Recruiter Real Talk

Recruiting for advanced manufacturing roles is both an art and a science. With over 15 years of experience in talent acquisition, I’ve learned that this sector comes with its own unique challenges—but also incredible opportunities for those who know where to look and how to connect. In this article, I’m sharing insights and strategies I’ve honed over the years to source and hire top talent in the advanced manufacturing industry. Understanding the Landscape of Advanced Manufacturing Advanced manufacturing is a dynamic field, evolving rapidly by integrating new technologies like automation, robotics, and AI. These innovations mean that the skills required in this industry are also shifting. It’s not just about finding someone who can operate a machine; it’s about sourcing talent who can think critically, adapt to change, and learn new systems quickly. This complexity is why recruitment in advanced manufacturing requires a deep understanding of the industry’s nuances. To be successful, yo...

How to Turn Negative Employment Experiences into Constructive Career Moves        Identifying Patterns and Opportunities for Growth Navigating the turbulent waters of modern employment can often feel like an exercise in futility, especially after encountering continuous negativity in the workplace. One person I recently worked with shared their struggles with consistent job dissatisfaction despite 15 years of experience, ranging from toxic work environments to perpetual permatemp positions. This article draws on community responses to offer constructive feedback and practical steps for transforming these experiences into career-enhancing moves. Acknowledging the Role of Self-Reflection The first and perhaps most challenging step is embracing self-reflection. While it's easy and sometimes comforting to attribute career setbacks solely to external factors, such as toxic managers or unfortunate company cultures, personal growth stems from looking inward. One r...

How to Navigate Total Compensation in Today's Job Market?   In an ever-changing job market, understanding your true worth is not just about knowing your salary; it is about comprehensively evaluating your total compensation plan. This understanding can empower you to make informed decisions about job offers, negotiate effectively, and plan your career path strategically. Here’s how you can calculate your true worth and break down your total compensation to ensure you're getting what you deserve.   Step 1: Understand Your Total Compensation Package Total compensation extends beyond your basic salary. It includes various elements that can significantly impact your earnings and job satisfaction. Here’s what to consider: ·         Base Salary: Your annual base pay. ·         Bonuses and Incentives: Performance bonuses, profit-sharing plans, and other incentives. ·         Benef...

If you follow @SHRM, you will know there is an important hearing taking place regarding skill-based hiring. During the hearing, I was captivated by the words of one speaker, who eloquently highlighted the limitations of conventional employment practices. They emphasized the need to look beyond degrees and focus on identifying individuals' gifts, aptitudes, and skills. Their words resonated deeply with me, as I had personally experienced the transformative power of skill-based employment practices. In my own journey, I realized that many talented individuals were being overlooked by employers simply because their skills were more challenging to identify than a degree on a resume. The prevailing assumption that skills can only be acquired through college education needed to be challenged. It was time for organizations to shift their focus from where skills were obtained and instead prioritize the skills themselves. One effective way to implement skill-based hiring is through the use ...

Striking the Right Balance: How I Conveyed Confidence without Arrogance in My Job Interview As I prepared for my recent job interview, I realized the importance of projecting confidence without coming across as arrogant or having an inflated ego. Navigating this delicate balance was crucial to making a positive impression and showcasing my abilities effectively. By employing several techniques, I successfully demonstrated my confidence while remaining humble and respectful. Here's how I did it: First and foremost, thorough preparation became the cornerstone of my interview strategy. I dedicated ample time to researching the company, the role I was applying for, and the industry as a whole. This in-depth knowledge allowed me to speak confidently and intelligently about the organization, its values, and recent developments. Armed with this information, I was able to convey my enthusiasm for the company without sounding boastful. To further bolster my confidence, I diligently practice...