Chris Taylor is not your typical job coach. For starters, he has never been beholden to traditional career advice. “I know what it’s like to wonder if there is more out there for you” says Chris.
That’s why he believes young professionals should stack the deck in their favor when job searching by using high-level staffing agencies, headhunters, and job coaches.
For the last few years, Chris has been helping young professionals land the job of their dreams with his modern job coaching company the Occupation Optimist. But long before he ventured out on his own, he worked as a headhunter for some of the largest firms in the country.
We sat down with Chris to pick his brain about how to be found, how best to sell yourself, and the best resources for a job search.
Not only were his answers eye-opening and motivating, they’re also good bits of inspiration to keep in your job search journey. Here’s his best advice about working with top companies, staffing agencies, and headhunters:
The Best Companies, Staffing Agencies & Headhunters Are Already Looking for You on LinkedIn
“The first point of contact for over 90 percent of my placements come through LinkedIn. Staffing agencies expect a strong Linkedin profile not only so they can find you, but it makes it easier for them to sell your career snapshot to a client’s hiring manager.”
“A strong LinkedIn profile should be visually appealing, should attract the attention of Recruiters and Headhunters and most importantly should help you to network with your peers within the industry in which you’re pursuing.”
Most Staffing Agencies & Their Headhunters Are Underutilized
“Some people treat the process like any other interview. Instead, you should use your headhunter as a resource, letting him or her prep you for the upcoming interview. That consists of understanding the potential company and position. Understanding what the interviewer is looking for. And maybe even understanding what questions will be asked.
Using the headhunter as a resource will increase your chances of landing an offer. Which is in your best interest, as well as in the best interest of the headhunter, who often only gets paid if a hire is finalized.”
The Most Impressive Candidates Know Exactly What they Want…And Have the Research to Back it Up
“I’m always amazed by the progress that’s made with candidates who zero in on what they’re looking for,” says Chris. “Then they can proactively and strategically target opportunities that are a true fit.”
Start With A Staffing Agency, Then Level Up With A Job Coach
According to the American Staffing Association “America’s staffing companies hire more than 15 million temporary and contract employees” every year.
– 76% of these workers are full time, comparable to the overall workforce (82%).
– 49% of staffing employees say it’s a way to get a permanent job.
– 35% were offered a permanent job by a client where they worked on an assignment. And 66% of those accepted the offers of permanent employment.
“You’ll need to pay a job coach for help with revamping your resume, rebranding your LinkedIn, or for networking and job hunt strategy. But you shouldn’t have to pay for a Headhunter. So be sure to use one!”
