Is a Recruiter a Good Option For You? | iCapitalMarketing.com

Know if a Recruiter is a Real Option For You.

Before investing your time, determine if a recruiting or headhunting service is a real option for you. While it is the case that recruiters (agencies and headhunters) earn money placing candidates into their client companies, recruiters are usually of no value to entry level, junior, fresh graduates, workforce re-entry, etc. The reason for this is that companies will usually only pay a fee for someone they believe they cannot locate efficiently on their own. The general thought with employers is that new graduates and junior candidates, for example, can be found without incurring an extra cost to the company. This of course is not a knock against being entry level or junior, just the way it works.

It is usually of no value for you to engage a recruiter in order to try and change professions or careers. Recruiters are only able to place people into very similar positions as to the one the person is currently in, or the last position they held. Companies will pay a headhunting fee for very recent and very relevant experience. If you have been out of work for a long length of time, or working in a non-relevant position, do not expect much help from a recruiter.

Overall, utilize recruiters when you can and if it makes sense, but do not expect great results. This is not a knock on recruiters. There are just many factors that go into the process of you, the employer, and a recruiter all being successful in your search. This should be one of various avenues you utilize with your job search, along with applying directly companies, networking, utilizing the Internet, referrals, and making sure your resume and interview presentation is outstanding.

While job postings serve a purpose, try not to be frustrated with the lack of response. If there is no response to your resume from a recruiting company posting, ask yourself? Am I a new graduate or junior candidate? Do I really have the required skills? Do I need to relocate? Do I need a Visa? Have I been out of work a long time? If it is a perfect match, and the job opening is real, you will more than likely get a call.

Hiring companies like candidates from recruiters whose situation is simple. Having to relocate or requiring a work Visa are usually not that simple. Companies may not have as big of a problem with these issues if you applied directly, but to pay a recruiting fee and the other costs associated with a candidate, may not be desirable.

After you have determined that a recruiting service could offer you value and be realistic option, follow a few guidelines and the process can be a rewarding experience.

1. You should be able to clearly and concisely explain to a recruiter why you would be a valuable employee.

2. Be upfront and do not lie to a recruiter.

3. Be prepared for questions regarding any issues that may be possible question marks in your work history, or other areas.

4. Be realistic and educated regarding salary norms in your specialty.

5. If you are going to demand an unrealistic increase in your present position or pay, such as going for a manager to a VP, or from $25,000 to $70,000, it would be best to go it alone.

6. When sending your resume to recruiters, you may request that your resume not be sent to prospective employers without discussing it with you.

7. Applying directly to an employer after hearing about a position through a recruiter is very risky and highly unethical.

8. Do not be upset if a recruiter does not respond to you. If they have a position that is good match, and you are clearly qualified, then the odds are favorable they will follow up.

9. An occasional follow up email or phone call to a recruiter is fine, but do not waste your time and energy contacting them every other day.

10. A good way to find relevant recruiters for your specialty is to ask around. There are a lot of recruiters in the world, but they are sometimes hard to locate when you need one.

Lastly, we again emphasize that that you use many methods for locating a new position. Diversify your approach. One of them will often work.

Also, if you get a call from a recruiter, take it. There is no downside establishing a relationship with a recruiter, even when you are currently not in need of their services.

Article written and provided by iCapitalMarketing .com, a blog targeting the three interrelated components required for career, business, and financial success; Preparation, Hard Work, and Emotional Intelligence. The opportunity to thrive is limitless. Keep improving and increasing your value in the marketplace.

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