“I’m not looking right now.” “I just started a new job.” “I’m not interested at this time.” These are common responses that recruiters hear when attempting to connect with potential candidates. They reveal a lack of understanding of the real benefits of working with professional recruiters for the advancement of their careers.
There are two common recruiting approaches typical of many search consultants. The first are those “headhunters” who tend to work with you only when you are a potential fit for a current opening that they are trying to fill. I call these “Transactional” recruiters. If you turn out not to be a good fit for their current opportunity, you can expect to never hear back from “Transactional” recruiters.
The second types are those that consider your career prospects and look to form a long-term relationship. I call these “Networking” recruiters. They build a database of strong candidates, so they can know their markets and identify candidates as staffing needs surface. You should view “Networking” recruiters as your career consultants. OneSource Professional Search is this type of search and placement firm.
The nature of your relationship with “Networking” recruiters depends on several factors. These include your qualifications, your career aspirations, the recruiter’s specific processes, and of course, the job market. It also is affected by your approach to the relationship. Recruiting is a business and as a candidate you should approach the relationship with the recruiter seriously. Be professional, prepared and most importantly, honest.
Working with a “Networking” recruiter requires building a relationship, often even before they have an opportunity to present to you. “Not currently looking” is not a good reason to decline working with a “Networking” recruiter. This is because the relationship that you build may benefit you in several ways, including informing you of changing marketplace conditions, keeping you up to date with compensation and benefits, and alerting you to new opportunities in the hidden market.
How do you build this relationship? First, by taking the advice mentioned above: being professional, prepared and honest. Second, by helping to identify other candidates and providing referrals. Third, offering information regarding changing market conditions or key developments in your niche back to the recruiter. Finally, by staying in touch or responding when the recruiter reaches out to you. It never hurts to network a little. So, when the reach out happens, say, “Yes, I’m interested!”
Contact us at OneSource Professional Search to further your professional networking and start a relationship with your career consultants!
