We received many great questions last Friday. Here is a recap from our “Ask The Recruiter II” event!

Q: How do I look for an intern/project/consulting job instead of a full-time job since getting a full-time job is so difficult in this economy?

A: Many of the job boards are a great place to look.  Dice,  Monster and CareerBuilder are great starting points.  Recently sites such as  Indeed and SimplyHired, which pull from corporate websites AND job boards, are more robust and allow you to sort open positions by type: contract, permanent, etc.  Also, if you are working with a recruiter, let them know you are open to (or prefer) contract positions.

Q: If you have not contacted a Recruiter in a long time what is a good way to get back in touch?

A: A friendly and professional email is always appropriate. Let them know that you are still in the market for a new position, and would be open to a variety of roles. If the recruiting firm lists their jobs on their website you may want to search their open positions and follow up with your recruiter regarding a suitable role.

Q: When asked “What is your biggest weakness?” in an interview, what would be a good response?

A: It is always best to be honest with your potential employer, but you do want to manage your answer to the question. I would cite an area for improvement in the interview, but then also mention that you are continuously working to be better at it. Also try not to select an area that may turn the employer off to you.

Q: There are a lot of advertisements on LinkedIn for Resume writers and interview coaches. Is this really worth the money?

A: Having a good resume is a must, but a lot of times the recruiting company you work with will assist you at no cost. If you are not working with a recruiter a resume writer is a good start.  I would review 2-3 and pick the most economical choice since they all offer pretty much the same service.

Q: Besides CareerBuilder and Monster, what are other websites where I can Search for a job?

A: Indeed and SimplyHired can be good resources. We’ve also seen more firms posting open positions on LinkedIn. I would search the “job” section of LinkedIn user groups to search for available jobs.  Also, researching firms you are interested in and applying directly to their website is always a good way to go.

Q: What social networking sites are the best to find financial jobs? Would you suggest making two profiles: one personal, one professional?

A: LinkedIn is a great place. I would suggest joining industry specific user groups, and connecting with group members to build a network. Facebook has some good networking groups as well that are industry specific. Making two profiles is an option, but your potential employer may stumble upon your personal one instead of your professional. Making your Facebook profile unsearchable is a good way to control what you let a potential employer see during a job search.

Q: How can I translate my insurance industry experience over to financial trading? Both areas test complex systems.

A: I would try to make any parallel experience very apparent on your resume. Tailor each application to the specific role for which you are applying.

Q: Does the job market really slow down during the holidays?

A: No.  Most employers want to start the new year fully staffed and often are given the go ahead to make hires in December.  I would highly recommend making your job search a priority even during the holiday season.

Q: What is the best way I can negotiate additional/better benefits during an interview?

A: It can be tricky. It’s important to know all the details of your current package prior to going into the negotiation. After comparing your current package to the new offer, discuss with your employer what a fair middle ground is for both parties.

Q: I am experienced in C++ and Java and most recently have work with web languages like PHP and HTML. What would you suggest I do to get reacquainted with C++ and Java and land an IT position?

A: I’d suggest taking a BrainBench exam once you are back in the swing of it. If you can produce some high marks it may dispel any doubts potential employers may have about your skill level since you have been away from C++/Java for a bit.