Brad Remillard is the founding partner at IMPACT HIRING SOLUTIONS. He has over 30 years experience assisting candidates conduct an effective and efficient job search. He is the co-author of two books on hiring and does a weekly Internet radio show dedicated to hiring. He’s here to offer his advice on getting your job search in gear.
Q. I left Orange County about 14 years ago and am returning due to a divorce which has left me as a single mother. Although it seems to be an inconvenient time to be returning home to California, I haven’t any other choice. I am unaware of how jobs in my profession as an X-ray technologist are faring in the economy today as well as the competition within my profession. Being that I still have to take two state exams in order to perform my duties in my profession, I will be marketing myself mostly for a job in the medical field and need advice on how to stand out above the rest. Most of my experience/education has been military-related, as an Army veteran, which allowed me the opportunity to perform duties broader than that of the equivalent civilian position. I am unaware of how salaries compare from one state to another. For example; $22 an hour in Wilmington, N.C. is decent pay, but how does that compute with the salary and lifestyle affordability in Dana Point? Are there employers within the medical/dental field that are cross training?
A. In today’s market companies are more reluctant to hire someone without the required skills than in good economic times. Generally, because there are skilled people often available.
I would highly recommend taking the two state exams as soon as possible. This will be your fastest way to employment. Next you need to come up to speed on the job market in Orange County. Doing some simple research will prove very valuable. Being unaware is never a good thing. Start with the EDD. They are a good resource to answer many of your questions. Get involved in some networking groups. I have referred many people to the career networking group that meets at Saddleback Church every Monday night at 7 p.m. They provide excellent training and resources and you don’t have to belong to the church to participate.
I Googled “X-ray technician jobs Orange County,” and discovered there are jobs in Orange County and I also got a range for compensation. I think your questions regarding compensation and the job market will be answered by doing this. It will also prove valuable by helping you become aware of what the market is in Orange County.
Q. Our industry is one that is actually growing during this recession. Some of my people are getting recruiters calling them offering them new positions. We can’t afford to lose anyone at this time. Is there any way to keep recruiters away from my people?
A. The short answer is no.
You can’t stop recruiters from calling your people, but you can to a very large degree make your company recruiter-resistant. The best way to stop recruiters is making sure your best people don’t want to leave. I have made thousands of recruiting calls in 30 years as a recruiter. Employees that really enjoy their work, the company and their boss generally thank me for calling and then turn me down.
I have discovered the best way to defend against recruiters is by making sure you continually provide your employees three things:
- The opportunity to always be learning
- The belief they are a making an impact
- The idea that they are growing and becoming better
This requires a boss they respect and one that is willing to take the time to understand their needs.
Read more of Brad Remillard’s job advice HERE.
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