by The Talent Group | Jul 9, 2024
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Description
Our client’s Studio model and interdisciplinary team fuel a unique ability to build impactful, forward-thinking experiences for B2B, fortune 1000 companies. A specialty division of the agency serves pharmaceutical clients looking to build, nurture and/or grow patient communities and drive patient adherence initiatives.
They are seeking a Senior Strategist to join the team. This role will be dedicated to the pharma / healthcare business.
The Senior Strategist will be the go-to person for uncovering insights, and developing briefs, strategies, and frameworks designed to enhance their marketing strategies, elevate the creative work and drive results for their clients. They are looking for someone with experience in a variety of strategic disciplines (brand, product, channel, experience) and omni channel marketing expertise, applying the appropriate focus at the appropriate stage of a project. Sometimes all in one day.
This role requires a minimum of 3 days/week in office in Norwood, MA.
Key Responsibilities
Research and build thinking
- Uncover problems/challenges, in collaboration with the internal team and clients
- Develop points of view and uncover unique opportunities for our teams and clients.
- Leverage research tools and gather/mine data (quant and qual) to uncover client, competition, category or audience proof points
- Lead stakeholder and/or audience interviews including writing questions, crafting discussion guides, moderating and capturing key takeaways, and synthesizing themes
Sell the idea
- Design and facilitate workshops
- Create a compelling narrative to get clients excited about the idea and eager to say yes
- Develop concise briefs, positioning and/or campaign platforms that get to the heart of a compelling insight and power creative concepting
Be inventive and collaborative
- Resourceful in acquiring knowledge in new areas, leveraging client, agency, and external resources
- Collaborates with other strategists and/or cross-functional team members to enhance thinking and strategy (e.g., brainstorming sessions)
- Contribute to and/or own the development and storyline of client presentations
- Leverage Design Thinking frameworks and methodologies to solve problems and guide the focus of our work
- Partner with cross-functional members to ensure the work is clear, inspired, and on strategy
Stay focused on results
- Be the voice of the strategy throughout the project engagement
- Define, in partnership with project team and our clients, desired outcomes (quant and qual) and how those outcomes will be measured
- Provide recommendations to clients to ensure the effectiveness of the work
- Bring attention to and lead post-engagement opportunities (i.e. analytics, opportunity reports, audits, long-term planning recommendations, etc.)
Support ongoing client and agency needs
- Participate in brand planning bi-annually and annually
- Support QBR presentations with Account Leads
- Join new business meetings or pitches, as needed
- Monitor the marketing and pharma industry
- Contribute to trend presentations or other agency thought leadership
- Influence strategy process and train team members, when applicable
Requirements
- Demonstrated agency experience on pharmaceutical accounts (8 years minimum)
- Clear understanding of pharm intricacies (MLR, indications, healthcare ecosystem, etc.)
- Excellent interpersonal and team leadership skills
- Comfortable and efficient in a fast-paced work environment
- Strong attention to detail
- Positive mindset
- Highly curious
Apply Now
by The Talent Group | Jul 8, 2024
In the competitive world of business, attracting top talent is crucial. Companies often employ various strategies to maintain a strong pipeline of potential employees. However, one tactic that is increasingly coming under scrutiny is the use of ghost job postings—advertisements for positions that do not actually exist or are not currently being filled. While it might seem like a harmless way to gauge interest or build a candidate pool, ghost job postings can have several negative consequences for your business. Here’s why they aren’t a good idea.
- Could Damage Company Reputation
Trust is a fundamental aspect of any business relationship, including those with potential employees. When candidates discover that a job posting is not real, they can lose trust in your company. This loss of trust can extend beyond the job seekers directly involved and affect how your company is perceived in the broader market. Disgruntled applicants might share their negative experiences on social media or job review sites, which can damage your company’s reputation and make it harder to attract quality candidates in the future.
- Wastes Valuable Resources
The recruitment process involves significant time and effort from your HR and recruitment teams. Reviewing applications, conducting interviews, and managing candidate communications for non-existent positions diverts resources from filling actual openings. Additionally, applicants invest considerable time and effort into preparing applications and attending interviews. Wasting their time can lead to frustration and a negative view of your company, which is counterproductive in building a positive employer brand.
- Can Mislead Stakeholders
Internal confusion and external misrepresentation are common side effects of ghost job postings. Internally, current employees might be misled about the company’s growth or hiring plans, causing confusion or mistrust within the organization. Externally, misleading potential investors or partners about your company’s expansion plans or workforce needs can have negative long-term effects, as transparency and honesty are valued traits in business relationships.
- Legal and Ethical Concerns
In some jurisdictions, misleading job postings can result in legal consequences. Regulatory bodies might view ghost postings as deceptive practices, leading to potential fines or legal action against your company. Beyond the legal implications, there are ethical considerations. It is generally considered unethical to mislead job seekers, and such practices can affect your company’s ethical standing and corporate social responsibility profile.
- Decreases Candidate Pool Quality
High-quality candidates are often discerning and conduct thorough research before applying for positions. If they feel misled by ghost job postings, they might avoid applying to your company in the future. Additionally, increasing candidate cynicism can lead to skepticism about the legitimacy of your job postings, reducing the overall pool of potential hires. The best candidates want to work for companies they trust and respect, and ghost postings can severely undermine that trust.
- Operational Inefficiency
Resources spent managing ghost job postings could be better utilized in actual recruitment efforts. By focusing on genuine hiring needs, your company can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of its recruitment process. This ensures that efforts are directed towards attracting and securing the best candidates for real positions, rather than wasting time on misleading tactics.
- Creates Market Noise
Ghost postings contribute to clutter on job boards and websites, making it harder for genuine job seekers to find real opportunities. This market noise not only frustrates job seekers but also makes it difficult for employers with genuine openings to reach suitable candidates. A cluttered job market benefits no one and reduces the overall efficiency of the hiring ecosystem.
While ghost job postings might seem like a useful strategy to keep a pulse on the talent market, the negative impacts far outweigh any perceived benefits. Maintaining transparency and genuineness in your job postings is essential for preserving a positive company image, ensuring ethical practices, and fostering trust among current and potential employees. By focusing on honest and transparent recruitment practices, your company can build a strong employer brand and attract the top talent needed for long-term success.
by The Talent Group | Jul 2, 2024
In the hustle and bustle of job searching, it’s easy to overlook small gestures that can leave a lasting impact. One such gesture is writing a “thank you” note after an interview. Regardless of the outcome, taking the time to express gratitude can significantly influence how you are perceived and remembered by potential employers. Here’s why sending a thank you note is so important:
- Demonstrates Professionalism and Courtesy
Sending a thank you note is a simple yet powerful way to demonstrate your professionalism. It shows that you respect the interviewer’s time and effort and that you value the opportunity to discuss your qualifications and fit for the role. This small act of courtesy can set you apart in a competitive job market where first impressions matter.
- Reinforces Your Interest
A thank you note is an excellent opportunity to reiterate your enthusiasm for the position and the company. It allows you to reaffirm your interest and highlight key points from the interview that, not only align with the company’s goals and culture, but yours too. This can help keep you top-of-mind as employers make their final decisions.
- Provides an Opportunity to Clarify or Expand
Sometimes, interviews can be nerve-wracking, and you might feel like you didn’t fully express your thoughts or answer questions as well as you could have. A thank you note gives you a second chance to clarify any points or expand on topics discussed during the interview. This can help ensure that your true potential and capabilities are understood.
- Builds a Positive Relationship
Regardless of whether you get the job, maintaining a positive relationship with the interviewer can be beneficial. The business world is interconnected, and you never know when your paths might cross again. A thoughtful thank you note can leave a lasting positive impression, potentially opening doors for future opportunities.
- Reflects Your Character
Taking the time to write a thank you note reflects your character and work ethic. It shows that you are someone who values gratitude, attention to detail, and follow-through. These are qualities that are highly regarded in any professional setting and can give you an edge over other candidates.
Crafting the Perfect Thank You Note
When writing your thank you note, keep it concise, genuine, and personalized. Mention specific points from the interview, express your continued interest in the role, and thank the interviewer for their time and consideration. Your thank you note should be sent via email for quick delivery, ensuring it reaches the interviewer promptly.
by The Talent Group | Jun 3, 2024
In the digital age, where job hunting can often feel like a series of clicks and keystrokes, the value of a simple conversation can sometimes be overlooked. However, engaging with a recruiter, whether you’re actively seeking new opportunities or just exploring potential career paths, can offer a multitude of benefits that go beyond what a job posting or online application can provide.
First and foremost, speaking with a recruiter allows you to personalize your job search. Rather than relying solely on your resume to speak for you, a conversation gives you the opportunity to highlight your skills, experiences, and career goals in a more dynamic way. This can be especially valuable if you’re transitioning between industries or roles, as it allows you to explain how your background aligns with the position you’re interested in.
Additionally, recruiters often have insider knowledge about the companies they represent. They can provide insights into company culture, team dynamics, and the specific skills and qualities that hiring managers are looking for. This information can help you tailor your application and interview strategy to better fit the organization’s needs, increasing your chances of success.
Talking with a recruiter can also help you navigate the complexities of the job market. Whether it’s understanding industry trends, negotiating salary and benefits, or preparing for interviews, recruiters can offer guidance and support every step of the way. Their expertise can be particularly valuable if you’re new to the job market or if you’re looking to advance your career to the next level.
Furthermore, building a relationship with a recruiter can lead to future opportunities down the line. Even if the current position isn’t the right fit, staying in touch with a recruiter can keep you on their radar for future openings that may be a better match for your skills and interests. Additionally, recruiters often have extensive networks within their industry, so they may be able to connect you with other professionals or opportunities that you wouldn’t have access to otherwise.
While the convenience of online job searching may be tempting, don’t underestimate the power of a face-to-face conversation. Talking with a recruiter can provide personalized insights, guidance, and opportunities that you won’t find anywhere else. So, the next time you’re considering a career move, consider reaching out to a recruiter and starting a conversation—you never know where it might lead.
by The Talent Group | Jun 3, 2024
The rise of remote work has made virtual job interviews a common part of the hiring process. While the format may differ from traditional in-person interviews, the goal remains the same: to impress your potential employer and demonstrate that you are the best candidate for the job. Here are some essential tips to help you stand out in your video interview and make a lasting impression.
Prepare Your Tech and Environment
- Test Your Technology: Before the interview, ensure that your technology is in perfect working order. This includes checking your internet connection, webcam, microphone, and the platform you will be using (Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Skype, etc.). Conduct a test run with a friend or family member to troubleshoot any potential issues.
- Set Up a Professional Space: Choose a quiet, well-lit location for your interview. Make sure the background is clean and uncluttered. A neutral background or a tidy bookshelf can work well. Avoid any distractions, and inform others in your household about the interview to minimize interruptions.
Dress for Success – Professional Attire: Dress as you would for an in-person interview. Wearing professional attire not only makes a good impression but also helps you feel more confident and serious about the interview. Pay attention to details like grooming and accessories to present a polished image.
Master the Basics of Virtual Etiquette
- Eye Contact and Body Language: Maintain eye contact by looking directly into the webcam, not at your screen. This creates a sense of connection with your interviewer. Sit up straight, smile, and use natural hand gestures to convey confidence and enthusiasm.
Minimize Distractions: Turn off notifications on your computer and phone to prevent interruptions. Close unnecessary tabs and apps to ensure your computer runs smoothly during the interview.
Do Your Homework
- Research the Company: Learn about the company’s mission, values, products, and recent news. Understanding the company culture and industry can help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
- Know the Role: Review the job description thoroughly and prepare to discuss how your skills and experiences align with the requirements. Highlight specific examples from your past work that showcase your qualifications.
Prepare Your Responses
- Practice Common Interview Questions: Rehearse answers to common interview questions such as “Tell me about yourself,” “Why do you want to work here?” and “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” Practice out loud to build confidence and refine your delivery.
- Use the STAR Method: For behavioral questions, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. This technique helps you provide clear and concise responses that highlight your problem-solving abilities and achievements. Many companies use this method to assess candidate skills
- Ask Insightful Questions and Engage with Your Interviewer: Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. Inquiring about the team’s dynamics, company culture, and future projects shows your interest in the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.
Follow Up and Send a Thank-You Note: After the interview, send a personalized thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. Mention specific points from the conversation that resonated with you and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role.
Standing out in a virtual job interview requires a combination of preparation, professionalism, and genuine engagement. By ensuring your technology and environment are set up for success, dressing appropriately, mastering virtual etiquette, and preparing thoroughly, you can make a positive impression and increase your chances of landing the job. Good luck!
