What to Expect When Working with a Military Search Firm (AKA: Recruiter)
In early 2005 I decided to leave the Active Army and pursue a business career. As I began the transition that spring, I really had no idea how to find a job that I was qualified for or would enjoy. Then a fellow officer mentioned he was talking with The Lucas Group. I asked him what the firm did and he mentioned that it was a recruiting firm that was retained by members of Corporate America to hire Junior Military Officers (O-1 – O-3) to fill middle management positions. On occasion, the firm would look to place Senior NCOs (E7-E9) or Field Grade Officers (O-4- O-5) as well.
As I did some further research I found that there were almost ten such firms out there. Over the years I have interacted with Bradley Morris, The Lucas Group, Cameron Brooks, Orion International, SOAR and Defense Placements with generally favorable experiences.
After establishing a LinkedIn account and signing up for Hello I’m Logistics I would recommend contacting several military search firms in order to gauge your employability and market value.
These firms are a great source when it comes to learning how to write an effective resume, preparing for an interview, selecting professional attire for the job search and most importantly gaining access to job fairs with recruiters from companies ready to hire in attendance.
When you decide to work with a military search firm keep in mind that the search firm does not work for you. The search firm works for the company (i.e. GE, Wal-Mart, Home Depot etc) who has hired the search firm to find people to fill positions. The search firm is hired for a fee (sometimes at a set price other times the equivalent of 3-6 month’s salary of the person ultimately hired).
You are the product. If you are in the logistics you are easier to place than an infantry guy. The lack of a stellar pedigree can be forgiven with the right skill set at the right time. The recruiter at the search firm will work with you just enough to get you prepared for the interview. They will point you toward a line of work you may be interested in, make sure you have a decent resume, know what to wear and direct you toward general information (blogs, books or magazines) in order to make you sound coherent. Any other preparation is up to you with the exception of Cameron Brooks. (Another post)
Working with a search firm is not without financial cost. You need to be aware you will be picking up the expense of all travel going to a job fair. That’s right. Be prepared to pay out of pocket for attire, airfare, hotel, rental car, meals etc. Think of it as an investment in your future (and a tax write off). This is not particularly a bad thing. You just need to be prepared and conduct an ongoing cost benefit analysis. If most of the firms in attendance at the job fair are in the manufacturing field, but you want to work in logistics, then you probably do not want to attend. Some search firms are better than others of keeping your tight budget in mind.
If you are selected for a follow up interview then the expenses of that trip will be covered by the company conducting the interview.
As you work with a search firm you will need to be aware that communication can be spotty. After you fill out the online application you will most likely be contacted for a phone screen. If after looking over your resume and application you are not a fit for a current position it is not unusual to never hear from the recruiter again. Your emails and texts will disappear into the abyss and your voice messages will only be returned by the sound of silence.
At the same time don’t be surprised six months later when your phone rings and you hear the same recruiter on the other end acting like an old friend. Don’t be offended, it’s just part of the game. The excuse…err… reason… given for this practice is that the the recruiters are overwhelmed by sheer numbers of applicants. Ok. If you say so…. Read about what makes a good Recruiter!
If you are a recruiter at a military search firm I would love to hear your thoughts or tip for candidates. Contact me at william.mcneely@helloimlogistics.com.
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