How not to Annoy Job Recruiters
Recruiters are important allies for people looking for work, but job hunters often unknowingly sabotage their chances of getting a job by annoying recruiters in all kinds of ways. It's often the little things that cause a recruiter to forget about a candidate in a hurry even if this person seems like a perfect fit for the job. If you're looking for a job and decide to call upon a recruiter for help avoid these pitfalls to make the relationship beneficial.
Have a good attitude
This is likely the best way to get things rolling with a recruiter. It's a challenge to keep a positive attitude when the job market doesn't have many opportunities, and you watch as bills pile up and money runs out. However, if a even a glimmer of negativity comes through when speaking to a recruiter in person or over the phone, your name will go down to the bottom of the list and you won't get called back.
Be clear about your future
Recruiters are in a good position to assist when you have a good idea of where you would like your career to go. If you have no clue and expect the recruiter to fill in the blanks, you will hit a wall. How can a recruiter help if you can't help yourself?
Avoid asking if a recruiter can find a job for you
That's not how this process works. Recruiters work for their clients, not the candidates. If a position becomes available and you're a good fit then you will be contacted for an interview. Until then, your resume will stay in the recruiter's database. That's all you can expect, really.
Know that the recruiter is working with other candidates
If you're looking for work and having a tough time getting an interview hassling a recruiter won't speed things up, even if your resume has been read and your qualifications are attractive to a hiring manager. Calling once a week isn't a problem, but constantly phoning a recruiter and asking for a status update is. Put yourself in the recruiter's position. Would you appreciate a job seeker annoying you every other day when there isn't any news?
Other mistakes to avoid
Submitting horrible resumes – Check and double check spelling and grammar. Recruiters can't help if this important document has mistakes.
Lying about your credentials – This isn't a smart thing to do when looking for work and you will stay unemployed for a long time.
Not responding to emails or phone messages – If you scored a different gig, tell the recruiter so he or she doesn't have to spend two or three days trying to contact you.
Being rude/combative/abusive – Do you think recruiters want to deal with these types of individuals?
Recruiters don't have an easy job and it's wise to treat them with respect. It will create a win-win situation for you and them.
