If you’ve never worked with a recruiter before, you probably have some questions about what to expect and some questions about what the recruiter expects from you. Here are some tips to help you build a mutually beneficial and successful relationship.
The Value Your Recruiter Should Bring to the Table
Some job seekers wonder if there is any actual value in choosing to work with a recruiter. While it is true that the client company does pay a fee for the recruiter’s services and you do not, the recruiter only benefits by providing their client with a truly successful match. Even though their service to you is free, it is in their best interest to match you with an opportunity to shine.
You can identify a valuable recruiter if they provide you the benefit of:
- A wide network – They should be well connected in your industry.
- Hidden treasures – Great recruiters know when jobs are opening that are not posted for the general public.
- Strong professional and cultural alignment – A good recruiter won’t match you with a job just on skills and salary, but will consider corporate culture and how it meshes with your personality and work style.
- Market knowledge – They should be able to tell you exactly what type of salary the market is paying and how much you can command based on your skill set.
- Confidential search – A savvy recruiter knows not to call you during the workday or contact you through work channels.
- Resume and interview preparation – Your recruiter will want you to put your best foot forward and should offer you advice on your resume and interviewing skills.
- Ongoing feedback – After an interview, a good recruiter will debrief with you, providing feedback to help you understand where you shine and areas you may need to continue working on.
What You Should Bring to the Table
Recruiting relationships are two-way streets. If you want to be a great candidate for your recruiter, make sure you do the following:
- Respond quickly – When the recruiter needs paperwork, information or a call back from you, do your best to respond within a few hours’ time.
- Be clear and honest – If you know from the recruiter’s description a job isn’t right for you, be honest about that fact. Be very clear about your goals and expectations so the recruiter does not waste your time, her time or the employer’s time.
- Always go through your recruiter – Do not be tempted to reach out directly to hiring managers.
- Refer a friend – Recruiters want to build their candidate network. If you know a great professional who might be in the market for a new job, make an introduction.
- Take feedback like a pro – The feedback your recruiter offers is valuable and will help you improve your interviewing skills over time. Listen and take the feedback with grace, even if you hear things you might not like.
If you are an engineer or technology professional in the Southeast searching out new opportunities and challenges for your career and you are ready to work with a recruiter to jumpstart your search, contact the recruiting experts at Selectek today.
