In the competition for talent, companies are using recruiters more and more to find the people they need. So, whether you are currently employed or not, and are looking for a new job, working with recruiters could certainly give your job search a boost. There are, however, a few things to keep in mind to make the most out of your experience with a recruiter.
The first piece of advice is to be prepared. If you have never been contacted by a recruiter, or it’s been some time since you’ve talked with a recruiter, do some research and acquaint or reacquaint yourself with the process.
One thing to keep in mind is that, although the recruiter is working for the company, he or she can also be helpful to you as a job seeker. The recruiter can give you advice about the process and be used for feedback for your own impressions. The recruiter can also be a go-between among employers and job applicants. The recruiter can pass along information or respond to other concerns even before actual contact between the parties occurs.
Find out the payment system that the recruiter is working under. Is he or she being paid on a retainer basis, where he will receive payment regardless of the outcome, or on a strictly commission basis, which tends to make the recruiter focus on a fast closing? Knowing this as a job candidate is important because if the recruiter is working on a retainer, you can be more confident knowing that he will not be in a rush to close the deal – and more concerned about finding the right person for the job.
You need to be able to market yourself to a recruiter. You need give the recruiter a complete knowledge of your skills and experience, as well as what kind of position you are looking for. But at the same time, you want to be careful not to exaggerate.
It’s also important in dealing with a recruiter to be yourself. Trying to create an appearance that is not the real you just to fit a job description will sooner or later lead to problems, because you may end up in a job you really aren’t suited for. Try not to come across as too eager, which might be interpreted as desperation. You need to be poised and confident in dealing with a recruiter.
As with any job search, you also want to investigate you potential employer and make yourself as informed as possible about them.
Be up front about any other job leads your are pursuing as well. The recruiter and the employer will certainly understand if you are looking at more than one opportunity – it may even make you a more attractive candidate to know that others are interested in you as well. Conversely, the recruiter nor employer will be very happy if you are not honest about what is going on with your job search.
Also, if there is a skeleton in the closet, it’s best to get it out right away, rather than have some potentially embarrassing information surface later in the process. This may also work to your advantage if the employer sees your honesty and willingness to confront tough issues.
Finally, be open to suggestions and criticism. Don’t take it personally, but as an opportunity for improvement.
If you are looking for a temporary, temporary-to-hire, or direct hire job in the Anchorage area, contact the Opti Staffing Group. We will find you a job that matches your qualifications. Call us today.