How to Work with Your Recruiter

If you trust your recruiter and want to maximize the relationship, here are 5 things you should be doing:

1. Return calls and answer questions promptly. The recruiter is calling on behalf of the client, and when clients want something, they want it now. Don’t delay because the client has requested the information and wants to evaluate you immediately. You don’t know how long that window will be open.
2. Stay top of mind. If you are actively looking for a job, be pleasant and easy to work with. If you are not actively looking for a job, you still don’t know when you might be or when you need valuable information on the market. So stay in touch with your recruiter, help them out when you can, and don’t be a pest.
3. When your recruiter strongly suggests you meet someone, you should do it. You should always be growing your connections.
4. Treat everyone well, not just when you are talking to the hiring manager introduced by the recruiter. You are being evaluated at all times from everyone ranging from the recruiter to the admin, and you will be remembered by your actions. Better to be remembered for your kindness and class.
5. Be easily accessible. Have a LinkedIn profile (with a good picture!) to make staying in touch easy. Use a reliable email system that does not require extra verification/security measures for an email to reach you. Your cell should have an outgoing message – I hate leaving confidential messages on cell phones that don’t identify the recipient.