How to get the most out of a recruiter

Recruiters are invaluable for job seekers. They have far reaching contacts in a variety of industries, know hundreds of different roles and job types, and have resources that can enhance any job search.

It’s worth taking the time to build a super relationship with them. That way you’re more likely to find yourself in front of the right employer, time and time again, throughout your entire career.

We asked Randstad and Hays for their top tips when it comes to building a trusted relationship with recruiters. Here are some dos and don’ts:
 

• Do ask your recruiter how often you should touch base, and by which method. Everyone has a different style of communication, and just because you prefer text or email doesn’t mean that it’s most efficient, says Diana Tartaglia, operations manager for HR consulting at Randstad. Recruiters are busy people and if you can work within their schedule it’s sure to be a more positive outcome.
   
• Do win over your recruiter by making the process simpler. Make sure you know what you want from the job search, says Jason Walker, managing director of Hays in New Zealand. Arrive with examples of jobs you like, and have seen advertised, and examples of what you’ve done in the past that make you the right person for this type of role. Likewise let your recruiter know what the deal breakers are in a job offer so they don’t waste time on a job you’re never going to take.
   
• Do show gratitude. Recruiters need to juggle multiple clients and candidates. If they take the time to help you, show genuine appreciation. Being grateful and authentic will raise your brand in the eye of the recruiter. “It also demonstrates your relationship building skills, which is an additional thing the recruiter can feed back to an employer,” says Tartaglia.
   
• Don’t present yourself badly. Make sure you’re punctual, your personal hygiene is good, and you’re well presented for every meeting with the recruiter. That way they know that you’ll represent them well in an interview. “A recruiter’s credibility is always on the line in interviews,” says Walker.
   
• Don’t disrespect your recruiter. Treat your recruiter as a person, not an obstacle. It’s amazing how often candidates are critical, argumentative, or insulting to recruitment consultants due to previous experiences, says Walker. Recruiters are people and will go the extra mile for candidates who are polite and respectful.
   
• Don’t be secretive about who you’ve approached. There’s nothing worse for a recruiter, says Walker, than contacting a company on your behalf to find that your CV is already on file there. Honesty is really important when dealing with a recruiter.
   

Finally, view your improved relationship as a fresh start to your job search. Turn a new leaf and begin building positive relationships with recruiters – starting today!

Being grateful and authentic will raise your brand in the eye of the recruiter. “It also demonstrates your relationship building skills, which is an additional thing the recruiter can feedback to an employer,” says Tartaglia.