The Do's & Don't of Speaking with Recruiters

Written by Laura Trujillo

Navigating the job market can be daunting, but guess what? You have a secret weapon in your corner—your recruiter! They're not just intermediaries; they're influencers who play a pivotal role in shaping hiring decisions. They serve as the critical link between job seekers and employers, often influencing hiring decisions significantly. Picture us as the fairy godmother of your job search, wielding a magic wand to open new doors for you. Understanding their role and how to effectively communicate with them can be pivotal in your job search success.

Understanding the Recruiter's Role

Take it from a seasoned Workday Recruiter, we are often the first point of contact between you and your dream company. Recruiters act as the company's representatives, tasked with finding candidates who align with the job's skill requirements and the company culture. Their goal is to match the right candidates with the right roles, ensuring a fruitful partnership for both parties. Our little secret? We also double as your window into the company's soul, offering valuable insights and opportunities that other candidates might miss.

The Importance of Relationship Building

Who doesn't love making friends, right? Chatting up your recruiter is more than just friendly banter; it's an opportunity to peek into the heart of the position you're eyeing. Candidates can use this information to assess whether they are truly passionate about the role. When speaking with a Syssero recruiter, you'll receive all the information you need to determine if we're a good fit. What's more, knowing you well keeps you at the forefront of our minds for any future opportunities. We adore candidates who leave a lasting impression, show real interest in the role, and communicate openly. This way, we can offer you constructive feedback to improve your chances in future interviews.

Do's When Speaking with Recruiters

1. Come Prepared

• Research the Company: Before speaking to a recruiter, familiarize yourself with the company's mission, values, and recent news. This shows your interest and commitment. It’s like going to a party and knowing the host's favorite wine—always a winner!
• Highlighted Achievements and Brief History: Offer a concise overview of your work history related to the position you are applying for. Then provide concrete examples of your proudest accomplishments and relevant projects.?

2. Be an Active Participant

• Ask Thoughtful Questions: Show your curiosity and interest by asking about the company’s culture and growth opportunities.
• Put Distractions Aside: Show us that our conversation matters to you just as much as it does to us. Ensure you’re fully focused by muting other devices and putting distractions away.

3. Follow Up

• Express Enthusiasm: A quick follow-up after our conversation shows your interest and dedication. If an interview is on the cards, share your availability immediately.
• Feedback Loop: After each interview round, loop your recruiter in on how it went. It shows your proactive side and keeps us in the know.

Don'ts When Speaking with Recruiters

1. Avoid Vagueness

• Show and Tell: Clearly articulate your skills and past projects. Treat the conversation as your stage, a chance to showcase what you uniquely bring to the table.

2. Resist the Urge to Oversell

• Stay Honest: Being truthful about your skills is crucial. Overstating your abilities can backfire and damage your credibility.

3. Take Feedback Constructively

• Accept Graciously: A good attitude is crucial because it demonstrates humility and a willingness to learn, which fosters trust and respect in all relationships.
• Learn and Grow: Receiving feedback is part of the process. Use it to improve and prepare for future opportunities. Remember, feedback is meant to help, not hinder.

4. Never Ghost

• Keep the Conversation Going: If you’re no longer interested in a role, communicate openly with your recruiter. Ghosting can burn bridges and close doors to future possibilities.

Personal Insights

Having worked in recruitment for several years, I've learned that transparency and communication trump all. Candidates who engage openly and constructively often leave a lasting impression. An experience that stands out is guiding a candidate through feedback, seeing them use it productively, and ultimately landing the role. I’ve seen candidates improve drastically after taking feedback on board, which is truly rewarding. While the specifics of do's and don'ts may vary slightly from one recruiter to another, the core principles of honesty, engagement, and communication remain constant. By adhering to these, you not only enhance your chances of securing a job but also lay the groundwork for a lasting professional relationship with your recruiter.

The job market is competitive, but strategic interactions with recruiters can give you an edge. By preparing thoroughly, asking the right questions, and maintaining open communication, you can forge strong recruiter relationships that pave the way for career advancements. Remember, we are your teammates in this job hunt, and nurturing these connections can only boost your career trajectory.

Ready to put these tips into action on your job search? Start engaging with recruiters today, and take the first step toward your next big career move!