Read this before you call back that recruiter!
Maybe you've had a bad day; maybe you've been thinking about making a job change for a while. Either way, you've received a voicemail from a recruiter and are interested enough to return the call.
Use these tips to get the most out of the interaction!
After over 20 years in financial recruiting, I’ve learned that there’s no one path that is right for everyone. Work with a recruiter who understands that and is willing to treat you as an individual.
Use these tips to get the most out of the interaction!
- Not interested in the role you were called about? Ask about other searches he/she has performed in the last 2 years. Ask about the firm’s niche.
- The first part of the interview process is meeting with the recruiter. Take it seriously and realize that this person is evaluating you against to your peers.
- Anything worthwhile requires an investment of time. You want that recruiter to send you “great opportunities”? What’s great is highly personal and specific to you. Take time to discuss what you consider great.
- Be honest and expect honesty in return. Your recruiter can only help you if you are transparent.
- Be open to advice: many recruiters have been doing this for many years and have worked with hundreds or thousands of people like you. While everyone is unique, we take our experiences with others in similar situations to provide guidance and counsel.
- Be choosy: If you’re working with the right recruiter, they are much more than a pusher of paper. He/she will prepare you for the interview, will be able to share relevant information that’s not available on the company’s website, will facilitate the flow of information and negotiate terms, help you as you resign from your current employer and join the new company. Make sure you are comfortable with the process and feel that your recruiter is knowledgeable.
- The more specific your desired opportunity is, the MORE important that you have someone looking proactively for you.
- Scared about making a change? Think it’s better to stay where you are until you find the IDEAL role? The longer you stay in your current role, the more you are committing to that career path; you’re earning more, developing more experience and expertise. Frequently, it’s important to make a change to a “bridge” role that will help you ultimately move towards your desired long term path.
- Ask questions! Where will this role lead me to down the road? What positions have others in this role moved in to? How have others done at this company?
- Give a little to get a little. Recruiters are paid by the company. As an individual, you essentially get that recruiter’s very valuable time for free. Understand the benefit of giving referrals to recruiters. They will appreciate it and will work even harder for you.
After over 20 years in financial recruiting, I’ve learned that there’s no one path that is right for everyone. Work with a recruiter who understands that and is willing to treat you as an individual.
About Nicole DelToro: Nicole has been helping organizations (big and small) hire and retain top talent for over 25 years, while helping individuals realize their personal and professional goals by ensuring they’re working in the environment that’s ideal for their current situation. Contact her at: [email protected]
Andrews & Cole is a certified woman-owned boutique executive search and consulting firm with a focus on accounting and finance professionals. Clients range from start ups to Fortune 100 in nearly every industry.
Andrews & Cole is a certified woman-owned boutique executive search and consulting firm with a focus on accounting and finance professionals. Clients range from start ups to Fortune 100 in nearly every industry.