Maximizing the recruiter relationship

If you're looking for a full-time job, working with a good executive recruiter should be a part of your job search efforts. Recruiters are connected, informed, and don't cost you a thing.

But regardless of which recruiter you end up working with, there are several things you should know to maximize the relationship — and increase the potential for placement.

They aren't your personal job search bot

• Recruiters work for their client (the agency or company), not you (the candidate). That's why they don't cost you a thing.

You are their most valuable asset

• Good recruiters are only as good as the candidates in their database. So trust that if your skills and experience fit a search they're conducting, they'll definitely give you a call.

They get paid when you get hired

• Most independent recruiters are "contingent", which means they are paid only if they make a placement. They are paid a percentage based on the candidate's negotiated starting salary.
• Large recruiting firms usually work on "retainer", which means they get paid throughout the recruiting process whether they are successful or not.
• A recruiter's payment does not affect or come out of your salary.

Not all recruiters are created equal

• Ask colleagues and networking contacts for referrals to good recruiters.
• Consider recruiters that specialize in your area of expertise or desired geographic location.

Meet, greet and grill

• Try to meet with the recruiter in person to find out how they operate.
• Find out the types of clients they've worked with, and the types of candidates they've placed.
• Decide if you want to work with them. If so, give them "permission" to keep your resume on file.

You control your resume

• A reputable recruiter will always discuss an opportunity with you prior to presenting your resume to a potential employer.

Honesty is the best policy

• Once you've decided to work with a recruiter, be candid about your salary and position requirements. They can't present you unless they know what you're looking for.
• If they send you on an interview, contact them afterwards to discuss your interest and provide feedback on how it went.
• If you've already approached a client company yourself or through a networking source (and your resume is on file with them), tell your recruiter.

Keep in touch. Just keep it to a minimum

• Develop a relationship with a recruiter by keeping them up to date on your career.
• If you've accepted a new job or received a promotion, send your recruiter an updated resume to ensure their database stays current.
• Recruiters use their database to contact candidates that match their client's job specifications - and sometimes, the best career opportunities come when you aren't looking. (Client companies use recruiters to source candidates who aren't necessarily job hunting.) So provide recruiters with updated contact information (phone, address, e-mail). If we can't get in touch with you, your perfect job may never be presented to you.
• Don't follow up with a recruiter excessively — unless you are in the process of interviewing with one of their clients.