If you’re planning a job search, it’s worth considering sending your resume to one or more recruiters. Involving a recruiter in your search has several benefits.
Exposure to the Hidden Job Market
Some experts suggest that up to 80% of jobs are not advertised using traditional methods. These jobs are not advertised, and as such they’re referred to as being part of the hidden job market. Employers often hire recruiters to find employees to save them the time and hassle of advertising and conducting job interviews, or in cases where they prefer to keep their employment opportunities confidential. A recruiter can put you in touch with companies you didn’t know were hiring, and give you a chance at jobs that you’d never hear about otherwise.
Exposure to Specific Jobs
Some recruiters work for employers in specific industries. If you’re targeting a particular industry or field, working with a recruiter who specializes in that field can help you eliminate the jobs that aren’t relevant to your career focus.
Time Constraints
For you as a job seeker, working with a recruiter can save you plenty of time. They’ll not only give you access to the untapped job market; they’ll also do it on their time and not yours. If you’re currently employed while you’re searching for a new job, the services of a recruiter can be invaluable.
Compensation Negotiation Help
In many cases a recruiter will help you negotiate your compensation package if you’re offered a job by an employer they’re working for.
This can remove much of the “guesswork” involved in negotiating, as a good recruiter will have extensive knowledge of the current market value for your position. You can also use a salary calculator to give you a ball park number.
The Service is Free for Job Seekers
A recruiter’s fee is paid by the employer, not the job seeker. For you, it’s completely free. Note, however, that this is because the employer has hired the recruiter to find them an employee, and working with a recruiter does not guarantee that they’ll find you a job.
This means that in most situations working with a recruiter should not take the place of a job search. A recruiter can expand your network, but since there’s no guarantee they’ll find work for you, it’s usually best to make your own job search a priority and consider a recruiter as just one of many possible ways of finding a job.
For additional help please review our Tools to Find a Job section.
{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
Nice article. Recruiting has unfortunately gained a bad reputation with some job seekers. The key is finding the right company & the right recruiter. The relationship should be two-way and both parties should gain from the experience.
Many employers use staffing firms to help manage a large amount of openings. This could be the only way to get your resume in front of the hiring manager. Find a company that has a good client base and a recruiter who takes the time to get to know you and your career goals and you’ll find them to be a valuable asset to your network!
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JoAnn: Unfortunately, you are correct about some firms having a bad reputation…and unfortunately that gives the quality firms a bad name too.
As far as getting your name in front of a hiring manager, a good way is to find a quality recruiter that specializes in your industry or market. The best way to do this is to ask others in your business. Find out if they have been in touch with a recruiter that they believe understands your industry. Usually, a handful of names will keep surfacing. Once you have the names, take a proactive approach and reach out to them.
You really do want a recruiter that specializes in your market for the best representation.
Hi
I received an MBA degree from the University of Phoenix, July 17, 2010.
I am considering going to a recruiter to help me find employment. Are there recruiters in Tampa, West Palm Beach and Orlando Florida? I was told by a young lady that’s how she acquired the job she has now.
Thank-you.
try out www (dot) cesfl (dot) com. they should be able to help you, or atleast get you headed in the right direction
I can’t believe I’ve been going for years without knowing that.