Identifying a Recruiter to Assist My Job Search Efforts

Whether you are a passive or active jobseeker, identifying a recruiter is an important step in accelerating your career.

 What qualities are important?

• Look for a firm or individual recruiter specializing in your field.  A specialist will be engaged with search assignments better targeted to your needs.  They understand the market, qualifications required and a network of companies where opportunities may exist.
• Look for a firm or individual with a history of successfully placing people in your field.
• Ask your network for recommendations.  They may be able to direct you to someone they know from past experiences.
• When speaking with a recruiter, ask about their experiences, qualifications and how they conduct search assignments for their clients.
• Ask about their policy of presenting candidates.  Do they “shop” your resume or do they review the opportunity with you and gain your approval before presenting your name and credentials?
• Ask about their professional certifications from national associations i.e. Society of Human Resources or the National Association of Personnel Services.
• Are they active in the local community and groups that promote your profession?
• Rapport is important to your success, so you need to identify recruiter(s) whom you like working with.

When speaking with a recruiter, let your personality come through.  They know culture fit between you and a company is very important, and knowing you beyond resume bullet points provides a better idea of what opportunities are best for you.

Recruiters can be a trusted resource throughout your career.  Even after finding a new opportunity, maintaining a strong business relationship will provide you a source for market insights and a career sounding board.

Gary Yaekle is the Managing Partner of Yaekle & Company, an executive search firm focused on connecting innovative companies with talented and experienced marketing and advertising professionals.