Headhunter Hiring Secrets

Most people think of games as fun entertainment. But searching for a job and getting hired is a game too, and it's one that many people have been playing for far too long in these tough economic times. And one of the big problems is many of the people playing don't know the rules.

So says Skip Freeman, author of Headhunter Hiring Secrets: The Rules of the Hiring Game Have Changed...Forever, who is this week's Salary Talk guest. As a professional headhunter himself and president of an executive search firm, Freeman tells Aaron and Wendy the stunning truth: that many people don't know what they're up against during the hiring process and have no idea how to put themselves in the best possible position to get interviews and eventually the job.

For instance, Freeman said too many job hunters rely on online postings. While online job boards are helpful, they're available to everyone with an Internet connection. During searches for his clients, Freeman said up to one-third of the job openings he has to fill are often unlisted---making them part of the "hidden job market." That's why Freeman advises people to use other methods that are far more effective than staying online.

Also, job seekers need to remember that employers -- at least initially -- are not trying to determine who is the best person for the job. Just the opposite in fact. Instead, they are trying to exclude as many candidates as possible before they trim the field and present finalists. Even getting in the door via your resume is a different ballgame now, Freeman said, because many companies use HR software that electronically scores resumes looking for certain keywords. If your resume isn't optimized to account for these programs, you don't stand a chance.

This 30-minute podcast will open your eyes to job hunter shortcomings, and might be the first step in figuring out why you're not getting the callbacks.

Connect with Today's Guest: Discover more about Skip Freeman by visiting the book's website, www.headhunterhiringsecrets.com, and also his search firm Hire to Win.