IE
GUEST COMMENT: How to make the most of recruiters
29 April 2010
Considering the tough job market conditions for financial services professionals in Ireland, I'm a big advocate of proactive search strategies, of taking steps to discover the hidden, or unadvertised job market.
Having said this, you would be crazy to completely ignore the 'low hanging fruit' or advertised jobs, and recruitment agencies are a key source of these. Talk of the demise of agencies as a viable job hunting strategy is a bit premature, and they are very much open for business actively placing jobseekers in new employment each day.
Making the most of fewer opportunities
The dynamic of the job market has changed dramatically over the last 18-24 months, with fewer opportunities and much more competition to land them. As a result, jobseekers must change their approach when utilising job search strategies and this includes how they manage recruitment agencies.
Get to know the right recruiters
It amazes me how many jobseekers take a scatter gun approach to sending CV’s to recruitment agencies often targeting agencies that do not service their skills or profession. Jobseekers should easily be able to identify suitable recruiters that focus on their profession. I would also highly recommend using your immediate network to identify suitable recruiters. One of the biggest challenges for a jobseeker is to get to talk to a recruiter. Networking is a great way to achieve this as it can offer a direct route to a recruiter. This approach can transform a cold contact with that recruiter into friendly relationship.
Follow up, but don't stalk
There is a fine line between staying in touch and stalking. No better way to end a relationship with a recruiter than to become a pest or too pushy. This said, you should try to take the lead with the relationship. When this is applied in a positive manner it will keep the jobseeker on the recruiter’s radar but also demonstrate jobseeker intent and energy to secure new employment. Jobseekers need to follow up CV submittals and even make contact prior to doing this. Jobseekers also need to establish a communication programme agreeing call/email schedules with the recruiter.
Don't expect too much
Job hunting can be a stressful and challenging exercise especially within the highly competitive market we currently face. It’s only natural that the temperature can rise and tempers fray. It is important to focus on building and maintaining relationships with recruiters as any bad blood doesn't help a job search. Accept that recruiters are very busy people and that you may not be their number one priority. Remember that a recruitment agency offers a free service for jobseekers and to pitch your expectations accordingly.
Jobseekers exploring career opportunities within the banking and finance sector then your success will be determined by your ability to navigate the turbulent job waters. Embrace new job search strategies BUT as importantly change how you approach traditional these. This includes how you select, engage and manage your relationship with recruiters.
Paul Mullan is a career expert, supporting jobseekers with career coaching, CV writing and interview coaching. For more information go to www.measurability.ie
