Working With Executive Recruiters: Check In From Time To Time

Working through the recruiting and selection process can be a very challenging time for job-seekers.  Feedback from the hiring manager and/or the recruiter is priceless.  The lack of feedback can be very frustrating.  Recruiters understand the frustration well, as we must “get the job” before we can begin working on a search assignment.   Many years ago, while I was still an employee, a great Executive Recruiter and friend told me that “sometimes, no news is no news.”  In other words, thank you for calling, but I have no relevant update for you at this time, so relax.  Recently I heard a slightly different twist on that line, whereas “no news is no interest.”  Regrettably that is often the case.  It is still very important to maintain a healthy relationship with your recruiter, so you need to check in from time to time.  The point is to make your contact productive and unobtrusive. 

As a candidate for a particular search, you should know that you are not the only candidate for that search.  For that matter, it is important to understand that your recruiter is working multiple searches.   She is working with a number of candidates over a number of different assignments.  What that means is that communication from the recruiter could take some time to get to you.  So, a periodic checking-in will be useful for the both of you. 

A phone call is obvious, but there are no guarantees you will make an immediate connection.  In this case, just make sure that your voice mail message is clear and concise.  Ensure that your identity is provided, including your telephone number.  Fortunately, most voice mail systems provide the option to review your message before sending.  Using this feature is a good idea.  It is not uncommon for me to receive unintelligible messages, usually someone calling from a weak cell.  I will have their phone number on caller ID, but not their message.  Email and SMS messages can be much more effective for a simple check-in, resulting in a more immediate response.   These should be your primary tools.

It is equally important to let the hiring manager know of your continued interest as well.  Every contact provides you with an opportunity to send a thank you note.  Remember, a thank you note is not just an expression of gratitude.  It is another opportunity to sell your capabilities and to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the job.  This is an important task that must be appreciated, so much so that you should include your recruiter in crafting the message.  She knows the client’s needs and their hot buttons.  She will help you craft a note that makes an impact.  More importantly, she can save you from sending a counter-productive message.

It is vital to stay connected to your recruiter while you are a candidate for a current search as well as for future opportunities.

·       Express your enthusiasm and continued interest.

·       Availability to provide additional information

·       Update the recruiter as to your status and travel plans

·       Just to say ‘thank you’ especially post interviews.

To ensure that you stay connected to the recruiter to be considered for future opportunities consider the following:

·       Become connected on LinkedIn

·       Join the recruiter’s mailing list

·       Send periodic updates as to your situation via email.

·       Ensure that the recruiter has your current resume.

Follow these tips to become a savvy candidate.

Key Points to Consider:

1.     Check in periodically.

2.     Keep your recruiter in the loop.

3.     Become connected to the recruiter on social media.

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Jim Weber, President
New Century Dynamics Executive Search
Author of: Fighting Alligators: Job Search Strategy For The New Normal

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