Job Hunting? 4 Ways to Work with a Recruiter

Job Hunting? 4 Ways to Work with a Recruiter

(DGIwire) – One of the fastest ways to land a new job is to work with a recruiter. Although some may think recruiters’ sole focus is cold-calling a star employee to lure them to a rival, the term also applies to those at staffing agencies who strive to place the best individual into a given position. According to the American Staffing Association, the staffing, recruiting and workforce solutions industry provides job and career opportunities for some 16 million employees per year. Here are some things to note when working with a recruiter:

1. Take the recruiter’s advice: The advice will aim at putting applicants in the best light when presenting them to clients. Whether it’s related to their resume, advice on answering commonly flubbed questions or a reminder not to chew gum during interviews, it is all with the best intentions.
2. Be comfortable with being open: It might seem awkward divulging professional details to a stranger but being open is the fastest way for employees to get what they want. Be prepared to discuss salary, reasons for leaving past positions, difficult situations at work and true hopes about long- and short-term career goals.
3. Follow-up once a week: Applicants should give their recruiter a solid and thorough weekly update of what’s going on in their job search. The recruiter should be kept informed of progress and any changes to help them identify the most appropriate available positions for the applicant.
4. Re-engage the recruiter for the next job search: Once a great recruiter has been identified, they shouldn’t be forgotten. The door is always open when there’s a need for new opportunities. Keep that information on hand for moments when a career needs a tune-up.

“Working closely and cooperatively with a recruiter can make all the difference when it comes to choosing whether or not to accept a new job,” says Michele Mavi, director of internal recruiting and content development at Atrium Staffing. “A good relationship can pave the way to having the best opportunities present themselves.”

Atrium is a New York City-based talent solutions firm, focused on providing contingent workforce solutions for mid-size and Fortune 500 companies in nearly every industry. Atrium’s expertise includes regional Temporary and Direct Hire Staffing, national Payrolling Services, national Independent Contractor Compliance and Intern Program Design. The company has extensive experience matching the right candidates for a range of positions within a variety of industries.

“Happiness in a professional role all depends on whether the job is the right fit, and a recruiter can be instrumental in ensuring that fit,” Mavi adds.