Just in case you were wondering ….
A strong, long-lasting relationship with a recruiter can work wonders for your career…Believe me, we speak from experience. Across our 25 years in the business, we have welcomed a wealth of candidates through our door, each with their own wants, needs, aspirations and expectations, both from their time with us and their future career. While we have said a fond farewell to some, we have also watched others blossom into inspiring professionals that, in some cases, have returned to us as clients looking for candidates of their own!
As with any relationship – be it personal or professional – a healthy and successful relationship with recruitment consultants comes from clearly understanding one another. We’re here to offer you inside knowledge to help you understand how to work with not only us, but recruiters as a whole.
1. Help us to help you
Nobody understands you or your situation as much as yourself, and so starting the relationship with a clear understanding of what it is you want from your job hunt is the best way to begin.
Spend some time thinking about your current position and which direction you want to take from it. Where do you want to be in a few years’ time? What do you want to have achieved by then? Are there any particular types of companies you’d love to work for? Are you looking for a challenge or something more comfortable?
It may seem a little daunting but this is just as important to us as it is to you. Having a clear sense of direction can help us to help you streamline your job hunt, and match your wants and needs with an ideal role.
2. First impressions count
We’re a friendly, enthusiastic and easy-going bunch, however we also understand the importance of professionalism. Just like any other recruiter you might meet, we expect candidates to present themselves in the same way that they would when meeting a potential employer. Reputation is key in a career and so providing a recruiter with a fabulous first impression, will only make them want to shout about how wonderful you are to clients.
Don’t leave us in suspense and get in touch! Follow-up emails after meetings, as well as notifying us of any changes to your applications throughout the recruitment process are greatly appreciated, and will ensure that your relationship and journey with us, runs as smoothly and efficiently as possible.
3. Trust – a key part of any relationship
As recruiters, it’s in our nature to offer help and advice based on our knowledge, experience and relationships with clients. We get to know employees and what they are looking for from candidates, from years of working together.
Trust in our relationship is a vital component in optimising your chances of finding a fantastic role. If we suggest that you make changes to your CV, interview strategy or even what to expect from the employment itself, it’s important to keep an open mind and to see this as positive criticism that will help you on your way.
4. Honesty is the best policy
Honesty from both you and the recruiter is essential to avoid any unfortunate consequences, further down the line. We are morally bound to be openly honest with any clients or applicants that we work with. As such, you can expect nothing but open, reliable communication from us, however recruiters expect the same from candidates.
It can be tempting to embellish your skills and experience when it comes to discovering a role that you would love to land, but it’s crucial to consider your future career’s reputation and speak truthfully about both your strengths and weaknesses. Why not follow up with anything that you are hoping to learn from a future role?
Taking the time and making the effort to build a strong relationship with your recruiter will not only help you to achieve the results that you were hoping for, but can begin to build your list of professional contacts – a valuable part of any career. So, if you are ready to begin the journey to find a fantastic role, our four step guide is a great starting point.
Rachel Campbell is a content writer for Creative Resource, specialist recruiters for PR, marketing, digital and creative roles.
Clara Wilcox is a straight talking, practical and experienced coach helping clients navigate the tricky waters of returning to work, career changes and professional development. The Balance Collective is a social enterprise focused on improving the lives of parents, by working together to build inner confidence and promote a healthy work/life balance.
