The following is a note for all the Canucks feeling Election Fever. This was written in April, but it still seems somewhat relevant today. New post before the weekend, but enjoy this gem for now...thedanieljsmith....

Canada is about to have yet another election in October 2011, Many people have varying degrees of opinion over the value of an election, from saying that there is merit in “shaking up” the status quo, to relegating it to a popularity contest where the winner was never in doubt, as the candidate got their name out just one more time than their opponent. And it seems invariably that after the election takes place, there are nay-sayers about the process, and that they were right in not voting, as “their vote doesn’t matter”

That is all well and good; and being a democratic society we all have the right to that opinion. I am of the mind that “Change happens when Change Happens” or the ripple in the stream effect: Change can happen, just not overnight, and you have to be prepared for the long haul. Great opinion, but what does that have to do with recruiting. Those who don’t take the time or do the research really don’t have anything to complain about if the election doesn’t play out just like they want, the same is said for the job-seeker who doesn’t do his/her homework

There are two parties involved in any recruiting contract: you have the Recruiter; and you have the Job-seeker. How the two came into this situation probably had to do with an opening at an expanding organization. The recruiter heard about it and went about finding the candidates required. Our job-seeker may not have actively been searching when (s)he was contacted; but was curious about a “better offer” and opportunity than they currently have. Dollar signs and thoughts of a better life and promotions fill their mind. Possibly they were bored with the current challenge, or feel that they were not appreciated enough to continue down the present career path, and opt for the new opportunity. This brings us to the election scenario. On the ballot there are a number of options, the candidates in your home area. You get to pick one and if enough of their friends get the vote; then you have a new government. If you haven’t done the homework, or the research, there is a possibility your vote may go to the wrong party.

In a job-search situation, the recruiter has an opportunity. Whether it is right for the individual, that remains to be seen. How many people actually map out a career anyway? More times than not, if an opportunity sounds solid, we pursue it. And when it goes “south” who do we blame: Everybody who had a hand in “the hire” except for the job seeker.

I guess what I am trying to say in a long-winded way, is you have to take responsibilities for your decisions, and stand by them. A recruiter will present an opportunity, not break your arm if you choose not to proceed. You have to step up and follow through, however next time (and there will be one) you have to remember to do your homework first. This way you know what you will receive, and the surprises will be less.

That is a Radical idea….and Something to Think About….

©2011 thedanieljsmith