Job seeker Q&A

On Today’s Menu

• Job seeker Q&A - answers to 5 questions sent in by you, the subscribers

Estimated read time: 3 minutes

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Questions from you, the job seeker

This week’s issue will be centred on answering questions sent in by subscribers to this newsletter. In this special Q&A edition, I draw upon my over 15 years of experience in talent acquisition and career services to answer some of your pressing questions.

Question 1: Should I discuss salary in the initial stages of the interview process, especially when the recruiter is aware of my salary range?

Absolutely, discussing the salary early on is a prudent approach. Having clarity about the compensation range early in the process can prevent potential miscommunications later on. Always ensure that the job roles you are being submitted for align with your salary expectations. Moreover, make it a point to understand the company’s criteria for the higher end of the salary range. Before giving a nod to any opportunity, ask for the details in writing to avoid “miscommunications” that often occur based on verbal commitments.

Question 2: I often find myself adding 15% or more to my current compensation when asked by a recruiter. Is this strategy wise?

In the fierce competitive landscape, it is imperative to look out for one’s best interest. While I wouldn’t encourage dishonesty, it’s a reality that many candidates add a cushion to their current compensation to have a favorable ground in future negotiations. However, it’s smarter to focus on the desired salary range rather than the current compensation. And remember, in several states asking for current compensation is banned, and insisting on it isn’t legally compliant. In Canada, there aren’t currently any laws prohibiting employers from asking about current comp.

Question 3: How much does my social media presence matter during the recruitment process?

While many recruiters don't invest time scrutinizing candidates' social media platforms due to the hectic schedule, it is always better to err on the side of caution. It’d be wise to maintain a professional demeanor on platforms like LinkedIn. Keeping your social media profiles free of controversial content can prevent potential biases and ensure that you’re evaluated based on your skills and professionalism rather than your personal opinions. Avoid posting about hot topics that would open you up to discrimination (i.e., politics, religion etc.).

Question 4: What is your take on AI job aggregators and should I consider them in my job search strategy?

AI job aggregators can be a double-edged sword. While they can help you find numerous opportunities fast, they might also flood recruiters with unqualified resumes, making it even more challenging for you to stand out. I would advise against solely relying on automated applications; they can reduce your chances of establishing a valuable connection with a recruiter who could potentially steer you towards the right opportunities. The personal touch and understanding that a recruiter brings to the table can often be a decisive factor in landing an interview.

Question 5: The job search process often seems overwhelming with tracking numerous applications and interviews. How can I manage this effectively?

Keeping track of your job search meticulously can make a big difference. I’d recommend creating a job tracking spreadsheet in MS Excel or Google Sheets where you note down all the pertinent details like the company name, role, date of application, and the recruiter's contact details. Make it a practice to keep notes of all interactions, including interviews and follow-ups. Also, leveraging calendar apps for setting reminders can be extremely helpful. Remember, organization is key to navigating the job search process efficiently, and keeping a systematic record can prevent you from feeling overwhelmed and could also help you troubleshoot in the event you’re not seeing the results you want.

About the Author

I’m James, Cofounder of Final Draft Resumes. I’ve been in the career consulting space for 13 years, and before that, I was a recruiter for AECOM.

I’ve helped thousands of job seekers, from industries like software engineering, IT, sales, marketing, manufacturing, and more generate job opportunities through well-written resumes that translate unique backgrounds into coherent narratives.

If you’re struggling with your resume for whatever reason, reach out - I just might be able to help!

If you’re more of a DIY person, then check out Resumatic, my free-to-try resume builder.