From Contract’s End to Job Success: How CSS Helped Me

In today’s competitive job market, transitioning from a contract position to a stable job can be frustrating.

When Bill Okinda’s contract was coming to an end, he sought other opportunities, and through CSS linked, he came across the role of Business Development Executive we had advertised for our client in the training industry.

I had a lengthy conversation with him and here is his professional journey, and a few lessons you can pick:

Tell us about yourself.

I am a dedicated professional with a background in business development, digital marketing, web research, photography, and graphic design and diverse experience working in a business process outsourcing (BPO) company and freelance marketplace.

My skill set is focused on proficiently managing social media and creating visually captivating designs using tools and my goal is to drive business growth and enhance brand recognition through captivating marketing initiatives.

How long have you been looking for a job?

For nearly three months. My previous contract was coming to an end where I worked and it forced me to explore other job opportunities.

What has your job search experience been like?

The process initially was tedious but I took a U-turn to enhance my online presence. I enhanced my LinkedIn visibility to showcase my skills and this made the recruiters notice me.

I applied a targeted approach and built a strong professional network that helped me to discover hidden job openings.

Are there any specific challenges you encountered in your job search process?

Limited experience hindered me from applying for some jobs and it reduced my chances of standing out in a pool of other candidates who were experienced in the field.

I lacked knowledge on how to effectively network with potential employers. Interview anxiety was also a challenge because I had never invested in interview coaching services which prevented me from positioning myself as a strong candidate.

Where did you learn about Corporate Staffing and the job opportunity? And would you recommend Corporate Staffing to anyone?

I learned about Corporate Staffing Services through LinkedIn. I would highly recommend anyone looking for a job because the recruitment process is transparent and efficient.

How was the application and interview process?

The application process was straightforward because I only submitted a CV and I was subjected to interviews.

The initial interview at CSS served as a preparation because it gave me insights into the job description and the company’s culture. The final interview with the client was more technical and it focused on the job’s specifics.

Overall, the process was well-organized, efficient, and supportive; it made me comfortable and prepared for the final interview.

Did you think you would get the job?

Not really, I knew there were other candidates, who had extensive more experience than me.

What do you think employers look for or check when selecting suitable candidates?

Employers look for candidates with relevant skills, experience, strong communication skills, and a good cultural fit.

Many professionals continue to look for jobs during this competitive job market. What is your advice to them?

For you to succeed in a competitive job market, expand your professional networks, be updated with the industry trends, and continuously invest in your professional development through learning and certifications.

What do you think is the secret to getting a job in this competitive market?

To thrive in a competitive job market, the secret is to have a professional CV that markets you better and gets you shortlisted. Remember to prepare well for the interviews to increase your chances of succeeding.

If you were to speak to any professional out there, what is one thing you would tell them to do to succeed this 2023?

To succeed in 2023, any professional needs to invest in continuous learning and be adaptable because the job market is constantly evolving.