Applying For A Job, Getting Picked and Negotiating The Contract
Jun 22, 2023
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Jett Metcalf, a geospatial recruitment specialist, discusses job hunting, standing out from the crowd, and negotiating contracts. They compare working at Google and Descartes Labs, highlight the challenges and advantages of hiring for geospatial roles, emphasize the importance of soft skills in technical positions, and provide insights into compensation negotiation and freelancing opportunities in the industry.
Transparency and respect are crucial during salary negotiations, and it's important to discuss expectations early on and be open about negotiable aspects of the offer.
Understanding the hiring differences between large established companies and smaller startups is essential, as each has different expectations and opportunities.
Negotiations go beyond salary and can include items like equity, bonus structures, and benefits. Asking about negotiable aspects early in the process is advised.
Deep dives
Importance of Transparency and Communication in Salary Negotiation
In the podcast episode, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being transparent and respectful when negotiating salary. They recommend discussing salary expectations early on in the process and being open about what aspects of the offer are negotiable. This helps build a partnership with the recruiter and ensures a better outcome for both parties. It is also important to consider the company's perspective and be mindful of not pushing negotiations too far or coming across as entitled, as it could strain the relationship.
Flexibility in Hiring for Different Company Sizes
The podcast episode discusses the differences in hiring for large established companies versus smaller startups. While larger companies may have more resources and tolerance for hiring diverse skill sets, smaller companies often require filling positions quickly. The speaker highlights the importance of understanding the context and expectations of each company, as well as valuing the opportunity beyond just the salary. They also mention the benefits of considering a composite approach, where candidates gain experience from both small and large companies.
Negotiating Beyond Salary
The speaker points out that negotiation is not limited to salary, but can also include other aspects of the offer. Candidates can inquire about negotiable items such as equity, bonus structures, and benefits. It is advised to ask about negotiable aspects before reaching the final interview or on-site visit, ensuring that the negotiation is done respectfully and with transparency. Being aware of the market value and valuing soft skills during negotiation is also important.
Transitioning from Academia to the Private Sector
The podcast episode explores the transition from academia to the private sector, highlighting that soft skills and a customer-focused mindset are valued in addition to technical expertise. It is recommended for academics to present translatable skill sets and emphasize their interest in tangible customer impact when seeking industry opportunities. Flexibility in considering opportunities at smaller companies and understanding the pace and culture differences between academia and industry are also mentioned.
Navigating Negotiation Challenges and Avoiding Burned Bridges
In the podcast episode, the speaker discusses the challenges and potential pitfalls in negotiations. They advise candidates to approach negotiations carefully, respecting the company's position and being transparent about compensation expectations. Stories of negotiation gone wrong are mentioned, including extensive back-and-forth negotiations that strained relationships and situations where offers were rescinded. The speaker stresses the importance of respectful negotiation and being aware of the expectations set by negotiation levels and skill sets.
You guessed it this episode is all about recruitment!
Who is this episode for? Well if you have a career in geospatial … it's for you!
Getting the job you want, changing your career path, or deciding whether to work at a start-up or a more established company. Once you have made these decisions, how do you stand out from the crowd? What is it the recruiters are looking for? And if you do get offered a contract should you negotiate and what is negotiable?
Jett Metcalf has worked as a geospatial recruitment specialist for a few well-known companies like Google, Descartes Labs and is currently the Head of Talent at Regrow Ag. In this episode, he is going to help us understand some of the answers to these questions.