Recruiting Insights Within a Crazy Market

It’s a tough market for job seekers (you’re probably thinking, that’s the understatement of the year!). I wanted to offer you some insights for all those who are looking for new opportunities. While not an expert opinion, it is based on my experience in the tech industry and all the ups and downs I’ve seen over 18 years in this business.??

It is a frustrating time for everyone right now. There is so much uncertainty with layoffs, budget cuts, and wondering if your position is safe or your company is stable. Morale takes a hit for both those still working AND for those looking. My team talks to candidates all day every day – we hear the fear, frustration, and exhaustion in their voices. One of the best parts of recruiting is the opportunity to really connect with other people and learn what they are passionate about. We are all in recruiting because we love it – we love helping people, we love matching someone to their perfect job and we love being a part of their career journey. When circumstances keep us from being able to do those things, well, it sucks. That may seem cliché, but if you talk to most recruiters across any industry, they will most likely say the same thing.??

Recruiting for consulting roles is different from recruiting for full-time employment. Consulting is an ever-changing, constantly moving industry. New roles with clients pop up daily, sometimes even hourly. We have an imperative to find qualified candidates for a client fast, but we cannot often see far in the future. So, we often source and prequalify candidates for common roles rather than for specific roles.??

If you hear from Prime 8 recruiters, it is because we want to help find that perfect role for you, even if it isn’t available at that exact moment. Many candidates are hesitant to talk with recruiters if there isn’t a role open for them, but it is important to know that changes happen quickly and often. We talk with people all day every day so that we can find out what they love, what they are looking for and how we can help. That way, when the perfect role does open, we can shortcut the time it takes to get you in front of our client quickly.??

Under normal circumstances, this is a slower time of year. With the budget cuts, layoffs and hiring freezes, this year is even slower. We see the impact this has on everyone firsthand – hiring managers are desperate because they need help and candidates are exhausted by the applying/interviewing process.??

The good news is that typically in late Spring or early Summer, things start to pick up on the job market. Often, hiring managers receive new budget and headcount this time of year and our phone starts ringing with talent requests. Anticipating this, we continue candidate outreach so we’re ready because we know the market will turn around just like it has in the past. With every downturn comes a recovery.?

Keep your spirits up and trust that great things are around the corner – and that we are here to help in any way we can!?