There are thousands of sincere, dedicated Recruiters available to help you find a new job. Whatever profession you’re in, there are Recruiters who specialize in your industry. Unfortunately, as in all professions, there are hack Recruiters too. The trick is to find a Recruiter who works in your industry, won’t waste your time, and operates ethically. My advice as a Recruiter with over a decade of recruiting success, is to search for a Recruiter online, or through networks like Linkedin. Beware of the sweat shops who hire new Recruiters only to chew them up and spit them out, battered and bruised because of inadequate training and a poor work environment. How do you spot an operation to avoid? If they demand you come into their office with your resume but carefully sidestep the question of available job opportunities, beware. If you have extra time, visit this type of body shop operation but be ready for them to try and push you into a job that you were not trained for, that pays less than your industry, and that is not in your best interest. Those organizations hurt the reputation of all Recruiters. If you do visit one, make sure you stick to your goals. If you have a professional presentation and a solid skill set, they should contact employers on your behalf and get you an interview. Your career is important. If they won’t bother doing their job well, walk away. To often they want your resume and personal information for their data bank. Guard your personal information. Keep contacting Recruiters until you find one with knowledge and experience in your industry. Be prepared to tell them what you want in your next position. How many miles are you willing to commute? Would you take a lateral move? Do you want a large corporation or small to midsize operation? What kind of responsibilities can you handle? Let them know about anyone who has a copy of your resume. When you present yourself to a Recruiter, describe yourself with facts. Keep your introduction brief; about 30 – 40 seconds. “Hi Recruiter. My name is Sally Smith. I have 7 years of accounting experience working for a small firm. I got my CPA designation last year and have a 4 year degree. Do you have a client who can use someone with my background?” Then be quiet. Let the Recruiter think. Recruiters have a wealth of knowledge and should guide you through their process. Ask questions and be ready to take action. If you don’t go on interviews you cannot expect a job offer. Always do your best. When you get a job offer, let your Recruiter know if you have any reservations or if there is something missing you want from the employment offer. Recruiters negotiate special deals everyday. The more you understand about how Recruiters work, the better your odds are of finding your dream job.
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