5 Essential Rules For Working With Executive Recruiters

Last updated on May 21, 2014

5 Essential Rules for Working with Executive Recruiters

Whilst there are many different ways of finding a new job, working together with a recruiter to find the perfect role increases your chances of success. But how can you get the best out of them?

Understand Your Role

Remember that recruiters are essentially doing the work for their client, so recognising this is your first winning tactic. Don’t treat them as if they’re working for you, but instead present yourself as the best candidate in your field, working in partnership with them to fill a position with the right person. There is also great wisdom in being open and honest, as you’ll be helping the consultant help you by being upfront about your needs and aspirations. Don’t be economical with the truth, present an up to date and pitch perfect CV, and never ask to be put forward for a role you’re not suitable for.

Build a Relationship

If you work at establishing a mutually beneficial relationship with your recruiter, you’ll be foremost in their minds when opportunities arise. If you’re in the position to do so (ie, at a senior level), then networking with recruiters before you even start looking for a new role gives you a head start. Keep them up to date on industry news, send suitable clients and colleagues their way, and generally help them out. Most people never forget a favour, and you’ll be right on their radar. Remember too that the executive recruitment process is often a long and drawn out procedure, so throughout the time that a job is open, always stay in constant contact with the recruiter and don’t let the channels of communication lapse.

Never Waste Their Time

Executive recruiters are normally extremely busy, so only ever contact a recruiter if you’re serious about changing role. If you waste their time, then they’re likely to avoid you in the future. If you’re in the position to be headhunted and they seek you out first, be willing to co-operate if you want to change roles, or in case you need them in years to come. Even if you’re not interested in a new job, and they have come to you, don’t string them along if you’ve no intention of taking on a new position.

Be Selective

There are niche recruiters for every field, so make sure you’re targeting the right ones. If for example, you’re in finance at a senior level, then you should be targeting a high finance and relationship focused executive recruiter, such as http://www.veritasexecutive.com/.

Polish Your Online Profile

Remember that most recruiters have a large pool of candidates, so you need to make a winning impression from the very beginning. The first thing many recruiters will do is search Google for you. And increasingly, a large number of recruiters use Linkedin to headhunt suitable candidates. So make sure your Linkedin page is up to date, repost any online CV’s with up to date versions, and check that your professional image isn’t compromised anywhere.

By Harry Price

Harry Price is a freelance writer from England. Since becoming an entrepreneur, he has made a goal to move every 3 years until he’s no longer able.