Tag Archives: IT staffing

Asking For More Challenges in the IT Staffing Industry

It is noon and an IT recruiter has finished his tasks for the day.  What should he do next?  If he finds he’s twiddling his thumbs at work, or is not being challenged, it might be time to ask his manager for more responsibilities.  Some technical recruiters avoid new tasks and duties because they do not want to appear bored or lack work.  Here are some reasons IT headhunters should consider varying their workload.

Initiative

Proactive employees are always looking for ways to improve themselves, as well as the company.  Managers seek out these recruiters, as they are valuable assets to the future of technical staffing agencies.  If you know of an existing issue and have a valid solution, bring it to your manager’s attention.  IT recruiters who share a drive for more work and improvement are usually the ones considered for upward mobility.

Improve Skills

Adding more responsibility will increase your value as you are exposed to new departments and skills within technical recruiting agencies.  Learning new traits and multitasking can help improve your existing tasks while also embellishing your resume.  Before your take on new roles, discuss your strengths and weaknesses with your manager for a smooth transition.

Build Network

Working in different areas allows you to expand your network as you mingle with levels of IT recruiting management.  Use these relationships to help identify a potential career path and connect on LinkedIn. If appropriate, ask for a recommendation.

Checks and Balances

Find out how much free time you have to work with.  Test out the new tasks and see if you actually like it.   Before you consider taking on new duties, evaluate your current position.  Are you finishing projects ahead of schedule or just meeting deadlines?  Is there room for improvement in your work?  If so, address these issues before you pile up your plate.

Energy Drinks—The New Coffee of the IT Recruiting Industry?

Coffee has been brewed since the mid 1400’s, providing a natural source of caffeine and an extra push when needed for IT recruiters. For years, technical staffing firms looked forward to their morning or afternoon brew, perfected with their choice fixings, and distinct flavor. Now with innovative caffeine products such as energy drinks and shots, is coffee’s prevalence in the caffeine market threatened? When technical recruiters need a boost, which should they turn to, coffee or energy drinks? The answer is it depends…

Caffeine

Both coffee and energy drinks provide different levels of caffeine. The caffeine content of coffee is in the hands of the IT staffing representatives. Coffee can have its caffeine content diluted, or you can choose to drink decaffeinated coffee. Likewise, the coffee can be double brewed for an extra kick, or you  can simply order a larger size.

Energy drinks come with designated caffeine content, leaving technical recruiting reps to choose if they would like to drink the entire can or opt for a drink with more or less caffeine. The drinks also range in size and amount of provided caffeine, so there are options!

Price

Coffee is more affordable when you consider price and where you purchase it. Home brewed coffee is significantly cheaper than paying a visit to a coffee shop daily, with shop prices typically ranging from $1.50 to $5.00. Energy drinks are similarly priced to coffee shops, typically $2.00 to $5.00, depending on size and caffeine content. If you are money conscious, opt to brew your own coffee in the IT recruitment office and save!

Availability

You usually need to go to a store to buy an energy drink or buy in bulk to have readily available (and get a better deal). Luckily, for Boston IT recruiting firms, there are stores and coffee shops on nearly every corner. You can have coffee stored in your cabinet for whenever you need it, too.

Health

Coffee is healthier than energy drinks when consumed without all the bells and whistles. Black coffee is natural and provides antioxidants and fiber. Energy drinks lack vitamins and are typically made with copious amounts of sugar or artificial sweeteners. If IT headhunters cannot handle the taste of black coffee, they can opt for skim milk rather than cream and flavored coffee to ward off additional sugar.

Alternative Energy Sources

Coffee and energy drinks are not the only way to boost your mood and work level. Never use caffeine to subsidize sleep or suppress appetite.  Productivity levels will crash! Naturally increase your energy by going for a walk or snacking on healthy fruit and vegetables. Be sure to exercise regularly and get enough sleep each night to maintain good focus and improve your attitude.

Eating at Your Desk in the IT Recruiting Industry

Boston Technical recruiters often find themselves working through lunch and eating at their desks quite frequently.  As IT recruiters, your hard work will be recognized.  However, do not sacrifice your health to go above and beyond.  Here are some reasons you should get up and out for your lunch instead of hiding in your cube.

Clearer Mind

When an IT staffing representative works nine hours straight, there is no time for the brain to recover.  Eventually you will find yourself burnt out and you will not even remember what you ate or what you may have discussed with a client.  If you have the opportunity to walk even for ten to fifteen minutes a day, preferably outside, do so.  You will return with a clearer mind and ready to focus on new goals.

Sanitation

Your desk is actually dirtier than it appears.  Think of how often you actually clean your desk.  Technical recruiters are constantly touching the phone, keyboard, and mouse… then reaching for their sandwiches.  Is the extra hour you’re putting in today worth the sick day you may have to take later?

Poor Habits

You will probably not realize it, but when you are not focused on your meal, you typically end up eating more and ignoring signals that you may be full– or not even hungry at all.  Later, during the day, you will either feel too full and uncomfortable from overeating or hungry from not listening to your body’s signals.  This can affect your work performance.

IT recruiters spend most of their day on the phone, and if they are eating at their desk, there is a strong chance they are snacking between phone calls.  Eating away from your desk will help curb distractions and prevent potential mistakes or messes.

If You Must Dine at Your Desk…

If you must eat at your desk, try to bring a lunch with you.  Home packed meals tend to be healthier and will leave you feeling less sluggish than if you were to order fast food.  When you eat at your desk, take trips to the water cooler or the bathroom to move your muscles.  If another co-worker is eating at their desk as well, ask if you may join them for some company and get your mind off work for a few minutes.

Eating at your desk is unfortunately becoming the norm.  Remember to maintain proper eating etiquette (ie. not chewing in the phone or talking with your mouth full).  And don’t leave crumbs if you decide to join the movement!

Technical Recruiting – The Plot

Prologue

A Boston IT recruiting company is given the task of filling IT jobs for a well established firm.  A technical recruiter begins cruising through Monster.com, CareerBuilder, and LinkedIn.com to find the most qualified candidate and a resume jumps at him.  He immediately pulls the resume and compares the job qualifications to its listed experience.  Success!

The Introduction

IT recruiters makes the initial contact typically through a phone call or email.  He begins by introducing himself, stating the reason he is calling, and listens for cues of interest.  The IT recruiter will explain the position and answer any of the contractor’s questions.  If the candidate is interested in the position and the technical recruiter has verified all the candidate’s skills and experiences, the recruiter will submit the client’s resume for the job opening.

Rising Action

Hypothetically, the applicant is offered an interview.  The IT headhunter calls the candidate to let him know the good news and prepares him for what to expect.  The recruiter might meet with the contractor before the interview to coach him and ease nerves.  After the interview, the IT recruiter will follow up with the applicant to see how the meeting went and address any questions or concerns.

The Climax

A few days pass and the IT recruiter receives word from the company that they would like to bring the candidate on board.  The IT staffing salesperson calls his client to let him know the exciting news.  He extends the offer.  Before the contractor begins his position, the recruiter will typically meet with him to walk him in and make him feel comfortable on his first day.

Falling Action

Technical recruiters will periodically touch base with the contractor to maintain their relationship and ensure everything is going smooth and see if the contractor has any questions.  The two will stay in touch and relay changes, if any.

Resolution

Either the techncial recruiter will continue working with the contractor, or they will go their separate ways due to new job opportunities or life changes.  Ideally, the team will end on good terms and the two will share a connection for future networking– and a new plot begins.

Seeking…a client? Part II

During the Meeting

The Introduction

The opening of the meeting should be about building a relationship.  Always greet your client by name and extend a handshake.  As IT recruiters, you want to establish a rapport before you jump into business, so have your client open up to you and do the same.  Once you feel comfortable, move onto the business side of the meeting.

Getting to Business

Gradually shift to the topic of the meeting, but do not make it completely random.  This segment of the meeting should be entirely about the candidate, so turn on your technical recruiting cues.  Ask what the IT manager’s wants and needs are about this position.  Address any questions and concerns.  If you do not have an answer right away, be sure to write them down to follow up.

Discuss the IT jobs and the prerequisites.  Ensure he or she has all the required experience and skills before you get his heart set on the position.  If the client does not have specific experience or skills, make it known so you do not get his hopes up.  Offer to keep him or her in mind for other openings you may be working on.

The Conclusion

When closing the IT staffing meeting, make sure you have addressed all the key topics, concerns, and details of the position.  Thank the client for his or her time and try to always end a meeting on good terms.  Sincerely extend another handshake, offer your business card, reiterate the value-add that you and your IT recruiting firm can provide, then wish the prospective client well.

Like dating, keep arranging client meetings with different candidates until you have found “the one”. 

Seeking a…Client? Part I

It seems coffee meetings are the go to from catching up with business or friends to first dates and meeting with new IT staffing clients.  At first glance, comparing the IT recruiting business with dating might seem entirely wrong, but when you think about it the processes are pretty similar.  They both involve finding “the one” with all the perfect attributes, right?

The Want Ad

Technical recruiters use job boards to post open positions, listing specific criteria to find their most ideal match for the IT job.  It is a blind way of weeding out candidates without personally offending anyone.   Job listings also provide the luxury of choosing from multiple candidates without having to limit yourself to just one applicant.

Preliminary Screening—The Background Check

You will most likely conduct some investigating prior to a date and the same goes for a client meeting.   As a technical recruiter, you will research a consultant’s prior experiences and check to see if you have any connections through LinkedIn or past companies.  A phone call prior to the face to face meeting may help ease nerves for the IT recruiter and contractor.

Getting Ready

Dress to impress as you prepare for your meeting.  Run through your check list to be sure you have all the right material…resume, job description, notepad for questions.  Note the client’s interests so you have topics for conversation.  Leave early so you allow plenty of time to arrive early or on time in case of traffic.

Looking for tips during the meeting?  Check AVID’s blog for Seeking…a Client? Part II.

Fake It Till You Make It—Poor Advice?

A component of setting goals is having the confidence to achieve them.  A number of people rely on the old saying “fake it till you make it”, but is this proper advice when your goals and responsibilities as an IT recruiter involve others?  You do not want to mislead people into believing you are fully capable of taking on responsibilities when you are not prepared.  Rather than “fake it till you make it”, here is some advice to help guide you to achieving your goals.

Be Honest

When you do not know the appropriate procedures or answer to someone’s question never make up an answer.  If you provide a wrong answer, not only will you embarrass yourself when you have to follow up with the correct advice, you will also lose the trust of the other party.  Some IT staffing representatives fear prospective clients will sever ties when they do not have all the answers, but what clients respect more is someone who takes the time and effort to research their concerns and address them in a timely manner.

Ask Questions, Write Down Answers

Asking questions is strongly encouraged, especially when you are a new hire.  Managers become alarmed when you do not ask questions because it is a sign you are going off your own instinct.  Until you feel comfortable doing things your own way, follow procedure.

Technical recruiters conduct a majority of their work over the phone.  Having a training manual handy will help you when a client asks you an unexpected question on the call.  If you do not have the answer at your finger tips, ask the client if you can put them on hold while you find out the answer for them.  When you ask questions, write down the answer as a guide to help you the next time you encounter this problem.

Follow Up

IT recruiters work with a number of clients, so it is important to not let any clients slip through the cracks.  Nothing is more frustrating than waiting on an unreliable person who never gets back to you.  Maintain your work and always follow up, even if it is just to say hello and see how things are going.

Review

Once you feel you have the hang of things at your IT recruiting agency, ask your supervisor to share a review with you.  This review will reflect your accomplishments and what you need to work on.  You are your own worst critic, let someone else point out your achievements and soon you will make it without having to fake it!

Sink or Swim—Welcome to the World of IT Recruiting

Starting a new IT recruiting role in a different company can be a stressful experience.  From unfamiliar fellow IT recruiters and shared work space to unusual IT staffing business practices and procedures, severe changes can send new technical recruiters running in the opposite direction.  Before you decide to call it quits or look into other IT recruitment positions, here are some suggestions to ease the transition process.

Cut Yourself Some Slack

When you start at a new company, there is a strong chance your expectations of yourself are higher than that of your IT recruiting manager.  Managers understand there is a learning curve with new IT recruiters and encourage that you ask questions when you do not understand or uncertain.   New tasks and responsibilities may seem hard at first, but gradually they will become easier as you learn.

Teamwork

IT recruiting firms may seem more competitive and self-driven in terms of work, but IT staffing agencies thrive off team work.  Building relationships and connections help keep the firm running, so do not be afraid to speak to other coworkers or ask questions.  Remember that your peer IT recruiters have been in your situation before and can provide the best, most helpful advice.

Time Management

When you are feeling overwhelmed with tasks, write out each task in no particular order.  Once you have completed your list, rank each task in order of time sensitivity and priority, then tackle the list.  If you cannot commit enough time to thoroughly finish each task, express this concern.  IT staffing managers would rather hear you cannot commit to something than disappoint them later or let something slip through the cracks.

Keep a planner handy so you know when you will be busy or free for appointments.  If you forget to check your planner or fear you will lose it, set alarms for reminders.

Planning Goals

Setting up goals and creating plans can help you prepare for new IT recruiting tasks or responsibilities.  Maintain a positive attitude and recognize each time you accomplish one of your goals.  These goals are telltale signs that you are learning and progressing with the transition.

It might seem hard to catch on right away with some responsibilities or duties, but do not be afraid to ask questions.  Take notes and refer to them whenever possible.  It is when you do not address your concerns that you will be in over your head…

Taking Breaks in an IT Recruiting Office

You know those IT recruiters who constantly get out of their seat, walk around, chat by the water cooler, surf the web, and get a cup of coffee…basically any excuse not to do their job?  There is a common misconception that the ideal, efficient technical recruiters who rarely takes breaks and continuously plows through projects and phone calls.  Unfortunately, those employees are far and few between.  The reality is that IT recruiters, like any other employee in any other industry, need to take occasional breaks to keep their sanity (especially in the IT staffing industry where people can literally wear you down).  Sometimes it’s even healthy to take a quick break.

Signs of a needed break

Here are just a few examples of when it is time to take a break:

  • Loss of attention span
  • Inability to focus
  • Frustration
  • Frequent errors
  • High stress

Consequences of not taking a break

There is a difference between consistently working and working efficiently.  Technical recruiters Boston tend to work atypical hours to accommodate the needs of their clients.  Ignoring the signs listed above can trigger the IT recruiter to feel burned out and he will eventually start making errors which could potentially affect relationships with clients.  Stress is not just a mental state and can take tolls on emotional and physical well being, too.  Do not sacrifice your health when there is a simple solution to these stress factors.

Break Suggestions

Boston IT staffing firms have the luxury of working in the city.  Leave your desk and go for a walk through a park at lunch, even if it is for just fifteen minutes you will feel refreshed upon your return.  When projects seem long and cumbersome, split it up into segments.  When you finish a section, reward yourself with a short break so when you start up again you have a clearer mind.  If you cannot seem to focus on a certain project, move onto another and return to it later.

You do not have to forgo output to take a break.  Working at a comfortable pace with breaks and no errors is better than working in overdrive and making frequent mistakes along the way!

Ask Not What Your IT Recruiter Can Do for You…

From relationships with hiring managers to all the right tips on formatting your resume and prepping for interviews, it seems technical recruiters have the inside scoop.    IT staffing firms are an excellent resource when you are seeking a new opportunity, but never expect your IT recruiter to limit him or herself to just you.  IT recruiters work with multiple candidates at a time, so expecting them to dedicate all of their time and know every intricate detail about your life is unrealistic.  Here are some tips to improve your relationship with IT recruiters Boston and make his life a little easier.

Meeting in Person

Candidates should always meet with their technical recruiter in person.  Not only will it break the ice, but you will also share a closer bond.  Emotions and tone are lost in plain text and facial expressions are invisible over the phone.   While one person might find humor in sarcasm and wit, another might find it offensive.  Meeting with your IT headhunter will help to define these boundaries.

Being Specific

Just as candidates do not want to be strung along, do not mislead your technical recruiters Boston by showing interest in an IT job that is not the right fit.  If you feel uncomfortable about saying no, this is a sign your relationship needs work.  Be upfront with your IT staffing representative about what exactly you are looking for in a position and what you do not want.  Be mindful that letting IT recruiters MA know what does not work for you opens opportunities for others.

Having Your Time

Communication is crucial to maintaining a solid relationship.   Candidates and IT recruiters should discuss mutually agreeable times to discuss any issues or concerns that may arise.  Both parties should aim to be flexible as recruiters work with multiple candidates and consultants may have hectic schedules.  This time slot eases the frustration of missed phone calls or neglected emails, but be open to meeting outside this time as well.

These are just some tips to help candidates and IT recruiters get to know each other better and understand one another’s needs.  If you still feel disconnected from your recruiter, it might be time to move on.  Do not be afraid to speak to another representative.  If you have a successful relationship, let others know and share the wealth!