It's Tuesday, 3:00 p.m. and for some reason, after a month of job searching with no luck, you have been called by 5 different recruiters about a job you are "perfect for".
How do you determine which recruiter is legit? Who really knows the hiring managers? Which recruiter is the best fit?
If you've made the choice to work with a recruiter, here are some tips and suggestions for how to get the most out of the relationship.
Some suggestions to follow when you work with a recruiter:
Research your recruiter and their company. You will want to make sure that you are working with a recruiter who specializes in your field (Management, Information technology, Finance and Accounting, etc.). Also, you will want to make sure they work for a reputable company and are working with the end client directly. Make sure you are working with a good recruiter.
Cynthia Wade, a management recruiter out of St. Charles, IL proposes,
"Interview and choose a recruiter in the same way you would any other professional. A good recruiter will answer your questions and concerns and be willing to provide references."
Be honest. Don't lie about your work history, salary, job search, or personal background. Honesty is essential in building this relationship and attaining the employment opportunity that you are interested in.
Judy Taylor, a Sr. Recruiter based out of Phoenix, Arizona suggests,
"Honesty is the best policy. Be open and share exactly where you have applied, what the results were, how many recruiters you are presently working with. If you have any perceived issues, please divulge them up front so the recruiter can assist in addressing diffusing them. Provide a well rounded group of references so potential employers see an accurate picture of the type of person you are and the strengths you bring to the table in various areas."
Keep an open line of communication. Recruiters typically see hundreds of resumes a day and speak to a multitude of candidates a day about multiple opportunities. Being patient, positive, and persistent will help you tremendously in your job search.
Dave Carhart, a Technical Recruiter out of Milwaukee, WI adds,
"Keep in touch. First, if you are working with a recruiter and your situation changes (you find a job, you get laid off, you are now open to considering other locations etc) let them know. Second, it's ok to check in occasionally during your search but remember that recruiters are busy so don't overdo it... Communication is key. Be honest, be open. Communicate your expertise and your skills clearly and where you feel you can make an impact. Communicate what types of jobs you actually will accept and be interested in."
Working with a recruiter can be very beneficial to your job search. They can be an invaluable asset in attaining the employment you strive for. These tips should provide a pretty good guideline on how to work with recruiters effectively.
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