Guide to Working with a PR Recruiter: Your Questions Answered

Navigating the fast-paced world of PR alongside recruiters can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you've had a negative encounter with a recruiter in the past or you're unsure about the process, it's important to know that there are exceptional recruiters who can help you find your ideal PR job and take your career to the next level.

If you're unsure about the process or want to learn how to make the most out of your collaboration with a recruiter, keep reading.

How do recruiters get paid?

Many PR job seekers are curious about how recruiter commissions work. Contrary to common belief, these commissions typically come from a separate budget and do not affect your salary. Also, being open about your current salary and the salary you hope to achieve in your next PR role can save time. For example, if you reach the offer stage and the company offers you less than your previous salary, it would have been more helpful to have been transparent about your salary from the start. Reputable recruiters aim to find the right fit for you and the employer, so being upfront about your expectations is important.

How can I determine if a recruiter is the right fit for me?

Many PR professionals are hesitant to work with recruiters because of past experiences or misconceptions. The key to a successful partnership is open communication and building trust. If you're thinking about collaborating with a PR recruiter, ask questions and express your curiosity. Inquire about their process, how they evaluate potential candidates, and the types of PR roles they typically recruit for. If their answers don't satisfy you, or if you have any concerns, it may be beneficial to look for a different partner.

What are the benefits of working with a PR recruiter?

One of the greatest advantages of working with a PR recruiter is their in-depth understanding of the job market. They have access to PR job openings that may not be publicly advertised and can effectively position you as the ideal candidate. Recruiters also tend to have strong relationships with hiring managers, allowing them to advocate for you in a way that a generic job application cannot.

While recruiters ultimately aim to fill a role for their clients, it's important to recognise that they are not there to be your best friend. However, this doesn't mean that you can't establish a mutually beneficial relationship. The more you share about your PR goals, skills, and experience, the better the recruiter will be able to match you with suitable opportunities.

In summary, transparency, curiosity, and readiness to collaborate are key to easing any reservations about working with PR recruiters.

If you are a PR/comms agency professional considering working with a recruiter to secure your next PR job, feel free to reach out to PR CROWD - email: [email protected]