The SearchLogix Group - International Management Recruiters specializing in Executive Job Search Placement

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SearchLogix Group - located in the Atlanta, Georgia area

...A Veteran Owned Business


The SearchLogix Group
2950 Cherokee Street
Building 900
Kennesaw, GA 30144
Tel: 770-517-2660
info@
searchlogixgroup.com


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Ask a Recruiter

Frequently Asked Questions


Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

Question: Could you provide a list of questions that a job seeker should ask prospective recruiters in order to evaluate whether or not to use their services?

Answer: We always recommend using referrals from colleagues. Past performance is the best indicator of future behavior. If you want to branch out to improve your networking here are a couple of questions to ask:

• Check out the company website?
• How long have you been a recruiter?
• How do you work? (explain the process)
• Do you send resumes out to clients first, or do you get approval from the candidates first?

Make sure the recruiter has spent enough time getting to know you first before submitting your resume. Does he discuss relocation factors with you? Does he want to know about you and your family? Has he covered your salary requirements, and he knows what type of positions that you might be interested in interviewing for? Most importantly, do you have good chemistry with the recruiter?

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Question: What career services do you offer to help me in my job search?

Response: Our Account Executives and Researchers are continually out looking for jobs even when you are not! Our highly trained staff is in contact with hiring authorities on a daily basis finding out exactly what they are looking for in candidates. We are then able to relay that information to you. Using that gained knowledge helps us to provide you with resume tips, interviewing preparation, interviewing etiquette, proper interviewing follow-up, and ways to market yourself so that you stand out in today's candidate abundant market.

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Question: I want to differentiate my background from thousands of other supply chain applicants. What is the best way for me to do this?

Answer: When presenting your resume, we recommend dates, titles, and utilizing bullet points stating accomplishments. It is most helpful if these bullet points use quantifiable data (numbers) - percentages, size of facilities in square footage and units produced, number of SKU's handled, dollars made and/or saved, number of people supervised, etc. This information gives hiring authorities a quick summary of a candidate's history - without having to read the entire resume.

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Question: How do I answer the salary question when asked what my salary was, how much would I accept and what my target is?

Answer: That is a very important subject in the interview process, but it doesn't have to be intimidating. We coach candidates to answer honestly the question of salary. A hiring authority may ask for W2's or may be working with a recruiter. A hiring authority working with a recruiter has undoubtedly discussed the candidate's current salary. Honesty is always the best policy. If asked, "What compensation are you looking for in your next opportunity," we coach candidates to say the following: “If I am the candidate selected, I am sure the offer would be fair.”

This answer neither sells the candidate short nor knocks the candidate out of contention. Another answer may be required depending on where the candidate is in the interview process.

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Question: Does your firm conduct retained or contingency searches?

Answer: Most searches require a "retainer " or "engagement fee".... Although we do a fair amount of business in the contingency world.

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Question: I was recently laid off and went to a search firm regarding employment opportunities. I was quoted a service charge of $5,000 and want to know if this is reasonable. Do you believe I can find a career opportunity without paying this search fee?

Answer: NEVER, NEVER, EVER pay a firm to assist you with a job search. They will teach you basically "how to" find a job. They might rewrite your resume, have some classes on networking, and be an ear to listen. They always get the call from a candidate that just got the job while you are in the room. Always screen employee or employer based firms. Take advantage of networking groups, the internet, and making looking for a new career a job.

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Question: What is the best way for me to get a hiring authority’s attention for a logistics position? I have seven years in logistics and technology but are there certain buzz words they look for?

Answer: Logistics, Global Supply Chain, technology applications, automation, pick to light, rapistan conveyor systems, GPS, satellite communication, RF Systems, warehousing, transportation optimization, TMS, WMS, six sigma, lean manufacturing, marquee companies, fortune 100 companies, actual numbers around numbers of employees managed, cost containment results, growth numbers, carrier contract negotiations, Multi-facility management/responsibility, designed/implemented new, multi-locations, implemented new systems.

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Question: I see that you are management recruiters located in the Atlanta, Georgia area and are one of the top job search sites on the internet. Do you only offer job opportunities in Atlanta, Georgia?

Answer: Although we do offer job opportunities in Atlanta, Georgia - we also offer international job opportunities and job opportunities in Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine- Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. We are one of the top job search sites on the internet. Check out our current database of job opportunities.

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Question: What type of services do you offer to help get into small (public or private) companies in the Atlanta area. I understand there is a database of executives in the Atlanta area that is used to focus resume searches. Is this something you have access to?

Answer: There is no "Executive Database." Companies can buy access to website sites or databases. If you want to make a career change here are some ideas for you:

• Use your network, 70% of all jobs are landed via personal network
• Update your resume, and sell your "FAB." Features and Benefits
• You can buy books or surf the net to get a company contact, then market yourself to them
• Have your resume on file with a couple of search firms, and they will contact you with potential matches

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Question: You state that SearchLogix Group is an executive job search company that functions as international management recruiters. What kinds of management jobs do you offer? What kinds of jobs do you offer as executive recruiters?

Answer: As international management recruiters, we offer management jobs such as - project management jobs, logistics transportation management jobs, data warehouse management jobs, call center management jobs, global supply chain management jobs, logistics management jobs, telecommunications management jobs, logistics operation management jobs, medical device management jobs, retail management jobs, and materials management jobs.

As executive recruiters, we've recently made placements for the following job positions: Director of logistics for national leader in telecommunications products, senior engineering manager for global medical device manufacturer, software architect for logistics software developer, regional contact center manager who manages multiple, nationwide call centers, distribution center manager over 1+million sq. ft facility plus 5 remote locations and strategic planning manager for global electronics manufacturer.

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Question: With the downturn in the economy, have companies changed their relocation policies and practices?

Answer: Prior to the downturn, relocation policies have been reduced because of cost. Relocation for current employees has also required a "pay back" clause. Companies are trying to stay out of the moving business. Companies have a "relocation assistance."

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Question: I'm looking for international headhunters that can offer me a logistics management job in the USA. Can you help me?

Answer: Although some companies in our field are known as international 'headhunters' - we prefer to refer to our services as 'executive job placements' or “executive career counselors.” . The term "headhunters" doesn't encompass all of the value-added services that we are able to offer our clients. We can offer a logistics management job in the USA as well as abroad.

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Question: Are there certain resumes that really catch your eye when trying to find just the right candidate in telecommunications?

Answer: Specifically outline what the experience gained at each employer was
-- Call center
-- Voice over IP (VOIP), convergence, PBX sales
-- Carrier sales
Have they sold hardware and software or just services
Average total dollar impact of services/products sold
LOCATION location location (not many telecom companies are relocating new employees that we are aware of)

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Question: My background is heavy in sales but I would like a position in operations. Would you consider me for operations positions?

Answer: Each search assignment in unique with respect to client's requirements. There are often situations where a sales background is a valuable ingredient in an operations position.

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Question: What title and or position should I be pursuing with my Director of Sales title? I am very interested in the global logistics / shipping business due to the fact the in my business of electronics manufacturing I am seeing a huge outflow of OEM manufacturing jobs to Asia and I would like to be a part of that growing business for setting up logistics plans and custom shipping requirement.

Answer: It is a very interesting question that you have asked and we are not sure we are going to provide the answer you may be looking for, but we will be honest. First you are correct, supply chain and logistics are playing a much larger role in organizations today as opposed to the last ten years or so. Supply chain truly is being thought of as a competitive advantage in today’s marketplace.

You have what seems to be a very impressive sales background and one that has probably been very rewarding financially. We have to assume that your average W2 in the medical device space has been $150,000-$200,000+. Our first question would be why you were interested in moving out of that space. If you were to break into supply chain, you would more than likely take a huge hit.

Since supply chain is really being thought of in a strategic manner and is providing a competitive advantage to firms that manage it correctly, it is tough to get any type of manager or senior level role without direct experience in logistics, purchasing, planning, distribution, etc. We would imagine your best bet would obviously be to focus on the medical device vertical since you know how the space operates. As far as a title, we don’t think you should or can focus on that. Focus on what seems to be a good opportunity and do your best to match your qualifications as a sales professional with the qualifications mentioned in a job description.

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Question: During the 1980's I completed a significant number of hours toward achieving an MBA. Although I did not complete it, should I list it or make any mention of it on a resume?

Answer: No, you should not list coursework not completed. The rationale we use is your resume is a snapshot of past accomplishments that predict future behavior. We use your resume to present to future employers what you will bring to their organization - potential bottom line results, pattern of management, timeline of achievements, etc.

We think partially completed work on a resume takes up valuable space which could be used to add one more bullet point of accomplishment, one more "number" you achieved, one more idea you generated and implemented. We tend to use "at first glance" critique of resumes -- what stands out when one just glances at the resume for a few seconds that is meaningful to a future client as to your contribution to their company. Partially completed schoolwork is not what you want them to remember.

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Question: I am a 24 year veteran of the telecommunications and financial industries and specialize in voice and data strategic planning & network design. Due to a reorganization, I must decide to take an offered special assignment or a RIF package. My question: Which position is stronger when seeking employment? "Unemployed" due to RIF or performing a role that isn't in line with my career objectives?

Answer: Sorry for the unfortunate upheaval in your professional career. Remember: Change is always better and will work out no matter which road you take. You've worked hard to establish a solid career which will help carry you to your next best career enhancing opportunity.

You asked for our opinion. Our opinion is there is NO categorically better option between cut your losses and run, or stay and bear it out to see what a new opportunity within your organization will bring. Your goals, career aspirations and motivation drive that decision. . We can say the grass always looks greener on the other side and rarely is, which to us indicates maybe you should stay where you are, take the new challenge and see what it offers. While you work things out, you might want to look for a better opportunity but we wouldn't give up current employment to look for a better position unless the current company made us a financial offer we couldn't refuse to leave.

We would strongly suggest you develop a resume. Please email us with this resume. We will put you in the database and should an opportunity arise that looks promising for your career, we will contact you to discuss. We do NOT send your information anywhere without discussing the specific opportunity first.

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Question: What would you suggest about a career change from applications support to technical sales? How would I go about changing careers? It seems like it would be a logical step since I have the ability to learn software applications quickly and demonstrate them as needed (or in the selling world, show the features, advantages and benefits). Any information would be appreciated.

Answer: Solid Question. First, we hear that all the time about changing careers, or moving into sales. Historically, a post sales / support person shows some selling traits (ability to be comfortable in front of executives during presentations, some charisma, and the ability to provide a solution), which then leads to an inside sales or pre-sales role. Basically demo the software with ease. Then hopefully through networking, someone will give you a chance to "prove yourself" in a sales role.

We highly recommend reading "Crossing the Chasm" and other sales books which can be found on our website.

The keys to being a successful salesperson is the ability to get to the decision makers, identifying a need, and then providing them with a solution. Also the ability to handle tremendous rejection, and knowing when to get out of a bad deal. "No pain, No gain."

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Question: I'm currently going to DeVry to finish my BSBA, Sales & Marketing. I've been in the car business for 10 years, and would like to change careers. How can I go about doing that? I've applied for jobs, but don't get much response from my initial inquiries, and emails. Are you equipped to help career-changers who have experience, but no degree? I'm willing to do whatever it takes to make the move.

Answer: You have certainly asked a very good question. Changing careers is never easy and will probably take a lot of persistence on your part. What you really need to do is go back, think about the 10 years experience you have in the car business and try to draw some tangible similarities between your experiences in the car business with what you would like to do next. For instance, if you had P&L responsibility in the car business, you are probably qualified to handle P&L responsibilities in another field.

The other thing is that you really need to be prepared to start at the bottom again. Even though you have 10 years experience in another industry, there probably are not going to be too many pieces of a new business you will know well on day one. However, your 10 years in another function will quickly catch up with you and we would assume you could move up relatively quickly once you learned the ins and outs of a new industry.

Quite honestly, The SearchLogix Group may not be the best firm to help you make a change. We are really heavily involved in senior level supply chain roles. That being said, we will take a look at your resume and keep it on file in the event something comes along that you are a potential match for. Good luck with school and your search for a new career. Stay positive and do as much networking as you possibly can!

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Question: I am currently in the retail management field. I have worked with distribution and loved it. I am looking to do something that I love. I have been looking and I am not sure what supply chain is. It sounds like something that I would love to do. I do not have the degree that has been asked for but after seeing your article that is why I am writing. Can we talk?

Answer: We received your Ask a Recruiter inquiry and just wanted to touch on it briefly in an email. Please feel free to call anytime and we can discuss it further if you’d like.

Supply Chain is a network of facilities and distribution options that perform the functions of procurement of materials; transformation of these materials into intermediate and finished products; and distribution of these finished products to customers. This is a very minimal description of course. It can get quite complicated! It is very interesting to see the new advances and technology that come out to improve on all the functions involved.

Our advice to you would be to stay in the direction you have started, distribution. This is a very large piece in Supply Chain. Never turn down an opportunity to take a training class or get a certification that would help you get to know more about the Supply Chain and how it works. Distribution people very often slide into a Supply Chain Management role very nicely.

We’re not trying to sell anything here but “we” thoroughly enjoy a magazine called “Global Logistics & Supply Chain Strategies”. You may want to check it out. Every little thing helps.

Best of luck to you! Send up a copy of your resume as well. We’d love the opportunity to help you out.

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Question: Interview question asked by HR manager in an interview for a sales management position: "Where would you spend your time as a sales manager, with the high performing sales reps, the mid level performers or the lagging performers?" I’m interested in what is really the "best" answer. Thanks!

ANSWER: Leave Top Performers ALONE. Unfortunately you need to manage the “lagging performers.” You need to see if you can manage them into success, or decide when to “cut and hire “A” players. The key is to constantly be Top Grading your sales force. Keep everyone on their toes; also prevent being caught off guard by a sales person leaving.

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Question: I am a 45 year old executive with a rich and successful career history. Two years ago, due to circumstances that I could not control, I was forced to take a position beneath my skill level and previous salary level. I have limited opportunities to improve my position at this employer. What is most effective method for making my presence and availability known in the Atlanta market without negatively affecting my present position?

Answer: Thanks for your recent "Ask a Recruiter" inquiry. You asked for our opinion on the best way to handle a confidential search which allows you the opportunity to regain what you’ve lost over the last 2 years.

Our opinion is that you took advantage of the best career prospect the market had to offer at the time. You made a good decision and have gained additional insight/experience which will benefit future employers. You now bring more of what hiring authorities are looking for to advance their company objectives. You are now looking for greater challenges and career opportunities.

Limited potential with your current employer and a need for confidentiality sounds like why you need to stay close to good recruiters like The SearchLogix Group. For example, all of our searches stay confidential until you make the decision to go public. All of our searches must equally benefit the candidate and clients or we don’t make the placement. Searching for new career enhancing opportunities is not an easy task. It helps to put a professional on your team to help you through the process.

Our suggestion is to update your resume, send it to us and then occasionally browse our web site to ensure we don’t overlook an opportunity you might want to discuss.

Hope this is helpful. Thanks again for considering The SearchLogix Group.

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Question: I’m a former Logistics / Materials Manager currently in Healthcare and hating it. I’m looking to return to the Supply Chain / Logistics field. APICS will offer a certification in Supply Chain Management in the Fall. Kennesaw State will offer a 10 week Logistics Certification program as well. Is there any enhanced value to the candidate to work toward these certifications, or does it matter to the hiring manager at all?

Answer: THANKS for asking! Our experience is hiring authorities look at:

  • Work Experience that is directly related to the role they are hiring for. “Show me” that you’ve done this before and could excel doing it again at my company.
  • Absolute bare minimum necessity requirements (i.e. degree, 3 yrs experience, direct supervision of 5 or more candidates, location, etc)
  • Salary level
  • Outside indicators of being able to exceed expectations. Examples include the specialty courses you are considering taking

Is it worth the money? That has to be your call. What are you going to do differently with the information taught? Certifications are very helpful but it is a little like assuming all college graduates are therefore equipped to performance identically. They’re not. It’s what you bring the hiring authority’s table and can back up your claims for expected superior performance.

By the way, let us help. Please send your resume. Let’s see if The SearchLogix Group might be working on something you might want to consider.

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Question: I am considering a move from Jacksonville, Florida to New York City. I have never had to relocate for a position before, and it would be with a new company. What kind of benefits / allowances / assistance should I require (moving, some of kind "safety net" or "buy out" as part of the contract should the position not be all that it was promised to be, etc.). I have never had to move for a job before, and this would be a drastic step. Also, I am used to making a $35,000 base + about $20,000 to $25,000 in bonuses annually. How would this translate to living in Manhattan?

Answer: You have asked a couple of good questions and you really need to consider both of them thoroughly before you make a move. To answer the question in regards to compensation, take the following steps and you can determine what your salary would need to be in Manhattan to live a comparable lifestyle:

  1. Click on - http://www.searchlogixgroup.com/industry/links.htm
  2. Then click Relocation Services
  3. Then go to Relocation Tools

As far as relocation, packages from company to company are very different. Additionally, packages differ within an organization depending on the level of the position you are going into. The majority of the time for anything that is less than a Sr. Manager role, an organization would pay for the cost of household goods to be packed and shipped. If you are renting, they may provide some assistance to break a lease if there is a fee involved to do so. We have never seen an organization pay realtor fees and closing costs on new homes for positions under the Director level.

As far as a safety net or buy out, it is something you can certainly ask for and potentially negotiate. However, the same usually holds true in regards to level and relocation. An organization is much more likely to put one in place for senior level executives, not very likely lower level positions.

Hope this helps. Good luck in your next career move and feel free to contact The SearchLogix Group should we be of further assistance.

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