Establish a Rapport
• Face-to-face meetings allow the recruiter to get the best sense of your personality and skills.
• Let the recruiter know if there are any changes in your job status. This will save both you and the recruiter time and effort.
Be Upfront and Honest
• Letting the recruiter know exactly what you are looking for will save time and effort and provide a greater chance for a better match. If you want work in specific industries, locations or have a salary expectation, inform the recruiter.
• If you are working with multiple recruitment firms it is pertinent to let the recruiter know so you will not be presented by multiple agencies for the same role.
• If you found a position on the recruiters website you feel is suitable, be sure to let them know.
• If you have found a job or are no longer searching, inform your recruiter.
Respond Quickly to Recruiter’s Requests
• Especially when looking for temporary or contract roles, responding to the recruiter’s request that day – versus two days later – could mean the difference between securing the position and losing out on the opportunity.
Use Recruiters as a Resource
• Recruiters look through hundreds of résumés; ask for suggestions on ways to improve.
• After the initial face-to-face meeting, ask for feedback including interview suggestions and tips.
Don’t Take It Personal
• Recruiters are ultimately paid by client companies that have very specific requests for candidates, including industry background, experience, technical skills, fit with their work environment, and much more. Although recruiters will often present several candidate profiles to their clients for consideration, it is up to the client to decide whether or not to interview the candidate.