Everything is screaming shortage and crisis. Employers say that there are not enough motivated and skilled candidates, and the candidates say there are not enough jobs. It is possible with political action that this situation is going to change… one day. However, I know that it will not be enough.
I believe that ecology starts from the inside out. And what every one of the market participants can do, is to start acting more consciously and environmentally. Now. Step-by-Step.
Here are the five principles that I share in my work, whether my client is an employer or a job seeker.
Principle 1: Focused research
In a world saturated by information, it becomes more and more difficult to promote your company profile or stand out as a candidate. The submission of too many applications or advertisements, and randomly, does not give a good result, and (most often) leads to discouragement.
There are so many different ways to tell the world that you are looking for a job or an employee. And the more purposefully and clearly you proceed the greater are your chances to succeed. The best efficiency is achieved with two or three well-focused research channels rather than the usual posting or replying to an advert on “the most popular” site for ads, where the result is usually inadequate for your search.
For employers – too much poor applications, i.e. spam, and for the candidates – nothing. The probability of not being noticed or appreciated in the crowd is significant. So: diversify and focus your channels well and do not stop to actively communicate.
Principle 2: Sustainable image
Any search campaign for an employee or employer is in fact an advertisement campaign. Any candidate, if not chosen this time, may become a client, contractor or supplier tomorrow. Bulgaria is a small country and thanks to the Internet, the whole world is the same way. That is why it is important to take care of relationships that arise during the selection process. To communicate comprehensively and to respond to all received messages.
You can save time by sending an automated reply by e-mail or text message. Saving time by ignoring communication irretrievably damages the image of both employers and candidates.
Principle 3: All are equal
A respectful and positive attitude towards all people in touch with the business of the company is the key to success for any entrepreneur. The interview is not an interrogation or a diagnostic session. It is a conversation for acquaintance, exchange of information, thoughts, ideas, and eventually agreement. An interview is a good start for a long-term “ecological” relationship, regardless of the final decision of either party.
Today’s ‘no’ does not mean that tomorrow there will not be another opportunity to sit down and talk again to this employer or candidate in a similar or different situation and role.
Principle 4: Effective network of contacts
The labour market is … above all a market. It has rules very similar to other commercial market rules: there are niches, prices and bargaining. Here, “the experience” is what sells. And for a good “deal” to happen, as well as in other market situations, we greatly rely on our network of contacts. It helps us orientate in a sea of information, to gather arguments and make a decision. 80% of the good performance in a job selection or job search is achieved through a well-functioning network of contacts.
And we are not just talking about “friends” in social networks, but about people we really know. Building and maintaining an effective network of contacts requires long, conscious and active “win / win” relations.
Principle 5: Continuous development
We more and more often hear that there is a crisis, there is lack of qualified cadres and opportunities in the labour market. The crisis is mostly a transformation.
Yes, maybe there are fewer “Secure-and-full-time” opportunities. However, more and more candidates are looking for flexibility in their work. Businesses are also becoming more agile, involving freelance experts in their projects. Employment legislation is also developing in this direction.
New industries are born and others are fading. Business and work become more global and remote. Those who succeed are people who are open and quickly adaptive to the new opportunities and supportive of dynamic ecological relationships.
This is my wish to you with all my heart!