Tips for Working with a Recruiter

Working with a Recruiter ~ Three Top Tips

I used to be a recruiter and hiring manager. Which means in English that I read 1,000's of resumes per week, often 100's in a day. I phone screened and interviewed 1,000's of candidates, and hired over 400 employees from entry level to CEO's. So, I know a little bit about the recruiting and hiring process. And, I am here to let you know that recruiters are NOT your friend. They won't help you fix your resume, prep for an interview, or hold your hand through the job offer. They work for the CLIENT and get paid when they successfully place a candidate at a firm. They are searching for talented professionals, so with that in mind, here are three top tips to get a recruiter to give you the time of day.

1. Your Resume Better Stop Them Cold!

If the first contact you have with a recruiter is your resume, it better be outstanding. You have 10 seconds to differentiate your accomplishments, talents, and skills. Also, your resume needs to be specifically tailored to the opportunity they are recruiting for. You must appear to be a “perfect fit” on paper before they pick up the phone. Consider getting your resume reviewed by a professional, and if necessary, have it professionally written.

2. Your Linked In Profile Better Rock!

If your resume goes into the maybe pile, the recruiter will check out your Linked In profile. Or, they may see the profile first if they are recruiting from Linked In. If your Linked In profile is not complete, say you don't have a professional photo, or REALLY good recommendations, they will pass. Also, your profile should not be a cut and paste job of your resume. It should market your accomplishments and skills. Your recommendations should be strong and from people who can speak about the quality of your candidacy. And be sure to use the status update and groups.

3. Control the Relationship with Recruiters

Once your are working with a recruiter, manage the relationship with them, and not vice versa. That means they need your permission to send out your resume. You may have already applied to a firm, or not want to work there, so you need to know where your resume is going. Also, each resume needs to be adjusted to the specific job. You make the decisions, and they listen. You DO NOT want to be the candidate that had 10 recruiters send your resume to the same client!

Working with recruiters can be good for your career, and if you develop a relationship with one or two, even better. Try to find a recruiter that specializes in your industry. I still work with candidates I met 5 years ago!

About the Author: Kristi Enigl is a Career Consultant with 20 years of Hiring, HR Management, and Executive Recruiting across a broad spectrum of industries. She helps professionals identify, create, and market their personal brand so they reach their career goals – FAST. Email your resume to coachkristi@kristienigl.com for a complimentary evaluation.