SearchPath of Chicago News
Filling mission critical openings for our client companies!
SearchPath of Chicago, Inc. is 100% open and filling mission critical positions for our client companies.
#hillmanheadhunter #searchpathofchicago
Recruiting Industry News & Articles
4 Qualities to Look for in an Executive Search Partner
By Chris Hillman, Recruiting Professional
SearchPath of Chicago, Inc.
www.searchpathofchicago.com
Employees can leave, retire and some just aren’t the right fit sometimes. Departments can also expand and grow, and new positions are needed. When these things happen, companies are left to bring on the right talent to fill roles. When that happens, it’s important to ensure that you have the right resources to help find that talent and executive search partners are a great resource to have and these are four qualities to look for when finding the perfect partner for your company:
- They understand they are a reflection of you – find a partner that understands that how they portray themselves with candidates is a direct reflection of your company. Ensuring that they put its best foot forward is important so that candidates associate their first experience with them is aligned with their experience with the company.
- Take the time to learn – In order for an executive search partner to be a true reflection on the company they need to take the time to learn the company. Ask them what that process looks like and if there isn’t a process for that, it’s a sign that they do not take the time to truly understand the company, goals or roles.
- Understand time is of the essence – If you’re looking for an executive search partner then you’re most likely needing to fill a role quickly and having a partner that understands that time sensitivity is important. Asking their average time to fill a role for different ole types is a good indicator of how quickly they can work.
- Commitment to Results – a partner shouldn’t be only focused on bringing on talent; they should be focused and motivated to bring on the right talent that will help propel your company forward.
Finding an Executive Search Partner isn’t enough – you have to find the right, qualified, motivated search partner to work with. The future of your company depends on it.
For additional information, please email Chris Hillman or call (815) 261-4403 x 100
Preparing for Virtual Interviews
By Chris Hillman, Recruiting Professional
SearchPath of Chicago, Inc.
searchpathofchicago.com
Virtual meetings were considered a convenience a few months ago for companies to bring employees together. Now, they are considered necessary to conduct business with stay-at-home orders in place. In the same vein, companies used virtual interviews when necessary for geographical reasons but now, they are necessary to continue the hiring process. Here are some tips to help prepare for video interviews:
- It’s still an interview: Just because you will not be face to face with your potential employer, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t prepare as though you would be. Do you research, know who you’re speaking to, have your questions ready and do not rely on notes.
- Check your technology: With video interviews there comes an extra layer on uncertainty and that’s your hardware – make sure to check and double check before the interview.
- Internet – ensure you have a good internet connection. You can disconnect any non-needed devices such as cell phones, Bluetooth speakers, etc. to strengthen your wifi internet connection. Also switching from wifi to a wired ethernet connection may improve your internet reliability.
- Device – Make sure that your computer is charged or plugged in so that your computer/tablet/phone doesn’t power off in the middle of the interview.
- Audio and visual – Check your sound quality with your device’s internal speakers and if not strong, consider using headphones. If you’re device does not have a quality built-in camera, consider purchasing a webcam.
- Conference software – Be familiar with the software that the company is using for the interview. Not comfortable with it? Try doing a test run with a friend to have it predownloaded on your device and can navigate it well.
- Prepare yourself: Make sure you look the part and that you appear your best on camera. Take into the same considerations that you would for an in-person interview – know the culture of the company and dress the part. One pro tip – wear solid colors and avoid patterns.
- Prepare your surroundings: You won’t be the only thing on camera, your background will also be predominant. Ensure that it’s professional and clutter-free. Know what the noise will be and do not choose a room with background noise (people talking, cars, kids playing, etc.) so that it doesn’t become a distraction. In the same vein, ensure your phone is on silent so no incoming messages distract you.
- And Action! You’re prepared, the technology is tested and you are dressed the part and have the right surrounding. Now, it’s time to impress. Make sure you’re aren’t too close or too far away from the camera (ideally you’ll want your shoulders and up on camera). Watch your body language, don’t get distracted with anything on your desk and remember to smile!
Virtual interviews might be a new concept for many professionals, but just as though you can prepare for a face-to-face interview, you can be just as prepared for a virtual interview. With the changed taking place in the business world, we must learn to adapt to those changes and we’re here to help with those changes.
Good luck at your next interview!
For additional information, please email Chris Hillman or call (815) 261-4403 x 100
