The Most Effective Ways to Work with a Recruiter

You’ve been on the job hunt before, but this time things are different. Maybe you want to settle down into a permanent career with good benefits and a company that really values its employees. Perhaps you’d like to test drive a new career path by working in a few temporary positions, allowing you to get a better idea of what you want. Either way, working with a recruiter just might be the golden ticket.

First time associates with Terry Neese Personnel sometimes ask what a recruiter can do for them that they can’t do on their own. That’s not a simple question! Here are the benefits of using a recruiter:

• Recruiters have connections with employers who may not make public job postings.
• Recruiters can give you critical feedback on your resume, cover letter and interviewing skills.
• Recruiters find opportunities for you, instead of you spending all your time hunting down the jobs.
• Recruiters work for firms that often prescreen, so your background and references checks only have to happen once.

However, to get the most out of your recruiter, you have to give a little, too. Here are some tips to work more effectively with your recruiter.

 

Explain your ideal work experience

Give your recruiter an understanding of what you want in an employment opportunity, so he or she can be sure to match you with the right fit. Since this placement also impacts their reputation and compensation, they will be highly motivated to place you in a company where you feel like you belong. This means being honest about your career plans so that you both are looking at the same future. Since some applicants are interested in a temporary job and some are looking for a permanent career, your recruiter needs to know who you are. Be sure you give a clear idea of the values, work ethic and level of commitment you need to be happy on assignment.

 

Explain why you’re the best choice

A recruiter needs to convince the hiring manager that you’re going to be the solution to their problems. The best way to do this is to show how you are forward-thinking and independent, but also a team player. You have a proven track record for creating solutions and improvingbusiness. Be sure to explain your success in these situations so your recruiter can craft the perfect elevator speech. You are the best candidate, and you know it. Help your recruiter prove it.

 

Give your recruiter what he or she needs (before it’s needed!)

Your resume will need constant updating if you’ve taken on a string of temporary positions. Likewise, if you’ve added to job responsibilities, make sure your resume reflects those. Be sure to give your recruiter the most up-to-date information. Let them know if your references change or if you’ve received new recommendations on LinkedIn. If you’ve found a few opportunities that could be a good fit, pass them on to your recruiter before applying to get advice and feedback. Stay in constant communication if you want to see the best results.

We know the job search can be time consuming and overwhelming for active job seekers. For the past 40 years the experienced recruiters at Terry Neese Personnel have helped countless candidates get connected to companies looking to fill highly sought-after positions. Whether you want a temporary, temp-to-hire or direct placement position, we can help guide your career path in the right direction. Contact us today at 405.942.8551.