top 10 mistakes - #4 working with recruiters

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Top 10 Mistakes

Working With Recruiters

By: Bill Hollandwww.mandrake.ca/bill

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Introduction

• Wondering whether to use a recruiter? A reputable recruiter in a reputable search firm can be an excellent way for you to get ahead in your job search. They can help you explore new job opportunities and open your eyes to new possibilities. They are experts in their field and have a pulse on the market. Effective recruiters have well-established and credible networks that can extend well beyond your own network. They can be your eyes and ears in the marketplace, and let’s face it, you can use all the help you can get. They won’t do all the work for you, but they can sure help make the road much easier and navigable for you. It’s up to you to learn how they work, and how to make them work for you.


#10 – Thinking That The Recruiter Works For You

• Make no mistake – the recruiter works for the client, not for you. They are paid by the client to find suitable candidates. You are an important stakeholder, but you don’t call the shots.

• ReadySet Hired! A Practical Guide to Finding a Job.I recently co-authored the book ReadySet Hired! which takes you through all stages of the job search process, from beginning to end. Easily manage your job search through a 10-step process supported by coaching comments, quick tips and dozens of online resources.Available FREE! at www.readysethired.com


#9 – Not Articulating Your Expectations

• Don’t expect the recruiter to negotiate in your best interest unless you make them aware of your expectations and must-haves. Making your position clear will help them help you in the negotiation.



#8 – Bypassing The Recruiter

• With the exception of sending a follow up thank you note after the interview, do not contact the employer directly. If you have any questions or concerns, ask the recruiter to liaise on your behalf.



#7 – Being Demanding

• Make requests not demands. The impression you make on the recruiter will be reflected in your candidacy. After all, the recruiter is in a position of influence with the client. Always remain professional and courteous.



#6 – Pestering The Recruiter

• You want to be politely persistent without becoming annoying. Recruiters are busy professionals – don’t waste their time. Keep your communications appropriate, and they will be more responsive.



#5 – Being Unresponsive

• Respond to recruiters even if you’re not interested in a particular position put forth to you. You never know what opportunity they might have for you in the future, so keep the lines of communication open.



#4 – Working With Too Many Recruiters

• Be cautious when working with too many recruiters. You don’t want multiple recruiters to represent you to the same employer for the same position – this kind of conflict can undermine your candidacy.



#3 – Working With A Single Recruiter

• Don’t limit yourself by working with only one recruiter. Having more than one recruiter contact will ensure that you get greater access to suitable opportunities.



#2 – Lying

• Don’t compromise your reputation by misrepresenting yourself to a recruiter – you will eventually be found out. Any small benefit that you think you may gain now will result in a greater loss throughout your career.



#1 – Not Doing Your Homework

• Be sure to spend some time up front researching recruiters and search firms. You want to pre-qualify them to determine whether they are reputable and whether they work in your field of interest.


top 10 mistakes - #4 working with recruiters

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