understanding, and respect—because we never
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Ten Tips for Selecting and Working with Executive Recruiters
By Susan Paley Zak and Dori Lieber
Establishing a relationship with an executive recruiter can be a valuable way for you to save time and extend your reach beyond your own network. Many managers and executives obtain their positions based on the recommendation of a trusted recruiter. Here are ten tpos for selecting and working with Executive Recruiters.
1. Selecting a recruiter
Ask for referrals from:
- Friends
- Professional associates
- Former bosses
- HR Manager (from your last job and where you have not been hired)
- Hiring Managers (from where you have not been hired)
- Contacts in your professional trade association
2. Develop relationships with four to five recruiters in a geographic area
Your list may grow or shrink as you deal with different recruiters and as you obtain referrals from your network. Too many and they could start tripping over each other.
3. Remember a recruiting firm is as good (or bad) as the individual you are dealing with.
With 190 firms in the area, the best endorsement is I haven’t heard anything bad about them.
4. Call and check them out.
If you weren’t referred to someone specific, ask for the person who specializes in your discipline.
5. Questions for the recruiter
- How long in the business?
- How long with that firm?
- Clarify how they work (Won’t refer you for a position until they have talked to you about first to determine that is a position you are interested in and can do.)
- Ask for an appointment.
Be nice, be professional. Be honest with recruiters, we are your advocates. We have to tell your story with passion and enthusiasm.
6. Are they contingency or a retained search firm?
Do you know the difference?
7. Select only those recruiters who instill a high degree of confidence. You are under no obligation.
Don’t sign anything that obligates you.
8. Once you have determined whom you are going to work with, stay in touch and nurture the relationship.
Call every two to three weeks to keep them apprised of the types of positions you are interviewing for. Share information.
9. Remember – you can’t turn down a job until you have an offer.
Keep an open mind, within reason.
10. Much of the job search process is about luck and timing – being in the right place at the right time.
But remember you make your own luck by putting yourself in the right place at the right time. You may have more control over your destiny than you think!
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