This anonymous interview is with a job hunter who is currently employed (even if part-time or in an unrelated field), has not been hired within the last two months, and has been looking for a new position for More than 18 months. This person is looking in Academic libraries, Library vendors/service providers, Public libraries, and Special libraries, at the following levels:Requiring at least two years of experience, Supervisory.
This job hunter is in a city/town in the Western US and is not willing to move.
What are the top three things you’re looking for in a job?
1. Job satisfaction
2. Job security
3. Fair compensation
Where do you look for open positions?
INALJ
SimplyHired
Library websites
various listserves
Do you expect to see salary range listed in a job ad?
√ Yes, and it’s a red flag when it’s not
What’s your routine for preparing an application packet? How much time do you spend on it?
I modify an existing application to fit the job.
Two hours of rereading and revision.
Have you ever stretched the truth, exaggerated, or lied on your resume, or at some other point during the hiring process?
√ No
When would you like employers to contact you?
√ To acknowledge my application
√ To tell me if I have or have not been selected to move on to the interview stage
√ To follow-up after an interview
√ Once the position has been filled, even if it’s not me
How do you prefer to communicate with potential employers?
Which events during the interview/visit are most important to your assessment of the position (i.e. deciding if you want the job)?
√ Tour of facility
√ Meeting department members/potential co-workers
√ Being able to present
What do you think employers should do to get the best candidates to apply?
Not limit hiring to inhouse or interns only.
What should employers do to make the hiring process less painful?
Have applications online.
What do you think is the secret to getting hired?
Being positive.
Doing research about the library.
Knowing someone in the organization.
Sadly…..being young
Do you have any comments, or are there any other questions you think we should add to this survey?
Being able to relocate or travel is very helpful.
This survey was co-authored by Naomi House from I Need A Library Job – Do you need one? Check it out!
