5 Tips for Working with Executive Recruiters

5 Tips for Working with Executive Recruiters5 Tips for Working with Executive RecruitersExecutive recruiters are a great resource when making a career change. Yet, we all know recruiters are overwhelmed with applicants and open jobs. Most professional recruiters handle hundreds of calls, emails, and messages every day.When working with a senior recruiter you have to stand above the rest. How do you get your resume to the top of the list? How do you become the person a recruiter is excited to speak with?You have to be memorable.Stand out to executive recruiters by following these 5 tips below.1. Choose a recruiter with good reviewsRead the reviews and comments when considering an independent recruiter or agency. Be picky. You want a good recruiter who takes the time to get to know you.Find someone who is responsive, professional, and well versed in your field. Someone with a strong network.Search recruiting agency reviews on Yelp, Glassdoor, and Facebook. You might also want to resear ch executive recruiters on LinkedIn.Professional recruiters with positive recommendations and endorsements can be trusted. Steer clear of recruiters with a lot of negative reviews.2. Heres how to go to the interview preparedMany people dont realize a short meeting or phone call with a recruiter is actually an interview. If you are meeting in person, arrive in professional attire with your resume in hand.For a video interview, make sure your background is free of clutter and looks presentable.For a voice call interview, make sure there is limited background noise.On a call, always sit up tall and act as if you are in front of the recruiter. This will come through on the call. First impressions are key. They can make or break your chances of moving forward with the interview process.3. Be prepared with a list of potential jobs or companiesIts important to be clear on the type of work you are looking for as well as your career goals. A senior recruiter can coach you on some of this, bu t they will need a place to start.Recruiters are swamped with applicants and open jobs. Show your recruiter that you are the strongest candidate for the job.Be invested in their job search process.4. Respect the recruiters expertiseIf your recruiter asks you to send your resume in a certain format, do so. Pay close attention to their resume suggestions and interview advice.Ask for feedback. Let them guide you and ask how you can improve your chances. Follow instructions when they send you on an interview.Ask them how to follow up after the interview. Dont be surprised if your recruiter asks you to send out thank you letters/emails to the people you interviewed with.Follow their lead. Your executive recruiter has inside knowledge about the company you are applying to. Use that to your advantage.5. Build a strong relationship with your recruiterFollow up regularly but be respectful of their time. Weekly check-ins via email are an easy way to stay in touch.Be a resource by recommending others if you are notlage the perfect fit for a job. Its ok to admit you are not the best fit.This will make you more memorable and your recruiter will appreciate your help.At the end of the dayThe job search is a frustrating and lengthy process. It doesnt have to be miserable.Learn from each experience. Be accountable and expect the same from your recruiter.The perfect job is out there for you. Stay positive and keep moving forward.P.S. Did you know you can hire a recruiter to find your next job?