When SHOULD You Talk to a Recruiter? Earlier Than You Think
While you shouldn’t be approaching recruiters if you’re perfectly happy in your current job, you should start to approach recruiters before you need a new job ASAP. If you’re coming to a recruiter for the first time after quitting, being laid off or getting fired – you’re going to have to play catch-up.
There are several reasons to reach out to a recruiter before you think you might need one. First, you can let the recruiter know who you are. Second, provide the recruiter some sense of your skills and experience. Finally, let the recruiter know what you might be looking for in the near future.
Laying this groundwork means the recruiter at least has you in mind if an opportunity comes up. It also makes things easier if you want to ramp up your job search efforts.
By the way, if a recruiter tells you not to contact them unless you are looking for a job – move on to someone else.
What to look for in a recruiter
In addition to being open to speaking with someone who isn’t desperate for a new job, a recruiter should specialize in your particular industry. You should also try to partner with a recruiter that you actually like working with.
If you have to choose between an annoying recruiter specialized in your niche and a pleasant recruiter who isn’t as laser-focused, go with the latter. It’s important you trust your recruiter and feel they understand your needs and objectives.
You should also be wary of recruiters with loose ethics. Most recruiters are consummate professionals with high ethical standards. However, there are a few who will do whatever it takes to earn a buck. That might take the form of pushing a job you aren’t a great fit for (since they get paid for a placement), or having your resume email-blasted to hiring personnel across the U.S. and Canada.
What to give a recruiter
A recruiter generally isn’t a technology expert. Therefore, make it simple for a recruiter to receive and read your resume and cover letter. Prior to sending your resume, ask the recruiter how they want to receive it: email, fax, etc. Be sure to send the most impressive, pristine and concise resume you can.
When sending in a cover letter, don’t count on it to convey crucial details. Cover letters have a tendency to get lost, and often don’t even get read. Your cover letter should be short: Include the geographic scope of your job search, supplemental information not found on your resume and your salary expectations.
Recruiters have to know your salary requirements so they don’t send you job postings that pay less than what you’re looking for. They don’t expect you to take a pay cut, and giving them your salary expectations guides them in their decision making.
Talk With the Best Supply Chain Recruiter
At ZDA, we connect skilled professionals to the opportunities that are best for them and their careers. If you’re currently looking to work with a supply chain recruiter that has your best interests in mind, please contact us today.
