Prudence Allen

Questions:

Question:   I hate my job!   How do I transition from being an academic Recruiter to an   employment Recruiter?   I want a change of employers   but I also want to change what I now do?

Answer:   A transition, in any job function or discipline is not an easy thing to do but certainly not impossible.   Most skills are easily learned on the job but getting in the door is not always easy.   My advise to individuals who seek a transition is to network, network and then network some more.   The more people who know you are looking for a job, the easier your search will become.   Networking via the internet and through local chambers of commerce or societies is my favorite way to go.   However, finding an employer whom you want to work for and making a contact in HR is an even better way.   In addition to this, apply for and interview for every job that fits what you are looking for.   Looking at job postings on a regular basis gives you an idea of what employer's are looking for, thus helping you to modify your search or update your resume.   Interviewing for positions, even if you are not 100% interested gives you valuable information about the company, the open position and also sharpens your interviewing skills.   Bare in mind that finding a job can be a job in itself but is well worth it when you find the right one.   Happy job hunting!

Question:   After fifteen years in my job as an Administrative Assistant to the CEO, I was promoted to Senior Sales Associate now reporting to a Sales Manager in one of the company's many divisions.   Though it is a step-up for me, I find myself wishing I never made the move.   The CEO was always late getting to work so my time was never monitored, the work load was less, so I did not have many deadlines and I never got a bad review.   In this new position, I have constant deadlines, I am always in meetings and I got a verbal warning for being late three times in one week, trouble is, each time it was only about ten minutes.   I feel like I am being picked on and my new boss does not like me, how do I get HR to move me back to my old position?

Answer:   Congratulations on your promotion!   I get the feeling that HR would not move you back and I also have to let you know that I do not feel you are being picked on.   In many places of employment one minute late is late and employees are held accountable.   In others, a grace period is given.   It sounds to me that your new department has higher standards, tighter deadlines and many more requirements.   It also sounds like each employee is held accountable not only to deliver but also to be on time.   I would suggest that you abide by the rules and regulations of your new department and try to be succesful.   If you have performance deficiencies and feel you need guidance be very honest and open with your manager so you can get the help you need.   As for your tardiness, set your alarm so that you can start getting to work on or before time.   Good luck!

Dear Editor,

I have been with my company for the last   ten years.   Throughout the years I have experienced steady growth, until recently.   I have applied for a more senior level position in   another department   three times in the   last year but   have not   been successful.   With my knowledge and expertise I feel I am their best candidate. I   have also assisted in this department on numerous occasions.   Can you please advise what I should do?   I feel   like I have been treated unfairly.   I anxiously await your response.

Thank you

C. Bailey

Dear C. Bailey:

First I must applaud you for your stability in your career   and loyalty in your company for ten years!   I must tell you that is to be admired.   I must also state that your company is to be commended for promoting from within.   However, it sounds to me that you are reaching a road block in your present position and your desire is to move forward.   You also stated that not only do you have the experience for the position you applied for, but you have also worked in that department before.   Sounds to me like there is something lacking that you do not possess and I do not have enough information from your correspondence to respond in completion.   However, here are my suggestions; take the job description for the position you are applying for and dissect it - no do not rip it up.   Here is what I mean, retype the job description and make brackets next to each role and list if you have done or is qualified for that role.   If you have more than 70% listed as qualified to do or have already done, then move to the next step.   If not, work on getting the required experience before applying again.   Step two; request a meeting with the hiring manager.   Do not make it a confrontational meeting, be humble.   You are there to get help and to get hired for a position you think you can do.   Show the hiring manager your evaluation of the job description as it relates to your abilities.   Next, ask for feedback on how you did in the interview and tips on how to be promoted.   No matter the feedback you get, take it well and use it as an educational tool for the next time that job becomes open.   Hey, you may be hired just for your bravery and your in-depth look at the job description!

Wishing you a speedy move up the career ladder!

P. Allen, To you...

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