Simply Trade

[ROUNDUP] Trade Recruiting Hacks: Entry-Level to VP with Colleen Erickson

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Host: Annik Sobing

Guest: Colleen, Trade Compliance Recruiting Solutions
Recorded at: ICPA Conference (in-person)
Published: March 2026
Length: ~15 minutes
Presented by: Global Training Center

Trade Jobs Are Exploding—But Here’s How to Actually Land One (Live from ICPA)

Live from ICPA, Annik sits down in-person with recruiting expert Colleen from Trade Compliance Recruiting Solutions—the boutique firm specializing exclusively in trade compliance roles (import/export, brokerage, analyst to VP). They break down the tight talent market, entry-level realities, resume pitfalls, salary trends, and why busy pros aren’t jumping ship lightly. If you’re job hunting, hiring, or just curious about trade career paths—this is your roadmap.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode
  • Entry-level truth
    • Skip certifications first (LCB exam, etc.)—companies want hands-on experienceover credentials.
    • Start anywhere (brokerage, import/export sides) to learn processes, then certify. Passion for global trade > classroom knowledge.
    • Mid-career job search toolkit
      • Free resume reviews from Colleen’s team: ATS-proof keywords, quantifiable achievements, consistent formatting—makes your resume “pop.”
      • They track your skills/location/preferences (remote/hybrid/office) and match future roles—no black-hole applications.
      • Salary & market intel
        • Annual Salary Analysis Report (free on their site/LinkedIn/ICPA): Ranges from specialist to director/VP, based on actual placements.
        • Hiring trends: Companies should streamline (no 6-round interviews for specialists); candidates—avoid emotional jumps.
        • Hot market realities
          • Jobs everywhere—they’re busier than ever, but talent pool is tight (75-day placements vs. prior 60 days).
          • Remote still king; compliance pros too swamped to job hunt actively. Patience pays—define your next role’s challenges/learning.
            • Interview Process Tips
            • Recruiters like hers bypass AI screeners—your vetted resume hits decision-makers directly.
            • Free interview prep: Screening, tips, mock sessions (some pros need the practice).
            • Mentorship for all levels: “Maybe your next step isn’t ready yet—let’s build toward it.”
              • Key Takeaways
              • Leverage networks/conferences like ICPA—build connections beyond job boards.
              • For hirers: Partner with niche recruiters to fill roles faster.
              • For job seekers: Get hands-on > certify; use free tools (resumes, salary data, prep); don’t settle.
              • Trade recruiting is personal—reach out anytime. Market’s hot; something’s out there for everyone.

                • Credits

                Host: Annik Sobing
                Guest: Colleen, Trade Compliance Recruiting Solutions

                Listen & Subscribe

                • Simply Trade main page: https://simplytrade.podbean.com
                • Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-trade/id1640329690
                • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/09m199JO6fuNumbcrHTkGq
                • Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8de7d7fa-38e0-41b2-bad3-b8a3c5dc4cda/simply-trade

                  • Connect with Simply Trade

                  • Podcast page: https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/simply-trade-podcast
                  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/simply-trade-podcast
                  • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SimplyTradePod

                    • Join the Trade Geeks Community

                    • Trade Geeks (by Global Training Center): https://globaltrainingcenter.com/trade-geeks/
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