Searching for a job is a full-time job, which is why working with a skilled recruiter can be the difference-maker. You have the skills, experience, and talent to sell, but recruiters are the ones who can get your resume in front of the right people and open doors faster.
A recruiter might approach you, or you might seek them out, but either way, there are certain tips you should consider when working with a recruiter.
Be Honest – If you aren’t transparent about your skills or the type of job you want, how can a recruiter really help find you the right fit? You might be feeling yourself if a recruiter reaches out to you, so it’s important to be authentic and clear about your career goals and what opportunities align with them. Think about what company culture fits you best, what companies you want to work for, and your ideal job.
Be Responsive – Working with a recruiter is still a professional relationship so respond promptly to their calls or emails. Recruiters usually have multiple candidates they are working with simultaneously, along with hiring managers and company executives. Follow through if a recruiter schedules an interview for you and you’ve agreed to take it.
Be Proactive – The recruiter isn’t the only one working in this equation. Offer feedback to your recruiter, track your submissions to stay on top of your opportunities, and provide referrals. If you haven’t started working with a recruiter, make yourself more visible by updating your LinkedIn profile and creating a thought-leadership presence online by engaging with people and content that fit your niche.
Be Respectful – Recruiters have a full schedule balancing candidates like you, so respect their time and be someone they want to work with. Conversations with recruiters should be polite and similar to an interview. Consider your communications with a recruiter as a way to prepare for future interactions with hiring managers.
Be Open – Share all the information you need with a recruiter, especially the red flags. Will hiring managers look at your resume and think job hopper? Address it and give the recruiter your why. Recruiters have the ear of potential hiring managers. Help them sell you for you.
