How to choose a recruiter that’s right for you

Not all recruiters are created equal. Here’s how to choose a recruiter that’s right for you.

Why it’s worth choosing a recruiter that’s right for you

Good recruiters know the industries they work in and the positions they recruit for. They know the companies active in their region, state and nationally as well as their structure, perks, and the type of staff they employ. It’s very likely they have existing relationships with the hiring managers, knows the company’s values, and are aware of the organisation’s five-year plans and aspirations.

With intel, it’s also likely they will be able to make a good judgement call on whether a company will be a good fit for you. Taking into consideration your experience, career aspirations, personal needs, and incentives that appeal to you.

Signs you have a recruiter that’s right for you

• They ask questions about your career and what’s important to you.
• They listen to what you say.
• They have industry knowledge, on par or more than your own.
• They understand your strengths.
• They understand the Australian job market and how this might affect salaries or skills in demand.
• They can speak to the team dynamics at the company.
• They have placed candidates with the company before.
• They provide advice related to your career progression rather than just your placement with the company.
• They provide advice about how to prepare for an interview with the hiring manager.
• They ask about your long-term goals.
• They understand the current job market.
• They have worked with many leading organisations in your industry.

Signs you don’t have a recruiter that’s right for you

• They will blindly present your CV to a client.
• They don’t speak of an existing relationship with the hiring manager.
• They pressure you to make decisions.
• They do not listen to your career needs, wants or aspirations.
• They don’t understand team dynamics in the company.
• They don’t have a solid client list.
• They don’t offer advice related to your career or upcoming interviews.
• They don’t regularly check in with you.

How to choose a recruiter that’s right for you

A recruiter can help to open doors for you, but only if they treat you as a priority. Ensure you choose a recruiter that’s right for you by observing these tips:

Ask how they came across your information

In a candidate-rich market, it’s common for recruiters to reach out to a candidate unsolicited. If this is the case, ask how the recruiter got your details. This could be from updating your CV on SEEK, a stellar recommendation from a colleague or from a search on LinkedIn.

If the recruiter does not approach you with an understanding of your background and why you might be suitable for the role, this is a small flag they may not be the right recruiter for you. In this instance, the recruiter may have cold contacted several qualified candidates and they may not be matching like for like between candidate and opportunity.

Ask how the recruiter will work with you

Before you become exclusively represented by a recruiter, ask how they will work with you. How often will you speak? Will they only be putting your CV forward for one company? If new opportunities become available, will they consult you before putting your CV forward?

You need to be certain the recruiter will champion your needs and wants, and that your expectations are aligned before beginning an exclusive recruitment consultant relationship.

Ask to meet the recruiter face to face

While emails may be a quicker and easier way to get your CV in front of the hiring manager, this is not always the best call. Ask to meet the recruiter face to face. It’s much harder to get an understanding of their personality and professionalism over the phone or through email.

If you are working professionally with someone, you want to be sure you understand their quirks and the way they work just as they do you. The best recruiters will also be the ones who want to meet you face to face so they can have a clear understanding of your career history and what makes you tick.