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Straight from our recruiter to you
Our recruiters are the first ones to see your resume and talk with you either over the phone or in person. They’re the ones who give the go-ahead to candidates and send them along to our clients for the next stage of the job filling process. They’ve seen it all. And they’ve got some powerful advice to pass along.


“Take time to update your skills and learn the most recent software programs. It’s much easier to present you as a candidate if you show that kind of initiative. Free tutorials are often available through your Talent Tree Staffing Manager, local libraries or online sources.”


“Be ready to start at the bottom and work your way up, if you’re looking to change careers. Your dedication and willingness to learn the ropes will drive how fast you’ll climb that ladder.”


“Preparation is critical. Check out the company’s website that you’re interviewing with, get directions and refer to an online map service ahead of time and arrive early.”


“Nobody wants to see you without a resume. Even if the position you’re applying for isn’t in a traditional business setting, most companies still require a resume. So go out of your way to create one; your Talent Tree Staffing Manager can help you polish it, if necessary.”

ra-Carrie-McKnight.jpg Carrie McKnight
Talent Tree Recruiter since 2005
Costa Mesa, CA


“What makes or breaks a candidate is their presentation. Those who land the jobs first are those that present themselves well. Look polished, use a firm handshake, and show confidence in your interview answers.”


“Portray your lack of experience as a strength. If you’re looking down a new career path, showcase your lack of experience as a positive. Here’s your new employer’s chance to groom and mold someone who doesn’t bring with them any preconceived notions about the position.”


“Tell everyone you know that you’re looking for a job. No matter you’re your circumstances are, now’s the time to put yourself out there and network. You’ll be surprised how just letting everyone know that you’re out there looking will turn up possible leads.”


“Don’t wait for the job listing. All companies need good people. If you’ve pinpointed a specific company that you’re interested, don’t wait until they post your position. Let your Talent Tree Staffing Manager know that you are interested in an introduction to that company. We’re pros and marketing our top candidates to our clients!"


“Sell your transferable skills when looking to change careers. Organizational skills, software knowledge, people skills and management experience are all good talents to highlight when applying for a position where your specific experience falls short.”

ra-Jerome-Imhoff.jpg Jerome Imhoff
Talent Tree Recruiter since 2004
San Francisco, CA


“Let your resume be the table of contents that will start a great conversation about your story. Many people make the mistake of trying to stuff everything possible on that one little sheet of paper. Stick to the high points and let your interview fill in the rest.”


“Don’t lose your edge. It’s important that even if you’re out of work that you stay active within your industry. Join appropriate organizations within your industry and read up on the latest news.”


“It’s not all about you getting a job. It’s about how you’re going to be an asset for a company. Once you shift to that perspective, you’ll be better positioned to sell yourself to a company.”


“Don’t be shy. Even if it’s an entry-level job and you’re new to the hiring process, now’s not the time to be a shrinking violet. Put yourself out there. Start with a firm handshake and show you’re confident that you can do the job.”


“Don’t put your picture on your resume. While you might think that you’re putting a face to the name, it’s better to leave off your photo and let the personal interview be the time to get to know each other.”

ra-Jerome-Imhoff.jpg Bette Puffer
Talent Tree Staffing Recruiter since 2007
Houston, TX


“Salary isn’t everything. Be flexible when it comes to salary and you’ll likely be rewarded with the potential for growth. Even if you know you have the skills and experience that could command a higher salary, the position with the lower salary can be your foot in the door to prove your worth and get your farther faster.”


“Be open to temporary positions. While your goal may be a permanent position, the path to getting there can often start out in a temporary assignment. Not only does it get your foot in the door, it gives you a chance to try out the company and see if it’s the right fit for you.”


“Just because you’re done with school, doesn’t mean you’re finished learning. You may think that you’ve kissed your school days goodbye, but if you’re serious about being a top applicant then you must be vigilant about staying on top of your game. Take advantage of training programs offered through your recruiter’s office and any online tutorials that will keep your skills fine tuned.”

Gwen Poole
Talent Tree Recruiter since 1986
New York, NY


“Eye contact is everything. When I meet an applicant, I want them to look me in the eye and show me that they’re confident about their skills and ability to do this job. Now is not the time to be shy and demure. If you want the job, look us in the eye and show it.”


“No experience? Then make a great first impression. You might have the degree and the skills to do the job, but often lack of experience can be a mark against you. Make up for it with a great first impression. Dress to impress, show up a little early and show confidence with your body language. It will go a long way.”


“Let your recruiter market your skills. When sending your resume to a recruiter, be sure to include all your skills on your resume. That way, she can throw out a wider net when trying to market you for potential positions. The recruiter will present your skills the right way for each position to help maximize your potential assignments.”

Marisel Tate
Talent Tree Recruiter since 2004
Peachtree City, GA

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