At Career Contacts, it is so important to us that our teams believe in the work we do, and how we do it. The best way to represent any brand is to truly believe you align with it, that you are doing meaningful work, and making a real difference!
We invited about newest (and most junior) recruiter to write about her thoughts on how we work here at Career Contacts and are excited to share her thoughts with you on the blog today!
Based on her research on what we do, and our industry as a whole, here are Rheannon’s top 5 reasons to use an employment agency:
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There is no charge to you as a candidate!
Many are misinformed when it comes to how we assist candidates find work in their ideal fields. We are working on behalf of our clients to find them the most qualified applicants, and all costs are the responsibility of that organization. As a candidate, our services to you are of no charge and you will not pay any fees at any time. Whether you have been successfully considered for a position, are new to our agency, or a returning candidate, we will be your free job search resource!
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Be the first to know!
Employment agencies have been fostering successful relationships with their clients since day one. In the case of Career Contacts, that is over 25 years! This not only means we are familiar with our clients company culture and what they are looking for, but we also get the exclusive opportunity to recruit for upcoming positions that they have no yet advertised. Those actively in our database will be those we contact as soon as possible in hopes of matching them with their ideal role.
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We do the work to save you time!
Many candidates are looking to make a change in their employment field, but rarely have the time to dedicate to successfully job hunt. As an employment agency, we save you the immense amount of time customizing your application and cover letter to suit one role after another, and let you focus on your more immediate responsibilities in life. Whatever you may be looking for, it’s our goal to get you there as soon as possible.
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As recruiters, we have a passion for placement!
As recruiters, we know that every individual is capable of doing great work and is deserving of a great workplace; nothing makes us happier than being able to assist in that process for not just one side of the equation, but both! When organizing a recruitment process, we dedicate ourselves to understanding the needs of both our clients and candidates to ensure that we best match those capable of forming a successful long-term relationship. It’s important to us to get to know each candidate in as much depth as possible so that the so we can promote not just your CV, but what makes you the unique individual that you are.
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We have industry expertise!
By using our services, you are putting yourself into a much larger network with various opportunities within several different roles! Career Contacts specifically is a generalist firm, so we work with many positions within many industries, which provides us with added reach, and you with added resources.
Did you know that if you combine all our HR Consultants and Recruiters, you’d hit over 100 years of recruitment and HR experience?
You’re not being considered for just one position; you will be consulted on all positions matching your interests and qualifications that we have available (or know are becoming available). That being said, an employment opportunity is just the first step.
BONUS REASON
As your job search resource, the services we offer can include but are not limited to are:
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Remaining updated and informed on the current job market
We will help you navigate the industry you are interested in and assist you in pursuing a career path that matches all your preferences and requirements. We are constantly updating our files, compiling information and working to find quality employment opportunities. Whatever questions you may have, we will find the answer for you.
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Interview organization and preparation
We will organize the interview process and forward you all the details that you need to know about the interview including the job description, company background, dress code, contact name etc. First interviews are stressful, but we can alleviate most of that by fully preparing you!
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Contract/salary negotiation
As your resource, we will hear your requests and negotiate on neutral terms with a potential employer when necessary. We understand each individual has specific requirements that make a big difference, and we want to advocate for our candidates as well as find a solution that is possible and within budget for our client.
Did you know one of our owners (Natasha) literally wrote the book on this? Check out The HR Insider, how to land your dream job and keep it (which hit #1 on Amazon a few years ago!).
Here at Career Contacts we believe in open, honest and continuous communication. Should you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Anywhere in BC at 604-606-1831, In Squamish 604-898-8236 or Whistler 604-905-7696. We would love to get to know you and assist you in any of your career needs.
You may also find all of our open positions we are currently recruiting for on our website posted to our job board, take a peek!
When you know what your dream job is, but aren’t sure how to get it, we can help. The career you want is the one you have passion for and find enjoyment doing. It will provide you with work/life balance and you’ll enjoy work! This being said, the path to land your dream job doesn’t just happen. Having your ultimate career fall into place will only happen through time and effort with goals, planning and direction.
Here are seven steps to land your dream job:
1. Make Sure It’s Really your Dream Job
As you are starting your job search, take time to build a vision of the career you want. Like a vision board, think big! Know what you want – what gives you purpose, where you see value, want do you want to do? After deciding on your career, speak to people you know and respect in the field. Ask them about their jobs, what they enjoy about their job and their career path. Before doing these interviews, have a set of questions prepared and make notes to be able to refer to in the future. If possible, ask to shadow this person at work, or to volunteer with similar companies.
2. Create a Career Roadmap to Land Your Dream Job
Like all smart executives, to achieve your career goals you must start with a plan. Begin with the end in mind, and imagine where you want your career to lead you. Determine positions (job titles, duties, responsibilities etc.) and check points that you will pass along the way. Your roadmap should outline each step as your career progresses.
Your career path may include internships, entry level positions, or volunteer work as well as continued education or certification to gain skills and experience as your career develops. Getting hands-on experience is imperative. It proves to hiring managers that you’ve experienced — not just read about — everything you need to know for your ultimate gig. It’ll also confirm your career choice to yourself.
Make your career roadmap even more worthwhile by estimating how much time you should spend in each position. Review job descriptions and look for things you can do if you are looking for advancement, promotion or increased salary.
Some goals will be easier to achieve, and some will be harder, but you will be forced to stretch, and that will advance you in your profession.
3. Be the Person You Would Want to Hire and Work Your Way Up
In starting your new career journey, you may not have experience under your belt, so add value by being a “Rockstar” employee. Get to work early each morning, maintain a professional appearance and be positive about your day ahead. Ask questions, read and become involved with your industry. Ask for feedback and take time to learn how to be a better employee. After employee reviews allow time to review and reflect on your Career Goals and Roadmap to ensure that you are headed in the right direction. Doing this will help you develop your skills and become an expert.
4. Grow Your Network
Go to your network for receiving and giving career advice. You can do this through social media, as well as professionally. With LinkedIn I recommend you value the quality of your network over quantity. Start by connecting with people you know and trust; friends, colleagues, teachers and supervisors etc. This will allow you connect personally and start conversations, whether it be to say hello, ask for a job recommendation or for advice.
The next step after building contacts is getting out and meeting with people. This can be done by going to networking events, attending trade shows and industry events, as well as conferences. This also includes meeting contacts face to face (perhaps over coffee or lunch).
5. Partner with an Employment Agency
There are a number of reasons to work with an Employment Agency. Employment agencies can help you land your dream job by:
- Allowing you to access their broad pool of clients and positions they are hiring for
- Being a second set of eyes finding jobs for you
- Providing assistance with interview tips and preparation
- Providing assistance with salary negotiation
- Providing insight to the culture of the company that is hiring
- It is free, there is nothing to lose!
6. Craft your Personal Brand
You have your own story to tell, which includes goals, skills and expertise; this is your identity and value add. In starting to create your personal brand consider the following about yourself:
- Who are you – areas of strengths and expertise, what are you passionate about?
- Decide what you want to be known for – this is your roadmap
- What is your value proposition?
- What industry do you want to work in?
Your Personal Brand is generally one or two sentences, creating a statement of who you are, like a catchphrase with flare. I like to think of it as your elevator pitch.
7. Before an Interview Prepare Creative, Insightful Questions
Although you are the person being interviewed, take the time at the end of the interview to ask questions. It’s important to determine if this job opportunity that will lead to your dream job. When asking questions in a job interview, make sure they are tailored to the job that you are interviewing for. Here are a few examples you can prepare specific to the job you are considering:
- Is there anything about this position that wasn’t advertised that you are looking for?
- What is the most important thing I can do to be successful?
- In this role (at company ABC) how do you evaluate performance?
- What is the key to succeeding in this role?
- Tell me about the team I will be working with?
With these interview questions you will confirm your interest and professionalism.
If you have questions, feel free to email Andrea directly at Andrea@careercontacts.ca or visit our job board for current employment opportunities.
Now, get out there, and land your dream job!
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