Where the jobs are…

The Maritime and Oil & Gas job markets are active but you need to know where to look.  A recent article in the Wall Street Journal @wsj highlights the fact that many jobs are not advertised at all.  Many advertised job postings are just being used to gather resumes and build a database.   It’s almost impossible to know if a posting is for a real job or not.   How does a candidate sort through the clutter and keep aware of the hidden job market?

Managers and companies are looking for qualified people.    Up to 50% of jobs are filled through informal processes.  It’s important to stay connected to the market and people who are aware of what’s going on behind the scenes.  As part of your strategy to keep aware of opportunities and market developments, you should develop a relationship with reputable executive recruiter.

Having an experienced recruiter on your side will help you navigate the hidden job market and the back channels of the hiring process that are developing.   Not all recruiters are the same.  Take time to vet the person who will be representing you.  Ask about their education and experience.   It’s important to work with someone you trust who has the experience and industry contacts to know what’s going on in the market.