Interview with an IT Recruiter
Q: Any tips for career changers/entry-level people trying to break into technology?
Is it a good idea for those people to work with recruiters or do recruiters mostly focus on people who already have industry experience?
A: One of the biggest challenges career-changers/entry-level candidates face is getting in the door. Hiring managers will take chances on less-experienced applicants if they can demonstrate what they've learned during an interview. It doesn't mean becoming an expert. Instead, be able to explain what courses you chose, why you selected them and what you have learned as a result of enrolling in that course or degree program. Placements and co-ops in addition to these degree programs will only help candidates gain practical work experience, and if they are successful, gain a strong cadre of references outside the academic world who will verify a person's accomplishments. Finally, the Internet is relatively new to everyone. Very few of us are experts, but many of us can bring relevant experience from other industries. Knowing how to package and translate this outside experience into this new media is very helpful.
Recruiters who have a well-known reputation, do their research in order to represent your interests, and provide you with feedback on a regular basis are the types of individuals who should represent you. Avoid the pushy, hard-nosed, money-hungry recruiters that view you as a "walking pound note." There are so many agencies to choose from, but the challenge is finding the recruiter or agency that will not only represent your interests, but will treat you the way you expect to be treated. This includes providing you with enough information about the company, the position and the hiring manager(s) before you interview there and telling you where and when your CV is submitted and asking your permission to send it. If a recruiter or agency fails to meet the aforementioned objectives, do not, under any circumstances, have them represent you.
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