Job Seeker Blog - Spark Hire

Tips and Tricks for Successfully Working with a Recruiter

If you’re looking for the perfect job opportunity, working with a recruiter can become tremendously helpful in making that dream job a reality. But just because you partner with a recruiter, doesn’t guarantee that your experience will be a success. Keep these tips in mind in order to make the most out of your experience with a professional headhunter:

Don’t wait until you’re desperate

Some professionals wait until they really, really need a job and then they get started looking for a recruiter. In order to enjoy the best experience with your recruiter, you’ll want to start making contacts before you really need their services. When the recruiter has some time to get to know you and learn what matters to you, they’ll come up with a better match. If you come to them desperate and panicked, it’ll make it harder for them to find the ideal fit.

Be selective

Just as a recruiter may seek you out, you should also take some time to seek out the headhunter who is the right match for you. In order to do this, look for people who specialize in your field and them approach them. Don’t just blindly email any recruiter you can find on Google. If the chemistry isn’t there, move on.

Don’t become passive

Just because you have a recruiter working for you, doesn’t mean you can kick back and relax as they help you find a job. You’ll still need to be proactive about the search, even if you’re partnering with a professional. A headhunter isn’t a miracle worker; they can certainly provide guidance, but the job seeker has to put in their own time too.

Be honest

A recruiter is able to work most effectively when they know exactly what you want. This means being realistic about your skills, salary, and other expectations. When a recruiter knows exactly what the professional is looking for, they’re able to make a more effective match.

Check in

Even if your recruiter doesn’t have anything for you at the moment, it’s still a good idea to check in with them from time to time. This helps to keep you on their radar and remind them what you’re looking for. Be polite and professional, but keep your name on their mind. Daily calls and e-mails are frowned upon, but weekly check-ins are perfectly acceptable.

Have you ever worked with a recruiter before? What strategies did you use to have success during the partnership?

Lauren Levine

Lauren Levine is a copywriter/blogger who contributes to a number of magazines and websites including The Frisky, USA Today, and others. She also authors her own blog called Life with Lauren. She loves cooking, anything on the E! network, and is trying to convince herself that running isn't so bad.

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