Company Name: The Computer Merchant, Ltd.
Company Focus: The Computer Merchant Ltd. (TCM) provides IT solution and enterprise staffing services to Fortune 1000 and mid to small-sized corporations, as well as Federal, state, and local governments. Its proactive centralized recruiting approach and business model has created a state-of-the-art pool of over 300,000 IT and engineering technologists ready for assignment to provide software consulting, application development, desktop/infrastructure, project management and staff augmentation services. Last year, TCM placed 10,480 consultants within the United States.
Headquarters: Norwell, Massachusetts
Office Locations: Norwell, MA and New York, NY
Web Site: www.TCML.com
Founded: April, 1980
Number Of IT Employees: 12,000 consultants were put to work in 2006
Hiring Leaders: John R. Danieli, president/CEO, has been active in the information systems field since 1965. He founded TCM in 1980 to serve the temporary IT and IS staffing needs of businesses and government. Prior to forming TCM, Danieli worked in on-line systems development at IBM Corporation and Howard Johnson, functioning as a systems programmer, database administrator and manager at various levels. He began his career in data processing while in the U.S. Marine Corps and holds a B.A. from Pace University.
Are you looking to hire on more IT staff this year, and if so, how many and in what skill areas?
Yes. We plan to hire IT consultants with varying skill sets including software engineering, infrastructure and desktop, ERP (Peoplesoft, SAP Oracle), business analysis, project management to work in many industries, i.e., healthcare, manufacturing, government, etc.
Given all the news about the talent crunch, have you or are you finding it more difficult to find qualified IT professionals?
Yes, finding talented individuals it becoming increasingly difficult, as many things have changed within the industry. Testing, drug and background checks are becoming mandatory and skill requirements are more specific than before. Companies are hiring with a "try before we buy" approach, which has become pretty common. The market has really heated up. Skill sets in demand and/or scarce: ERP, SAP, Oracle, Peoplesoft, Java, J2EE, etc. and business analysts with specific industry background.
What are your primary recruiting strategies?
We continually build upon an internal recruiting database that has been built over 20 years and embrace new technology in which to recruit on. Yes, we do post online on job boards, however we have a large internal recruiting department and our own extensive database to work from.
What is the hiring process?
Phone screening is to be done prior to setting up our first in-person interview to determine if they are qualified for the job. Additional interviews, drug and background checks for our client are conducted and are contingent upon client needs. Today testing, reference checks, drug and background checks, I-9 eligibility, etc. must all be done for clients as part of the process.
What should candidates know before they interview at your company?
An understanding of the client/company goals and objectives, the job description and requirements, the people and environment and what is expected of them. When possible, a "play book" outlining what to expect and what is expected and keys to success and execution is provided and proves helpful.
What makes for an outstanding potential hire?
No one person has the perfect skill set. A perfect candidate is determined by their attitude, their willingness to learn and the ability to be fast on their feet. They must take initiative and posses a "can do" attitude.
What are red flags you look for when reviewing resumes, doing interviews?
So many resumes contain misinformation or serve as "wish lists." One on one interviews allow us to evaluate presentation, good eye contact as well as the ability to answer tough questions under pressure and being prepared.
What kind of non-IT skills do your IT team members need, if any?
Good writing and communication skills with the ability to be accountable for their actions. Understanding the client/ company needs and objectives. Knowledge is power.
How important is the cover letter in job queries?
Be honest and straightforward, take initiative and be proactive. Keep the cover letter short and, but be positive to get their attention.
Is the IT organization looking for certified skills, is that a must have or is there any other qualification that is a must have?
Today certified is very much a plus and testing is becoming more and more mandated. Being well prepared for the job is key.
Does the organization hire 'newbies' and invest in training and how well does that work, and if not, why not?
It depends on what a "newbie" is. If he/she obtained skills from a strong, technical university, then they should be quick learners, more so if placed in the right environment. Ultimately this person must have the drive and desire to work and willingness to learn. Training is important, but in this industry where skill requirements and technology are constantly changing, on the job training is more effective.
What characteristics or personality traits do you want in a hire, and don't want?
Reliable/on time, willingness to work extra hours if necessary and be able to work in a team environment. One who takes the initiative to seek answers and displays professionalism in both work habits and proper work attire. We don't want to hire anyone who is disorganized, unprofessional (arrives late) and has poor communication skills.
What does your company offer IT specialists as an employer?
TCM offers a variety of opportunities throughout the country and internationally. Our extensive database of possible candidates allows us to be selective, providing the best possible candidate. We offer top pay, a full range of benefits and an impressive listing of Fortune 500 clients that Consultants are eager to work with.
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