Staying with the theme for the past few posts it seems appropriate to complete my thoughts on this issue. For you seasoned-hands this post may be redundant. Even so it offers useful reminders. The overarching point is to be a serious candidate. When presented with an opportunity, after the appropriate due-diligence on your part, make a commitment to pursue the job or not. Let the recruiter know your decision as soon as possible! Don’t underestimate the importance of this initial step. If you have not worked with this recruiter before, this is your opportunity to make a new connection who could play a vital role in your career. If this situation is not right for you, explain why and describe situations that would be a better fit. Be a resource by offering names of other potential candidates.
Having established the overarching framework to build a solid relationship with a recruiter, these five points will set you apart from the rest of the field!
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Be competitive; assume that the recruiter has plenty of viable candidates.
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Present a resume that includes your complete work history; it is relevant and important.
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When you are scheduled to talk with the recruiter, be prepared.
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Make it easy for me to find you and don’t make me chase you down when I need you.
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Check in from time to time to reaffirm your interest and receive updates.
In a recent search I generated almost 200 candidates. In fact, this has been a fairly consistent response rate for the past few years. If you are serious about the job in question, you must be a competitor! Ensure that you stand out from the crowd by your enthusiasm and professionalism! Understand that no matter how strong your background, there are many other viable candidate in the queue.
Point number two may be contrary to advice you have received. Job seekers want to get their foot in the door with the hiring manager. Age discrimination is a real issue. I get it. However, this is not an appropriate strategy when working with third party recruiters. It looks deceptive. News-flash! Most of my clients are not hung up on age. They are looking for experience and competence. So, be sure to have a resume that provides your complete work history. One way or another I will get that information from you, so save us both a lot of time and effort.
As to point number three; help me help you. When we agree on a time to talk, be prepared to talk. Find a quiet place where you won’t be distracted. Make sure you are on a land line or have a very reliable cell phone connection. Have your resume in front of you so that we can discuss your credentials.
Point number four should be obvious. Be accessible to the recruiter! Many of my candidates are employed so taking my phone call or answering emails during working hours is difficult. Responding to text messages is a lot easier. The point is to be accessible to your recruiter and help her understand how best to reach you and the constraints you are working under.
Finally, check in with the recruiter from time to time to reinforce your interest, to get a status update, and to determine if any additional information is required. A regular check in can be very useful.
If you follow these guidelines you will be viewed as a savvy candidate. Understand the needs of your recruiter to help him help you! You may not get the job in question but you will certainly make a favorable impression. Favorable impressions lead to future opportunities!
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Jim Weber, President
New Century Dynamics Executive Search
www.newcenturydynamics.com