We’ve addressed the topic of why you should work with an executive recruiter before (“6 Good Reasons to Work with a Recruiter on a Confidential Basis”).
So the value of working with a recruiter has been well documented. However, what about getting to the point where you can work with one? If recruiters are contacting you and asking if you’re open to considering a new employment opportunity, then that’s not a problem. But what if they’re not doing that? What then?
Below are five ways to get noticed by a recruiter in your niche:
#1—Send your resume to their firm.
Pretty straightforward, isn’t it? You can send your resume for a particular positions, or you could just send it and inform them that you’re interested in being considered for employment opportunities. Some recruiting firms have open positions posted on their website, which means you can visit the site, browse through the positions, and apply for the ones that interest you. (The application process usually entails creating an account and/or uploading a resume.)
#2—Proactively reach out to them in another way.
You don’t have to stop there. You can also email and/or call the recruiting firm. A word of caution: do NOT contact or send your resume to every recruiting firm that works in your industry. Conduct research and identify the most experienced and most successful firms. A recruiter does not want to present a candidate to their client if scores of other recruiters are presenting the same candidate. You might think it makes more sense to contact every recruiting firm and “blast” your resume, but it will do more harm than good.
#3—Participate (heavily) in social networking.
LinkedIn is the main social networking site, since that’s the one that caters to professionals. However, there’s still value in networking on sites such as Twitter and Facebook. The key is to stand out by participating, sharing ideas and articles, and positioning yourself as a provider of value to other people in the industry.
#4—Attend industry events.
This is in the same vein as participating on social networking sites. That’s because networking is the common theme. This is even more effective, though, because you’re meeting people face-to-face, including recruiters who are also attending the event. This will give you a better opportunity to connect with them and explain how you want to grow your career.
#5—Provide them with referrals.
Sometimes a recruiter will have a job for which you will not be a fit. Do not despair. If you can, provide them with the names of colleagues or other people you know who are a fit and might be open to a new opportunity. The recruiter will remember that you provided the referral, and they will keep you in mind in the future.
Are you open to new employment opportunities right now? Are you currently in the midst of a job search? Find an experienced recruiting firm, one that has a proven track record of success and results, and send your resume. Get noticed and get placed in a great job!
We help support careers in one of two ways: 1. By helping to find the right opportunity when the time is right, and 2. By helping to recruit top talent for the critical needs of organizations. If this is something you would like to explore further, please send an email to stacy@thevetrecruiter.com.