Solutions By Lex

The struggle is real! The disparity between existing skill-sets and the plethora of open jobs on the market is extreme. Most people, even those who possess college degrees, do not have the subject-matter-expertise that many organizations are currently seeking. Or, at least that’s what the primary message is throughout society.

I think a more accurate view is that most people, and their resumes, do not effectively communicate their skill-sets and experience in a way that translates directly into what companies are looking to hire for. There are so many different layouts, lingos, standards and preferences across industries and company cultures, that crafting an efficient resume has become as challenging as the job hunt itself.

On top of that, it seems that almost all recruiting and staffing is being outsourced. This is normally an additional hurdle to get over in the process. However, when dealing with authentic talent management, a true professional helps to decipher the cryptic language of employers needs, while effectively translating what you have to offer into a clear winning pick for employers to roll the dice on.

So, what’s my point? I have three. Point one: DO NOT GO IT ALONE! If you’re just posting your resume on monster.com, simplyhired.com, indeed.com, and other online job boards without a direct point of contact, then you are truly wasting your time and energy. Point two: not just any recruiter will do. You need to vet these recruiters in the same manner that they’re going to vet you for potential employers. Check their background as much as you can. Do they possess any knowledge themselves on the field you’re competing in? What is their placement rate? How long do they typically take to place their job candidates? And so on. Point three: make a genuine connection and build an on-going working relationship with the right recruiter, once you find him or her.

We are alive in some trying times, but, where there’s a will there’s a way. And, where there’s faith, there’s even more in store. Just keep in mind that faith without works is dead (James 2:20), and social media without genuine connection doesn’t allow for eye contact and hand shakes. What does that mean? It means to get up from behind that phone, tablet or computer, and go out and shake some hands while looking folks square in the eyes. That is how you will surely find your next great opportunity.