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Interview with a Recruiter, Debbie Cantin, Charles F. Day & Associates

Debbie, Tell us about yourself

I have been with the company for almost four years in December. I am an Air Force Veteran so I understand the challenges individuals face transitioning from the military to the private sector.  I started with Charles F. Day & Associates, LLC (CFDay) as a Business Development Specialist. After two years, I was promoted to a Senior Technical Recruiter. A year later, I became a Human Resources Generalist. My current job encompasses the full scope of Human Resources with a specialty in full-cycle recruiting. One of my primary roles is locating viable candidates for contingent contract work. If we win the contract, we move forward with staffing the positions and bringing them onto our payroll.  I enjoy being able to support our nation and help veterans find employment!

What do job seekers need to know about your job as a recruiter?         

I like to establish a nice rapport with all my candidates. I have found that being transparent and honest with them is certainly the best practice.  My advice to candidates is to have a well-written resume and do your research.  One of my pet peeves is candidates who apply to jobs when they are clearly unqualified. This is a complete waste of my time and theirs.  We are a small business government contractor bidding on government contracts that often require proof of education and job qualifications.  Since this is the case, we often ask our candidates for copies of degrees/certifications and DD214.

Why do I want to work for Charles F. Day

CFDay is a family-oriented company.  The owners really care about their employees. The company makes a large contribution towards Medical, Dental and Vision employee premiums.  We offer a full benefits package for all full-time employees.  This package includes paid vacation, personal time, holiday pay, Short Term/Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance up to $50,000, at no cost to the employee. There is also a 401(k) plan with discretionary employer matching up to 5%.

Our company has grown from a small business to almost 100 employees. We are looking to double our workforce in the coming year. CFDay made the INC 5000 list of the fastest growing small businesses in the country!  Our Human Resources department moves swiftly when it comes to hiring. Our average turnaround time is 10 days. The national average is 60 days. Another important factor to consider is that our company climate is comprised of 80% veterans. Our core values are Character, Competent and Commitment.  Charles F. Day & Associates, LLC employees embody characteristics committed to “Mission First, People Always”.

At what point in their transition should a service member start looking for a job with your company

It depends on the government contract we are bidding on. Most government contracts require Operation Iraqi Freedom /Operation Enduring Freedom deployment experience. Our recruiters use Social Media venues to reach veterans who are separating from the military within 30-60 days. We have found that military veterans have specialized skills and technical skills that are in high demand.

What’s it like for transitioning military to work for your company  

All of our Program Managers are prior military so they understand the transition from military to civilian.

Our Human Resources department works diligently to make this a smooth transition for all New Hires.

What types of cleared positions do you fill?

We specialize in Field Artillery, Logistics, Military Intelligence, Doctrine Writing, and Training.

Check out the Charles F. Day job openings on ClearedJobs.Net.

What type of certifications or training can you recommend for someone looking to get a job with your company?          

Most of our contingent contract positions require Army Basic Instructor Course (ABIC), Program Management Professional (PMP); Military Occupational Specialties (MOS).  Specialized or Professional positions require more advanced degrees in the related field.  Some examples are Software Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Scientists; Chemical Engineers… etc.

What are the toughest security cleared positions for you to fill and why?

Military intelligence positions are definitely the toughest security cleared positions because they require specialized skill sets and education.

What do you see transitioning military doing wrong in their job search?

Transitioning military personnel need to tailor their resume to the position.  If they are applying to a government contractor, their resume should list all relevant military training and experience. Resumes should not contain a picture or list their age.  Recruiters do not want to know a candidates age or personal history. It is irrelevant to the job qualifications.

Also we see so many transitioning military sending a resume and saying, “I am great and I will do anything”. There is no mention of which job they are seeking.  Cover letters should be used as a marketing tool that encourages recruiters to find out more.  Recruiters want to know what have you accomplished?  Tell me more about your salary requirements. Do you want to relocate? What is your location preference?

What’s the craziest thing a job seeker has ever said to you?

“I’ll take the job, if you hire my wife”.  I think this comment leaves room for thought.