ESS Candidate Newsletter – AUGUST 2023
Columbus, OH – AUGUST 2023
In this month’s, ask the recruiter, we talk about if you should and how to apply for jobs on your own.
Introduction – Aaron Wandtke
Recently Filled Jobs
Ask the Recruiter –“Is it okay to apply for jobs on my own; and how prudent should I be?”
Introduction:
The ongoing discussion of the US inflation rate has recently included more discussion about the unemployment rate. For months, we have been saying with unemployment staying around 3.7%, it’s hard to have a deep recession. At ESS, the one change we have seen is the number of openings has decreased. When you compare the record hiring levels in both 2021 and 2022, we are not surprised to see a decline. In fact, it was expected. The requests we receive from employers now are critical openings they want filled as soon as possible.
This is still a great time to be looking for a new opportunity. More people are “resume ready,” they may not be applying to jobs, but they are willing to listen and apply for jobs through recruiters more so than on their own. Knowing this, if there is anything I can do to help you in your career, please let me know.
Ask the Recruiter – “IS IT OKAY TO APPLY FOR JOBS ON MY OWN; AND IF SO, HOW PRUDENT SHOULD I BE?”
It’s never been easier to apply for a job thanks to technology. In a day you could easily apply for 100 plus jobs if you wanted to. A question we receive frequently is, “should I be doing that?”
The short answer is yes. Utilizing a more comprehensive approach tends to be more rewarding. Too often, people feel like they need to meet every requirement to apply for a job. Most employers create a preferred wish list when they create the posting. They understand people will not match all the qualifications. The challenge is knowing what requirements non-negotiables are. Typically, they are listed in order, but you can never know for sure.
Applying on a company website, Indeed, LinkedIn, etc., can be frustrating. Often candidates don’t receive any notification and if they do it is automatically generated.
Other options to keep in mind are:
- Networking with current and past friends and colleagues. Knowing people at the company helps as they may be able to put in a good recommendation on your behalf.
- Applying to roles where you meet at least 50% of the requirements.
- Using a Third-party recruiter who can provide insight on a company, position, etc., and provide additional guidance on your strategy.
Think of a targeted shotgun approach versus just a random shotgun approach. If you need other suggestions to help you in your search, please let me know.
I can be reached at 614-885-8490 or by e-mail at aw@ess123.com.
