Finding a job is no small feat. Locating positions of interest and convincing employers you are the one to hire appears simple. In reality, it can be unnerving and frustrating, particularly if the search has been a lengthy one. Enlisting the assistance of a specialized recruiter can ease some of the pressure and help you target your efforts to only the most promising opportunities.
Types of Recruiters
There are several types of recruiters, but the mechanics and psychology of recruiting are all the same.
- Corporate recruiters are employed by a company for the purpose of finding and qualifying new employees for the organization.
- Contingency recruiters don't typically have an exclusive relationship with the company. They are paid a fee only if the company hires a candidate discovered through their efforts. (Most third party recruiters fall into this category.)
- Third party recruiters are subcontracted to by a company for the same purpose. Several different types of third party recruiters exist, but the main difference between them lies in how they are compensated. Both third party recruiters are paid by the hiring company, but retained recruiters typically have an "exclusive" with the company. They are paid a portion of their fee upfront with the balance paid when the search is over. Retained recruiters are typically used for executive level positions.
Why work with Recruiters?
- Sometimes it is about whom you know
Professional recruiters have deep networks of business contacts within a wide range of companies and industries. While you are diligently scouring newspaper and Internet ads, they can uncover leads and vacancies that have not been advertised or even announced, thus giving you an advantage over job seekers who rely solely on information that is posted in the public domain.
- Recruiters also can serve as career advisers
They can work with you to refine your application materials. A skilled recruiting professional can offer guidance on everything from answering tough interview questions to negotiating the best compensation package to how to dress for your first day of work. They also can help you navigate career crossroads and explore new fields.
Tips to Working with a Recruiter
- Not all recruiters are created equal
When selecting a recruiter, it's important that the individual is an expert in his or her field. For example, if you are hoping to find work as a Storage Architect, someone who has experience in the Information Technology field will be better able to understand your needs and the expectations of potential employers. Above all, you must be comfortable with the person with whom you have partnered and confident that he or she has your best interests at heart. In addition, remember that you should receive a recruiter's assistance free of charge. These individuals are paid a fee by companies to locate qualified candidates, so view with suspicion any recruiter who asks you to pay for job-search services.
- The more information, the better
When talking with a recruiter for the first time, be open and honest about your background, experience and career aspirations. He or she needs to know as much about your professional life as possible to find the right position for you. Are you looking for a Civil Engineer role in a large corporate or small business setting? What are your salary requirements? Are you willing to travel? The information you provide may prompt the recruiting professional to suggest promising positions or career paths that you had not previously considered. You also should disclose to your recruiter any aspects of your work history that may generate concern from prospective employers, such as a long period of unemployment or termination. Sharing your current job search progress is also valuable in moving things forward. The more upfront you are, the easier it will be for a recruiter to assist you.
- Keep Lines of Communication Open
When trying to place candidates in their ideal position, timing is everything! It is important that you provide your recruiter with multiple methods for getting in touch with you. DSC recruiters provide their candidates with an office line, email, and cell phone number; doing the same in return ensures you won’t miss out on great opportunities.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Say "No"
We’ve all been in situations in which we don’t want to disappoint someone else. In the recruiting industry, the sooner you can tell your recruiter, “This position is not a good fit”, the better off we will all be. It’s better to wait for the next great opportunity than to have you, our client, and DSC be dissatisfied with your new job. However, do not rush to make judgment before fully checking out each opportunity.
- Patience
Although using the services of a skilled recruiter can significantly improve your odds of locating employment, even the most successful recruiting professionals need time to find the perfect position for the job seekers they represent. So, don't get discouraged. Recruiters continually mine their sources for job leads and may suddenly discover an opportunity that is right for you. If you'd like a status update, don't be afraid to call your recruiter with questions. Checking in with him or her on a regular basis ensures both of you remain focused on the best opportunities for you. A skilled recruiting professional can help you find the right job faster and open doors to new opportunities. By researching firms and maintaining communication, you'll be in the best position to locate and secure your next position.
- Follow up, follow up, follow up
After each employment interview your recruiter arranges, call to let him or her know how the meeting went. Your feedback can provide information that can be leveraged in follow-up communication with the employer. This could pave the way to a second or final interview. By following up, you also may receive valuable insight into your interview skills and learn about any concerns expressed by the hiring manager. Throughout the relationship, be forthright in communicating any changes in your career needs or availability. If you're interviewing for other jobs that you've set up on your own, let your recruiter know. He or she may have contacts at the company and be able to help you secure the position.