I am fortunate enough to work in a field for which there is a lot of demand out there. I get multiple emails every day from companies asking for help with their server side Java projects. Java developers such as myself
1. Don't call your position "an opportunity"
Like I mentined in the intro, I get tons of "opportunities" every day via email or LinkedIn messages. Java projects are a dime a dozen, chances are your project is not a "great opportunity" for me. You know and I know that Java developers are hard to find, if anything, me agreeing to work on your project is an opportunity for you, and not for me.
2. Don't say you have an "urgent requirement"
You may urgently need a Java developer, and I'm here drowning in emails from recruiters that also need Java developers. It may be urgent for you to fill that position, but it is not urgent for me to accept it. While we are on the topic, don't say the requirement is urgent if you are not willing to be flexible. One perk that would certainly catch my attention would be the ability to work remotely, but very few customers are open to the possiblity. If your requirement is so urgent, shouldn't you be a bit more flexible? Oh, and by the way, no, I am not willing to relocate just so that I can work on a 6 month project.
3. I don't stay on the market too long.
I work as a consultant on a C2C basis, therefore I switch projects every few months. Every time I post my resume on one of the job boards, I get bombarded with calls and emails from recruiters (even more so than when I'm not actively looking).
If you are interested in my services, you have to move fast, chances are that in a week or less I won't be in the market anymore.
4. Don't make me jump through hoops
I've written several books on Java, taught Java classes and been a speaker at Java conferences, as well as having about 18 years of experience. I think my experience speaks for itself. Please don't make me go through several rounds of interviews or take a silly test just so that I can work on your project. Just by talking to one of your developers he or she will be able to tell that I know what I'm talking about.
5. If I accept/am about to accept another project, don't ask me to "wait a few days"
As much as I get contacted by recruiters for several different positions, it is mentally exhausting and draining to talk to several potential clients, send resumes, etc. I just want to get it over with, so as soon as I get an offer, I'm taking it.
