As a candidate, when it comes to enhancing your chances of securing your next role, there are some things to keep in mind when working with a recruiter. Whether it be ensuring your LinkedIn profile is fully updated, polishing your resume, or brushing up on interview tactics/strategy, there are many efforts that play a role in helping your overall chances of being found and placed by a recruiter.
However, there is one fundamental component that is key to a successful recruitment process (and it is often overlooked). Communication is key! The establishment of a fluid channel of communication with your recruiter is of utmost importance. Candidates should not undervalue this aspect of their recruitment journey.
WHY IS COMMUNICATION KEY TO A SUCCESSFUL RECRUITING PROCESS?
- It helps you stay up to date
By staying in touch with your recruiter, you can get timely updates on both current and new job opportunities that match your skills and experience. Recruiters need to keep you informed of any material updates, whether it be client updates, new opportunities or offer negotiations. If you aren’t staying in contact, there is a higher likelihood that your candidacy comes into question by the recruiter and ends in a pass on further considerations.
- It demonstrates your interest
Regular communication with your recruiter shows that you are committed to finding a job and you are serious about the opportunities they present to you. Little things such as providing your resume to your recruiter in a timely fashion or answering/calling your recruiter for status updates can build credibility and demonstrate that you are a committed candidate. If you are non-responsive and becoming a bottleneck in the process, recruiters will interpret your candidacy as non-committal, and will move on.
- It allows for feedback
The feedback loop between recruiter and candidate is of paramount importance. Recruiters will adjust the positioning of your candidacy to clients based on your candid feedback. Time kills all deals, so make sure your feedback is timely or you risk being left behind in the process.
- It builds a relationship
It should be no surprise that recruiters are in the relationship game, thus building a strong one with your contact will work to your advantage. Recruiters can take you and your skills to market, however if the relationship is established on poor/sporadic communication, it is likely that efforts made on your behalf will be minimized. On the contrary, if a strong rapport is established from frequent communication early on, a good recruiter will be more than willing to help you explore new opportunities. This communication is key so the recruiter will understand that you are a committed candidate.
COMMUNICATION BEST PRACTICES
- Pick up the phone and make/answer the call.
In a world reliant on email, be the candidate that feels comfortable calling/answering on their recruiter. Time kills all deals, and phone calls are the most efficient way to provide information/updates promptly. - Establish a communication cadence with your recruiter.
Recruiters understand that candidates are busy and do not always have time to take a call at lunch during work hours. This is perfectly okay, but let the recruiter know what the best methods are to reach you and more importantly when, even if that means after hours. - Remain transparent with your feedback.
A recruiter’s ability to work effectively on your behalf is dependent on your ability to communicate with them and provide candid feedback. Let your recruiter know if you have other offers on the table, a change of heart, or remain committed to a given opportunity. If the recruiter is out of touch with your sentiment on an opportunity it hinders their ability to find the role that best suits your wants and needs.
In conclusion, committing to wide open, timely, honest communications with your recruiter is the best way to help you stay informed, improve your job search, and build a strong relationship with them. Making a cognizant effort and decision to not be the bottleneck in the communication process can pay serious dividends in your recruitment journey, so we strongly encourage all candidates to not underappreciate its value.
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