Job Search Challenges of 2015

Job Search Challenges of 2015

If you're searching for a new GIS job like me, you have probably run into some "issues".  Here is what I mean.  I have my resume on many of the big job boards, and some others that are particular to GIS.  I get many calls from recruiters who are looking to fill positions, mostly contract positions in other cities.

During the introductory call there a common exchange like this:
Me: "Will you send me a job description?"
Recruiter: "Sure, just send me an updated resume and salary requirements."

After I look at the job description, I will usually email the recruiter back, letting them know if I am interested in the position.  I will also send a resume and salary requirements if I determine that I can do the job as laid out in the job description.  Even if I don't feel comfortable taking on a job as laid out in the description, I still send a resume.  You never know when that recruiter might have another opportunity that is a better fit.

I will usually follow up one week after the initial call and sending of my resume to make sure that the recruiter has all the information they need.  Doing this also keeps my name in the front of their mind, and it also gives the recruiter and I an opportunity to address anything that can be done to make this a successful job search, leading to an offer and acceptance of the offer.

What happens next is all too common for me, and probably what you have experienced also.  Actually, nothing happens.  No calls back or emails come from the recruiter I talked to in the beginning of the process.

I will usually give the recruiter one more chance before I move on to the next opportunity by sending them an email.  Most of the time, there will be no reply, or a non-committal response, with the assurance that if there is more information, they will pass it along.

I have a couple of comments here.  First, I am not mad or upset at the recruiters, or the fact that they don't respond.  I know they have a hard job of finding the perfect person for jobs, and they also have to make sure that the financials for all parties involved work out so the recruiter's client can get the work done, and the worker can feed themselves and their family.

Secondly, there are many GIS jobs out there, and it is difficult to match people with skills to the jobs that require those skills.  Every person in the GIS field has a different set of skills and different levels of proficiency for those skills.  Also, there is a varying amount of time that each GIS professional has spent using these skills.

What are employers looking for?  Is the job description accurate?  What percentage of the skills listed in a job description must a potential hire have in order to be seriously considered for a job?  If someone doesn't have all the skills listed in the job description, is there a consideration to learn these in an OJT (on-the-job training) situation, or is the candidate rejected right away?

By the way, if you know of anyone who is hiring a mid-level GIS Developer/Analyst with 9 years of experience, please let me know.  I would love to talk to them!