Networking with a Recruiter in 4 Easy Steps

So you’re in the market for a new, and hopefully better, opportunity. Kudos to you for taking the leap. You’ve completed the monotonous task of prepping for your upcoming job search, but how about taking your preparation a step further? It’s never a bad idea to consider employing the free services of a recruiter because what harm can a little extra help do? While the thought of networking with a recruiter may sound promising, finding the right recruiter requires a bit of effort from the job seeker.

4 Ways to Start Networking With a Recruiter Now

So, just how important is networking here? More than just small talk at happy hour, effective career networking involves sharing knowledge, expanding your expertise, and helping others to grow professionally. If done right, networking can be the entryway to exciting opportunities one might otherwise miss. If you’re looking to connect with a recruiter, but aren’t sure where to begin, take a look at these few steps to kickstart your job search results

1. Update Your Resume

   For candidates, one of the most important steps is to always maintain an updated resume. Your resume should include details about relevant experience and skill sets related to the role you’re interested in. For example, if you’re looking for a job in tech, it’s important to note your exact certifications, software and/or hardware experience, etc. Candidates should remember that recruiters aren’t always experts in their field of interest themselves and thus, are paying specific attention to specific industry-related buzzwords when trying to identify job opportunities that would work for you.

2. Maintain a Social Media Presence

   Social networks, especially career-focused platforms like LinkedIn, are the go-to places for recruiters and candidates to connect. Job seekers on LinkedIn are encouraged to join groups. This helps connect with recruitment companies that align with the job you’re looking for. Try personalizing your connection message by explaining why you’re looking for the help of a recruiter. This includes asking if your skills and experience are something the recruiter is looking for.

   

3. Keep an Open Mind

   There is no doubt that recruiters are a valuable resource for candidates, however, maintaining realistic expectations is a must. It’s uncommon that a recruiter will have the perfect opportunity for you on standby. As a reminder, recruiters are hired by organizations that need help filling vacant positions. They will present you with opportunities that are available to them based on availability. This could mean leading you to a job in a different location or requiring you to learn a new skill. If the opportunity doesn’t match exactly what you had in mind, it doesn’t always make it the wrong move. In fact, it could open doors for new experiences that advance your career in the future.

4. Trust Your Recruiter

   Trust is an integral part of the candidate-recruiter relationship. That trust comes from both you and the recruiter proving loyalty and maintaining open communication. Even after the recruiter has placed you on a job, we suggest maintaining that relationship. This encourages the recruiter to consider you for future openings. Work hard to prove you’re someone they can count on to get the job done.  That way, should your skills not align perfectly with an open job, the recruiter will likely advocate for the skillset you possess.

How Glades Talent Can Help

Simply put; recruiters and candidates go hand in hand. As the market continues to evolve, candidates and recruiters are placing a larger emphasis on networking and cultivating relationships that lead to many future job placements. Our Glades Talent recruiters are passionate about helping motivated professionals discover what’s next in their lives.

Want want to help! If you have any questions for our recruiting team, visit Glades Talent to learn how we can help you achieve your professional goals today.