft’s password checker.

Most Important- Keep It Private

Never share passwords.  It might be easy to share passwords with friends, family, and coworkers, but avoid doing so.  If IT headhunters must share their password, immediately change it after.  They might feel paranoid or overly obsessive, but they will not let a security breech slip through the cracks.  Recruiters can trust their friends, but what if their friends’ information is hacked?  The recruiters may be next.

Unfortunately, there is no direct approach to combat hackers from desktops, but thankfully there are ways to put a stop to their harm by protecting ourselves!

IT Recruiting Firms Nix Monday Morning Blues

Good bye, weekend.  Hello, Monday morning.  If you are like most IT recruiters, you dread the inevitable return to work after a relaxing, or perhaps chaotic, break from IT staffing agencies.  How can you avoid the pangs or lessen the anxiety of an impending five day work week?  Read on for some tips to ease the transition from weekend to the start of a new week.

Finish Tasks on Friday

Come Friday afternoon, most technical recruiters are in a more casual, relaxed mood.  They may put off projects or wait to call prospective candidates until Monday.  Do not let this be you.  By tiding up your to-do list on Friday and staying organized, you can leave more desirable tasks for Monday morning.  Also, by procrastinating you are leaving yourself vulnerable to falling behind if other projects or open IT jobs arise.  Leave IT staffing companies feeling accomplished rather than apathetic.  You may find you enjoy your weekend even more!

Find Out What You Dread Most

Pinpoint what you are dreading most about your Mondays.  If it is a routine cumbersome project, break it up into sections and try to get a head start on Friday down time.  When you have to meet with IT staffing peers first thing, ask to move the meeting to a later time if possible.  You might be the source of your angst if you are repeatedly hitting the snooze button.  Instead, prepare the night before so you have time to sleep in or go to bed earlier on Sunday night.

Plan Something Fun

If you are still feeling the Monday morning slump at technical recruiting companies, turn Mondays into something to look forward to.  Treat yourself to an overly caffeinated and sugary coffee if that is your niche or splurge on a breakfast sandwich.  Schedule a lunch meeting with your favorite hiring managers or IT contractors.  After work, make plans with friends or take some personal time to recoup.

Avoid cramming all your non-work related tasks into the weekend by spreading them out during the week, leaving the weekend more enjoyable and less rushed.  You will return to the office feeling refreshed rather than overwhelmed!

IT Recruiting: New Year’s Resolution

Another year has passed and the time to reflect upon feats and impending change is looming.  Before technical recruiting companies are too hard on themselves, remember accomplishments and how IT headhunters achieved these goals.  Think of how an AVID Technical Resources recruiter felt after they were successful and the rigorous process to accept and meet these challenges.  New Year’s is the opportunity to make changes in areas of weakness and seek room for improvement at IT recruiting firms.

Set Goals

Most people do not follow through on their New Year’s resolution because they set unrealistic goals.  Rather than choosing a goal an IT recruiter feels should be accomplished, they can choose to tackle a problem they want and can solve.  The headhunters will be better motivated to partake in the process if they truly desire the end result.  Also, neither candidates or technical recruiters should not set themselves up for failure by creating impracticable expectations.

Plan

In order to achieve challenges, a plan must be devised.  IT recruiters can try new approaches and should not be afraid to ask for help.  Instead of trying to tackle a large target, start with smaller steps and, as the recruiter progresses, he can create new goals.  Be open and ready for challenges along the way and maintain a focus to stay committed during both good and bad times.  The small problems will prepare a recruiter for larger ones as they arise and the accomplishments will motivate him to achieve consistently.

Take Personal Time

IT staffing firms may have workaholics and that is where they need to improve.  Consider taking time to put work aside and enjoy personal time with friends, family, or, simply, by themselves.  Find balance and reduce stress levels by leaving work in the IT staffing office and focusing on personal needs.  Recruiters may find they are more relaxed and actually perform better on the clock.

One should not feel pressured to devise a New Year’s resolution considering they have all year to make a change, but it is never too late to start!

Impatient IT Recruiters Opt for a Change

When things are not done according to the standards or timely manner of a certain IT recruiter, does he become upset and angry?  When this technical recruiter seem to be constantly troubled with stress and anxiety of deadlines and projects, it has a contagious effect that permeates through the IT recruiting company, making others irritable and frustrated, too.  If you happen to be among the impatient IT headhunters of the IT staffing industry, here are some tips to become more tolerant.

Why are you upset?

The first step to becoming patient is identifying the source of what is causing distress.  Technical recruiters can have unrealistic expectations of themselves and others.  Often, people become impatient with issues that are beyond their control or simply need to learn to manage their moods and how to work with others.  When you find the cause to your angst, you can begin the process of patience.

Relax

If feeling anxious, try to relax and reevaluate the situation while focusing on what matters.  Chances are the issue is not nearly as important as it seems.  Before making decisions, prepare what you will say and your actions as they are bound to affect others within IT recruiting firms.  You will build better relationships and be less likely to regret a snide comment or attitude if you give yourself time to plan.  You will also produce better results by making more favorable choices, leaving you in a less stressed, more satisfied mood.

Learning Experience

Becoming more patient has a learning curve and takes time.  Start by nixing grudges and work civilly by making situations more positive and optimistic.  Learn from others and share your experiences and tips so people will also become more patient with you.  If you find you are reverting to your old ways, stop and go for a walk or take a break and return when you are ready.

Patience is not something learned over night, it takes time.  With each step, you become closer to a happier, healthier you—and candidates, coworkers, and hiring managers will appreciate it!       

Technical Recruiters: Best IT Staffing Snacks

With Halloween this past week, it might be tempting to hit up the after holiday sales and stock up on candy.  Maybe IT recruiters are wiser and dip into their child’s stash.  Before deciding to reach for a candy bar or visit the office vending machines of technical recruiting firms, stop.  Here are some healthy snack alternatives to boost energy and treat oneself while avoiding potential guilt.

Sweet Tooth?

Sugary fruit flavored treats and chocolate seem to be a staple for snacking…that is if you are a child.  As an adult, a technical recruiter should be educated on nutritional values and make healthy decisions.  If an IT recruiter craves chocolate, be sure it is dark chocolate.  If you still cannot shake a sugar craving, split a candy bar with another recruiter or candidate at your IT staffing company.

Looking for something fruity?  Try canned fruit packed in water, not syrup, which can be easily stored.  If a recruiter prefers fresh fruit, precut it and store it in containers.  Greek yogurt provides an excellent source of protein while maintaining a low fat content, too.  Just be sure your IT staffing firm has a fridge!

Salty?

Pretzels are low in fat and great to nibble on during mid afternoon slumps.  Be aware of your portion size so you do not over eat.  Microwavable light popcorn is conveniently storable and offers significant dietary fiber with a low calorie count to fill you up.  Still not feeling satisfied?  Reach for nuts which pack a powerful protein punch and healthy fat, but be mindful of your consumption.  If you must have chips, choose baked or reduced fat.

An Inbetween?

Cannot decide between sweet or salty snacks?  Try a combination to satisfy both of your desires.  Opt for trail mix that has mixed nuts as well as chocolate candies or yogurt covered raisins.  Dark chocolate covered pretzels may also do the trick.  Peanut butter with crackers or an apple is an easy and handy small snack, too.

Choosing convenience over healthy snacks is bound to take a toll on your overall well-being.  Pre-pack your snacks to maintain portions and save money.  Keep these practical snacks on hand at IT recruiting firms to fight cravings and hold you over through the afternoon!

IT Recruiting: What Does Your Handwriting Say About You?

Technical recruiters typically take notes during phone conversations with prospective candidates and hiring managers.  The writing may be scribbles with some mark ups such as doodles on the margin or perfectly neat and aligned.  Ever wonder what the penmanship of IT recruiters says about their personality or mood?  Continue reading for some insight on everyday calligraphy.

Slant

Take note of the degree in slant for handwriting.  If it is leaning to the right, the IT recruiter may be more of a social butterfly and enjoy working with others.  When writing slants more to the left, the technical recruiter typically prefers working alone, focuses on attention to detail, and does not appreciate others trying to trump him with authority.  When recruiters of IT staffing companies have penmanship that seems to have no slant, they may be more rational decision makers and tend to let their emotions guide them.

Size

When handwriting is large it means technical recruiting companies have confidence coupled with outgoing personalities… think John Hancock, they want to be noticed!  If penmanship is small, recruiters prefer to be focused or working in the background and may also be shy and thoughtful.  Those with average sized handwriting are considered easy going and well adjusted to different situations within the IT staffing industry.

Loops

Scrutinize loops if the handwriting is in cursive.  If loops tend to be closed, consider one’s mood.  Are they feeling agitated or easily annoyed?  Closed loops signify that one is unconvinced and discouraged while wider loops indicate an adventurous personality and expression of oneself.

Other Things to Think About…

Is the penmanship half cursive half print?  Some believe these may be the most intelligent workers of IT recruiting firms because the brain is working faster than the hand in these instances.  If words are rounder, this person may be a people pleaser and avoid confrontation.  Pointier letters indicate one is focused on his own wants and needs at the technical recruiting firm.  People who doodle in the margins tend to be the creative thinkers while those with neat notes have more organized thoughts.

All of these indications are up for debate, but fun to think about.  Next time you are on the phone with a client or taking notes at a presentation, take note of your handwriting.  It may be telling you more than you think!

IT Recruiters Boston Get Around Town

Ask IT recruiting companies that call Boston their home how they get around and you will get a number of answers.  The technical recruiters of AVID Technical Resources weigh in on their choice methods of transportation.  Which do you use?

Driving

Those who do not fear traffic, pedestrians, or the inevitable parallel parking in the streets of the city choose to use their own car.  While courting yourself around might seem more convenient, IT recruiters must remember the costs associated with owning a vehicle such as insurance, gas, and routine maintenance as well as the random perks of parking tickets.  To help lessen the burden of owning a car, an IT recruiter should consider joining a car sharing company such as Zipcar. Those who have flexible spending might enjoy the luxury of letting someone else grab the wheel by taking a cab.

Biking

The more health conscious or eco-friendly technical recruiter rides their bikes to IT recruiting firms or across the city.  The benefit of owning your bike is that you do not need to worry about fueling or traffic.  You will be reducing your carbon foot print, having fun, and taking care of daily exercise in one punch.  If you are uncertain if you want to invest in a bike, try Hubway bikes which are conveniently located throughout the city.  Always review terms and conditions as well as prices when considering your choice.

Public Transportation

If you do not mind crowds and a few delays, the MBTA is the most convenient way for technical recruiting companies to get around town.  The MBTA runs boats, busses, and trains to accommodate Bostonians at affordable prices.  Taking opportunity of these rides is not only good on your wallet, but it also helps the environment and reduces traffic, too.  There are private companies that even offer services to distant towns, cities, and other states.

Walking

Sometimes walking is the best solution for IT staffing firms, especially with there are one way streets and parking issues.  The best things about walking are it is a form of exercise and easy for almost anyone.  Next time you have an IT job interview, check to see if it is in walking distance so you can enjoy the weather and beat the traffic.

Boston may seem like a tricky city to get around if you are tourist or new, but once you get the hang of it explore the history and have some fun.