How to Utilize a Recruiter
Dear Jenny,
I‘m ready to start my job search, but frankly, I’m overwhelmed by the process. I don’t really know where to start and I don’t have a ton of time to spend on jobs that aren’t the right fit. I’m still working, so time is a precious resource and I could use some help finding the right opportunities for me.
Thanks,
Job Search Sam
Dear Sam,
I hear where you’re coming from. Job searching should be an empowering, fun, and exciting experience for job seekers, but it is not always like that. Many people spend months looking for work without much success because they don’t know how to use the tools available to them effectively. In addition, many job seekers don’t learn how to navigate the job market in this economy.
Over the years I’ve been a recruiter, I have spoken with hundreds of other recruiters and hiring managers. They all agree that cold-calling a recruiter is one of the best ways to get your resume seen by hiring managers and receive quality referrals for jobs. So I want to help you get started in the best possible way. Therefore, I have put together a quick list of cold calling tips for those job seekers who are just getting started with their job search:
- Make sure that your resume is up to date and includes all critical information, including your most current position and your education. You can take this opportunity to make sure that your resume is free of grammatical errors and typos. Then, when you call a recruiter, they will see that you are serious about finding work, which will help build rapport with the recruiter.
- Once your resume is updated, write down all of the companies you want to work for in the next few years. Make a note of any job titles, company locations, or industry sectors that would be a good fit for you. You may have to research these companies to find the appropriate person to contact to make a cold call.
- You can call the company’s recruiter if they have one, but many don’t. In this case, don’t be afraid to work with third-party recruiters (that’s what Placed, LLC is) to assist in breaking into companies where you don’t have a contact.
- Make the most out of your phone call. Ask thoughtful questions about the process and be polite. Treat this as a first-stage interview for your future dream job.
- When cold calling, do not try to apply for jobs through the recruiter. The point of making a cold call is to get your resume seen by hiring managers and receive quality referrals for job openings. If you ask a recruiter about opportunities directly, they will probably just refer you to the website or make a few calls on your behalf.
- Be ready with your elevator speech before you make a cold call. You should be able to describe your career goals without having to think hard about them in the moment. Your goal should be to find out who the hiring manager is for a particular company.
The key is to be sure that you are credible, professional, and persistent. Keep calling until you reach someone in the hiring department of a company or until you get a voicemail from the recruiter.
The job search process can be tedious, but it is more effective if you know what to do. I hope this helps!
Sincerely,
Jenny
