What Recruiters Want – And How You Can Land A High-Paying Job

With some jobs calling for an endless combination of skills, there are some key traits that are often universal, whether you are on a short-term temp role, or a senior executive looking for that big career move.

As a specialised recruitment consultancy with a strong track record and network in Asia, we have developed a keen sense of some do’s and don’ts for the best chances of being hired for the job you want.

Let’s look at how you can work your way towards building a positive relationship with your recruiter and thereby encourage them to invest in you, rather than someone else in their network. Here are some key points to consider first:

You have no idea what you want to do next?

The pandemic may have led you to some eye-opening revelations that changes the way you look at your job and your work/life balance equation. With an alteration in pace post-2020, this could be your time to try out a new role or lead with a change of direction. You are likely to be working a long time so taking a leap and engaging with a head-hunter can land you a new opportunity.

Have a chat with a specialist recruiter to get a sense of what you enjoy – and what you don’t.

You did not get the job you applied for. What’s next?

If you know what you want but did not land that coveted role in one of the leading global companies, there is no need to despair. It could be your chance to try for smaller organisations or start-ups in the same industry, or search for inter-related roles.

For instance, the sales and marketing industry does contain a broad range of roles across a range of industries such as Financial Services, Professional Services, Media, E-commerce, Health, Real Estate and FMCG.

Similarly, the financial services spectrum ranges from roles in banking, funds management to insurance and FinTechs. We have been able to place experienced individuals with their specific skillsets across different industries, while still ensuring the company and role is a right fit.

Setting the record straight on switching jobs

“Stay in a job for at least two years.” “Never leave a job until you have your next one lined up.” Most have stuck to this advice as the best way before switching jobs. The two-year rule has often been universally applied to demonstrate that you can take responsibility and are trustworthy.

At The Edge Partnership, 3.2 years is the average tenure of our staff, but this does not mean you should stick it out at a job for the sake of your resume as this is no longer as valid as it used to be. The market is constantly changing and recruiters just want to know that you made use of the time either to gain a new skill, are reliable and have the right skillsets.

Building a network

Your network can provide you with job leads, reference letters, job search advice and insight into new fields. Even if you are well established in your job and have no plans of moving or advancing your career soon, networking has proven to be a valuable use of your time.

Starting with LinkedIn, you can leverage the many “social capital” tools that are offered by this network from connecting with your 1^st and 2^nd degree connections, writing posts regularly, keeping in touch with people from the same industry and connecting with recruitment companies for new job postings.

Attending meetings and social events hosted by your professional association is a great way to connect with people in your field as well.

Approach your job search with a financially literate mindset

Beyond money being a factor in your job search, the ability to understand and discuss the finances of the company you are trying to join will always help at the interview. There are courses on Udemy that specifically focus on ‘how to talk finance’ and learn how companies are structured, trade and are financed.

Brush up on your financial know-how and think long and hard about understanding the key financial drivers of the company and how this will enhance your ability to contribute to the improved financial performance of your organisation.

Professional qualifications matter

Certifications can make a difference in your job search and pay scale, but not all certifications are created equal. Professional certifications add value to your portfolio.

Those who hold certificates in their industry may earn up to 20% or more than peers who have not earned certifications, according to some reports.

In today’s job market, the more you bring to the table, the better. Experience is a great asset. Paired with the traditional learning from certifications, you can show a balance of ability and skills.

Getting the right ‘recruiter’

Good recruiters will play a vital role in hiring. At The Edge Partnership, we are dedicated to finding the best of the best candidates and build a strong employer brand to consistently attract strong talent, particularly those who are passively looking.

If you think partnering with a recruiter is the right option for you and you would like to find out more about your career options, you can take a look at our list of jobs.

We have been instrumental with several growth clients, to help them unearth senior candidates who have transformed the face of the business, particularly within the Fintech, Funds and Professional Services space.

Here’s a list of updated do’s and don’ts to have in a top-notch CV.

DO’S

–  Put your name across the top and your contact details on the next line. Insert your city, but avoid putting your address.

–  Stick to an A4 sheet, and ideally not more than two sides to keep your information compact. A CV is meant to serve as an informational record of your career. Indicate the reasons why you are suitable for this job in a cover letter to accompany your CV.

–  Section your CV into three core areas: education (professional qualifications); employment history; and additional information.

–  State your work experience and account for every year chronologically.

–  Account for another section featuring additional skills, achievements and interests but keep it brief.

–  Focus on your achievements as much as your responsibilities, it is important to detail how you made a difference and what you delivered.

–  Try to qualify and quantify your responsibilities and achievements where you can, make them specific and numbers based where appropriate.

DON’TS

–  Do not include your marital status or number of children – these are irrelevant details unrelated to your job.

–  Do not include your date of birth.

–  Avoid fancy typeface – stick to Arial or Calibri.

–  Don’t use clichés. Everyone likes to say they’re a team player with great communication skills who can work under pressure. Instead, use your experience to demonstrate how you can do those things.

–  Don’t include pages of obscure testimonials, references, newspaper cuttings and brochures.

If you are looking for a job in Asia’s best cities, feel free to reach out to us or browse our international database of jobs. As experts in hiring the top talent in major Asian markets, we can help you find the right fit.