Recruiters play a vital role in the job search process. They can provide valuable insights into client expectations and help you prepare for interviews. Their primary job is to present the best candidate for the role, which also earns them commissions. Therefore, it is essential to manage your relationship with recruiters properly.
Things to Know About Recruiters:
They are responsible for ensuring that you are the best candidate for the role.
They may send a pool of candidates to the company for interviews, so make sure to prepare yourself to stand out.
They represent multiple candidates for a single role.
They earn commissions when you secure the role.
They have built strong relationships with clients and want you to respect these relationships for future roles.
They have your interest at heart, but they are busy people chasing different clients daily.
Respect their time, and they will respect your time as well.
If you have already applied for a role and are in direct engagement with the company, be careful about how much information you share with the recruiter, as they may follow up with the company. Politely decline and do not share any comments.
What Not to Do When Engaging with Recruiters:
Only share your CV with a recruiter and not the list of jobs you have applied for.
Only share your references when you have secured the role. Keep your references ready to expedite the process.
If you have a role in the pipeline, let the recruiter know, but do not share the company details with them.
If you secure a role, let the recruiter know you are off the market. Do not share the names and details of the company or whom you are working with the recruiters.
Be careful of time-wasting recruiters who call to find information they can use to chase your contacts.
Do not share information with recruiters who do not have a live role. Politely manage the relationship with some recruiters as they might be using you to find roles for other candidates.
Engaging with Recruiters When They Call You:
Recruiters want people to be prepared when they are having a conversation. So if you are not ready, schedule a good time with the recruiter, and they will call you if you are a suitable candidate for the role.
Have your application log ready when engaging with the recruiter. Verify the role they have contacted you for and check if they have a role before sharing all your details.
If you receive a call from a recruiter and are not ready, politely reschedule a suitable time to have a chat.
Be prepared to be at your best when a recruiter sends your details to a company. They will send you a non-disclosure agreement to ensure that the company or you do not apply directly for the role.
Recruiters have a job to do, and managing the relationship is crucial for a win-win outcome.
