Recruiters will be a huge part of your job search. I know most of you wish you could join some kind of secret society allowing direct contact to hiring managers. Well, some believe LinkedIn is that answer, however even if you think you can reach out to them through this network, which I would still encourage you, just know that they will refer you to a recruiter to do the first contact. Of course it is possible to have unrealistic expectations about the response you will receive and fail to fully understand the recruiter’s responsibilities to our company. Below are some tips that might help you maximize your chances of connecting to recruiters:
Referrals – Ask your friends and colleagues for recruiter referrals. If they have dealt successfully with a recruiter in their job search, it would be an easier way for you to be noticed! Recruiters value referrals and hold that close to their success. Be sure to mention the person who provided the referral, so we can thank them as part of a successful network!
Who is paying the recruiter – When connecting with a corporate recruiter remember they’re not working for you. Sounds harsh, I know, but it’s true. The recruiter is working for the company seeking to fill a job position, so expect them to focus on the company’s needs rather than your needs, but a quality recruiter will respect your efforts.
Details – Focus on recruiters who specialize in your field or profession. They are likely to have positions to share with you and their expertise means they are better able to recognize the quality of your qualifications. However, don’t give up if one door shuts, there will be another door that opens and maintaining a professional relationship with the recruiter is your door!
When the Recruiter Reaches Out
A recruiter will contact you eventually. It’s how you handle that contact that can be critical. Some tips to keep in mind when a corporate recruiter comes a calling:
Accept their call – Take the call even if you are ecstatic in your current job. Never hurts to hear about other opportunities in the current marketplace and, yes, you should establish a positive relationship with the recruiter if you are ever in the job seeking position.
Be discreet – Most recruiters will not come right out and ask if you are interested in a potential position. Rather, they will provide some brief information and ask if you know anyone who might be interested. Be polite and ask for more information, which will usually be provided somewhere outside of your current office environment.
Look to the future – If a recruiter contacts you it is a good sign that you are viewed as a good performer and a desirable employee. Treat every conversation with a recruiter as a form of job interview, as the recruiter will be assessing you throughout the discussion. Even if you ultimately decide not to pursue the position, you will have established a positive relationship that will likely benefit you in the future.