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, Archives, Public libraries, and Special libraries, at entry level. Here is how this person describes his or her internship/volunteering experience:
I volunteered for a few months with the Internet Public Library. I am now working for an online answering service, but the pay is very low.
This job hunter is in a rural area in the Northeastern US, and is willing to move:
possibly in the future
What are the top three things you’re looking for in a job?
flexibility, benefits, entry-level
Where do you look for open positions?
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 will update my resume for the specific position and write a cover letter. I spend about an hour on it.
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
√ 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
√ Meeting with HR to talk about benefits/salary
What do you think employers should do to get the best candidates to apply?
list salary and benefits up front, show a sense of humor
What do you think is the secret to getting hired?
It seems to be having years of experience.
This survey was co-authored by Naomi House from I Need A Library Job – Do you need one? Check it out!
Hiring Librarians 