Have you been working with recruiters throughout your job search? It’s important to work with a recruiter who you have confidence in and feel a strong rapport with. Here are five things to remember when choosing a recruiter to assist you in your job search.
- First impressions are everything! Treat the interview process as you would treat any other interview— formally and professionally. Don’t act as though meeting with a recruiter is a waste of your time. Recruiters have many contacts, and if you present yourself well, they may be able to pull a few strings for you down the road.
- Follow up with a “Thank You” e-mail (free of spelling and grammatical errors, of course) upon completion of your interview. Be sure to thank your recruiter for their time, and include any attachments (resume, letters of recommendation, etc.) that your recruiter had requested during your interview. Recruiters want to see that you are serious about finding employment. It also displays a professional demeanor.
- Stay in touch. Finding a job that is a “perfect fit” doesn’t happen over night. Stay in contact with your recruiter and check-in with them every few weeks. This is a sure way to let your recruiter know that you want to get back into the workforce and that you are constantly looking for new opportunities. If your contact information has changed, be sure to let your recruiter know, as they may have been trying to contact you!
- Try to have an open-mind. Permanent employment is always preferred, but contract work can become permanent over time. Contract work enhances your skill set and allows you to meet new people, gain more references and expand your network. Your recruiter will match you with job opportunities that fit with your background, even if it is out of your comfort zone. It doesn’t hurt to give it a try and trust your recruiter’s expertise!
- Explain your needs. Let your recruiter know if you feel that he/she is not on the right track with your job search. You have to be open and honest about your salary requirements, commute duration and long-term career goals. Your recruiter relies heavily on this information when considering you over another candidate for a specific job opening.
Following these five steps will ensure that you and your recruiter have a professional relationship and good communication. You never know, you recruiter may help you attain your dream job! The highest form of flattery to your recruiter is a referral, so keep them in mind when you have friends and family members beginning a job search!
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