You have probably received more than a few messages from recruiters interested in learning more about your background or placing you in a new role. You may have ignored those messages. Even if you are not considering a change, it can be wise to take the time to speak with a recruiter working in an area of interest to you. You may not be looking to make a switch now, but in six months, you may feel differently.
Engage Proactively with Recruiters
When a recruiter contacts you, take a few minutes to learn about their area of specialization. A fifteen minute call is enough time for you to describe your background and your goals. When you decide to make a move, you will be on that recruiter’s radar, and they will have a sense of what roles might suit you. Think about it this way: if a recruiter has an assignment in your field, they are likely to prioritize the candidates they have spoken to already. That short phone call may give you some priority in the process.
Choose Trustworthy Recruiters
Do not feel the need to speak with every recruiter. Specialty aside, it is important to evaluate whether you trust them. If you feel that they are not listening to you, or that they are trying to pressure you into considering unsuitable roles, take note of that. A recruiter who does that is not looking out for their client or for you.
Respect the Recruiters’ Time
When a recruiter contacts you, it is acceptable to say that you are not currently looking but would be happy to schedule a quick call. It is rude, however, to waste the recruiter’s time by pretending you are interested in a position when you are not. Moreover, when you do speak, keep the conversation short. Respect their time. Recruiters remember how you behave. If you are dishonest or disrespectful, the recruiter will not want to work with you in the future. Remember, recruiters work for their clients. They are not going to risk those relationships by working with someone that they cannot trust to be honest and respectful.
Facilitate Connections for Others
In the event that you know someone who might have an interest and the background for a job that the recruiter presents, there are a number of ways you can put the recruiter in touch with them. Check with the recruiter first, and then you can send the job posting or the recruiter’s information to your contact. You can also make the introduction yourself if you feel comfortable doing so. Otherwise, you can give the name to the recruiter to reach out directly on a confidential basis. Recruiters rely on trust, reputation, and relationships to do their jobs. They have no interest in burning bridges by sharing a confidential source.
Putting a recruiter in touch with another potential candidate is just another way of strengthening what could be a beneficial relationship for you. Even if you are not looking for a job today, you will most likely be looking for new opportunities in the future. Having a relationship with a trustworthy recruiter who understands your background and goals is invaluable for your career. Speaking with recruiters who reach out to you is a great way to foster that kind of relationship and set yourself up for future success.
