She Strengthens

The Secret to Landing Your Dream Job: Insights from a Seasoned Recruiter

Job searching can be a daunting task, and it’s easy to feel like you’re sending your application into a black hole. But what if you could get a glimpse into the mind of a recruiter and learn what sets apart the successful candidates from the rest?

A Peek Behind the Curtain

I had the opportunity to chat with Adam Seabrook, a seasoned recruiter with 10 years of experience working with top companies like Google, Coca-Cola, and Dell. He shared his insights on what drew him to the world of recruiting, what makes a candidate stand out, and what common mistakes can land an application in the “no” pile.

A Passion for Building Great Teams

Adam’s passion for building great teams started at a young age, watching his father’s landscaping company thrive with the right employees. This focus on teamwork stayed with him as he became an entrepreneur and eventually turned to recruiting. For Adam, the most rewarding part of the job is finding the perfect fit – not just someone with the right skills, but someone who clicks with the team.

The Red Flags of Sloppiness

So, what makes Adam automatically dismiss an application? It’s not necessarily a lack of experience or qualifications, but rather signs of sloppiness. A few typos or formatting issues might be forgivable, but a careless approach to the application process raises concerns about a candidate’s work ethic and commitment to the role.

Standing Out in a Sea of Applications

So, how can you ensure your application gets noticed? Adam recommends doing your research and finding the hiring manager’s contact information. Reach out to them on LinkedIn or via email, mentioning your application and expressing your enthusiasm for the role. This proactive approach shows you’re hungry for the opportunity and willing to go the extra mile.

The Importance of Timely Responses

When Adam reaches out to a candidate, he expects a prompt response. If he doesn’t hear back within 24 hours, he’ll try another contact method before moving on. With aggressive spam filters, it’s essential to be patient but persistent in your communication.

The Biggest Interview Mistake

What’s the most common mistake candidates make during an interview? Talking negatively about their current employer or colleagues. Adam stresses the importance of keeping the conversation positive and respectful, even when faced with probing questions.

The Ideal Candidate

So, what qualities does Adam look for in a potential candidate? Energetic, likable, smart, motivated, modest, and team-oriented individuals tend to rise to the top. These traits indicate a candidate has the drive and ability to excel in most roles with the right training.

By understanding what recruiters like Adam look for in a candidate, you can increase your chances of landing your dream job. Remember to be proactive, meticulous, and positive, and you’ll be well on your way to success.