Clearpoint Voices: Jessica Stricker, Recruiter

Get to know Clearpoint and staff through our Clearpoint Voices Q&A Interview

Jessica Stricker, Recruiter 

Q: Tell us about Clearpoint as a company and your role here.

A: Well, I knew when I interviewed with the Clearpoint team that this was a different kind of company, something special that you just don't see very often. I started here in a part-time administrative role and was quickly offered an opportunity to learn recruiting. I jumped on that opportunity and have been recruiting about 2 years now.

Q: What is the most rewarding job opening you've ever worked on?

A: I can't pinpoint one role, but I can tell you that I just love finding the diamond in the rough, I'm one to "root for the underdog", and love taking them under my wing. I love coaching candidates, giving resume and interviewing advice, and even reminding them to write thank you notes to clients. I really take pleasure in helping people this way.

Q: What is the top advice to job seekers that you give most often?

A: First, a lot of people don't understand the value of social networking, most importantly LinkedIn. Many don't bother filling out their profiles completely including adding pictures, work experience, etc. and it's so important. Many don't understand the importance of and how to use keywords on their resume. Second, experience has shown me never to assume that candidates how to dress for an interview. Lastly, candidates must interview the hiring company as well and be prepared to ask them questions too during the interview process. I coach a lot on these subjects.

Q: What do you think is the biggest misconception about the recruiting industry?

A: I think it's that we always have the ear of the client 100% of the time. Although we do have great relationships with our clients, sometimes clients just don't give us timely or constructive feedback for candidates. People put their hope in me, and when I can't give them feedback on the status of the interview opportunity it's really hard for me.

Q: What trends have you noticed for hiring in 2013?

A: We've placed a lot of HSE (Health Safety & Environment), Supply Chain, Risk Analysts, Business Analysts, and HR (Human Resources) professionals this year.

Q: Do you have any end of year predictions for hiring trends?

A: Yes, I'm already ramping up for a flurry of short term administrative hiring needs. We saw a lot of this last year so I'm in heavy recruiting mode so that I'm ready!

Q: What is something that clients or our contract employees may not know about you?

A: I'm a licensed ACA Kayak instructor. I grew up on the East Coast canoeing and started kayaking 3 years ago. I love nature. I love this area. There is a lot of wildlife to observe in our area. My favorite is Armand Bayou Nature Center, especially the alligator and bird watching. Oh yeah, and I'm getting married next month, yay!

Clearpoint is the staffing partner of choice for many of Houston's top employers. Companies trust us to fill open technology and creative positions with talented professionals because of our successful track record, years of experience, and extensive network of amazing talent.www.clearpointco.com

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