June MarketResearchCareers Newsletter

A troubling new trend is emerging among employers: “only currently employed candidates need apply.” For additional information, see this article on CNN.com.

What does this mean?
It means in a tight economy, employers are being incredibly selective with the candidates they interview—and even more so with those they hire.

Why is this happening?
Increasingly employers seem to incorrectly believe that those currently seeking work were let go (e.g., "C" team players) or do not have the comparative skills of professionals who are currently working. And rather than examining the individual situation of each candidate, hiring managers are painting all unemployed candidates with the same brush—often denying the basic opportunity to submit a resume or to speak with Human Resources.

What can I do?
Below are several suggestions to help all MR professionals avoid and perhaps escape this situation.

Tip #1: Keep Your Resume and Online Profiles Updated

At the risk of re-repeating ourselves, it is more important than ever to keep your resume and professional online profiles up to date. Please update your resume on MarketResearchCareers NOW!

Hiring managers and recruiters want to see a progression of skills and experience, and resumes/online profiles are the first place they begin looking. Don’t overlook the importance of keeping decision makers aware of your most recent accomplishments.

It’s vital that your current position be accurate—providing company name, title, and key responsibilities. Also ensure there are no unexplained “time gaps” in your resume—particularly recently. And we encourage all MR professionals to include skills pertaining to traditional and online research methods along with any industry-specific knowledge that is often a prerequisite for landing a job in your chosen area.

Employers are seeking highly qualified candidates who meet all of their criteria. It would be a shame to miss an opportunity by simply omitting a few skills that you already possess.

Tip #2: Consider Contracting/Consulting

If between jobs, consider consulting or contact assignments. Not only will you have the flexibility to select the types of projects to which to apply your talents, it will show potential employers that you have business acumen—essentially running your own company.

It demonstrates the ability to engage potential clients, propose solutions, win the business, and deliver results without a safety net. Beyond these challenges and rewards, there may also be substantial economic and tax advantages that you may want to consider.

Importantly, consulting is a powerful way to earn income, develop and showcase your unique skills, ensure your resume is complete (showing no employment gaps), and demonstrates your current work status: EMPLOYED.

Tip #3: Take Calls from Recruiters

No matter how secure you believe your current position may be, economic challenges do arise. And while we hope all firms can endure such storms, some companies may be forced to make personnel adjustments.

As recruiters are retained by hiring managers (many only looking to hire currently employed candidates), we encourage you to make time to speak with all recruiters who call—even (especially) if you are happy and believe your current position is secure.

Increasingly, recruiters are narrowly targeting candidates based upon specific skills, experience, and geographic location. So, if a recruiter calls, it is highly likely any career opportunity they present may be of great interest to you. And certainly, return all recruiters’ call if they leave you a voicemail.

A brief discussion can build a valuable professional relationship and help you advance your career—either now or in the future.

In today’s climate, it pays to keep all options open.

 

Mike Carroll
800-872-5401
mcarroll@marketresearchcareers.com
www.marketresearchcareers.com