You have been recently contacted by a recruiter about an amazing career opportunity that you feel is a great fit for you. As you go through the interview process, your best bet is to be honest with your recruiter for several reasons.
Make sure it’s the right fit
When you are honest with your recruiter about your desires and expectations, it is easier for him or her to help make sure the position and company is the right fit for you. Your recruiter will know the inside scoop on why the position is open and exactly what the hiring manager is looking for. If you’re working with a good recruiter, he or she will be able to give you an idea of the hiring manager’s personality and management style before your first face to face interview.
Depending on your desires and wishes, the recruiter will be able to let you know if they think the job will be a good fit, or if there are some things that may not match up to your expectations. Be honest and upfront. Let your recruiter know if you are truly interested in leaving your current position.
Are you looking for a different company culture?
Are you looking for a fast track to management?
Are you looking for strictly a 9 to 5 work schedule?
Tell your recruiter. It’s better to find out in the beginning stages if the position is actually a good fit, rather than after multiple interviews.
Getting an offer that you desire
When your recruiter starts asking questions surrounding compensation, it is in your best interest to be honest in your current earnings and your true expectations. Also, make sure you disclose any additional benefits or perks you are receiving.
Do you get an annual bonus?
Do you receive a company car?
Are your health benefits fully covered?
Do you receive company stock options and 401k match?
You do not want to withhold or stretch the truth when it comes to any of these things. Understand that the recruiter will know or will be able to ascertain how much movement the client has with compensation and benefits, when presented the right candidate.
Your recruiter will express your desires as the interview process continues, and will let you know if at any time it seems that your expectations are unable to be met by the company. It is much better to find these things out up front or sometime during the interview process. Otherwise, you may receive an offer that does not justify you leaving your current position.
Build a relationship with your recruiter
Finally, remember that while the recruiter technically is working for the hiring manager, he or she will benefit from your hire. Treat your recruiter with respect and build a relationship with him or her. If both you and your recruiter are honest with each other throughout the process, you have a better chance at finding the right job that meets your expectations and desires.
Have you ever withheld information from your recruiter, only to find out in the end that the position was not a good fit for you? Please share your experiences in the comments below.
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