Today I would like to talk about a couple of things relating to interviewing and hiring that I have noticed lately as a recruiter specializing in the Oil and Gas arena. (Mostly in the Houston and Gulf Coast area) Clients are really picky so you better be prepared for your next interview. I have told numerous candidate during our preps that clients want what they want and there is nothing you can do other than to show how you can fill that need for them. Even in a tough economy if you solve the problem the company has, then most will aggressively go after you and make you a good offer. The days of just showing up for the interview, showing you can do the job and expecting a large raise is over.
Yes there are many people out there that are very good at what you do and your skill set is in demand. (Flow Assurance, Subsea Engineers, etc.) But even so, if you want the best positions and the best possible offer, then you need to aggressively go after the position, even if you are gainfully employed. That means preparing for an interview, a nice thank you letter, etc.
On the flip side, beware hiring authorities: While the pendulum has swung in your favor and in many cases you hold the upper hand in the interview process, I have seen many people turn down low ball offers or positions with limited growth even when they are underemployed or even unemployed. The interview process is a two way street and both sides need to make sure that they do not get too big for their britches. Be aware that your opportunity may not be “all that” and on the flip side that as a candidate your skills are not as good as you might think they are. If you go into an interview with some humbleness then I feel you will be more successful.
Maybe that is why I like being the "impartial third party"
Have a great day.
John
http://www.linkedin.com/in/johnhavranek
