How to work with Recruiters
Build better relationships & improve your job search strategy
Learning how to work with recruiters effectively can be a turning point in your job search. When you know how to build the right relationships, communicate clearly & present your skills with confidence, recruiters become more than contacts, they become advocates. Here’s how to approach it in a way that supports your long-term career goals.
Understand the Recruiter’s Role
Recruiters are here to match people with opportunities. They work directly with employers but can also be a valuable resource for you. When you approach recruiters with clarity & professionalism, you are more likely to gain useful insights about hiring trends, market expectations & the types of roles that suit your strengths.
Find the right recruiters
Not every recruiter will be the right fit. Look for those who specialise in your industry or the type of role you’re aiming for. LinkedIn is a great place to start. Focus on recruiters who have a strong presence, positive recommendations & experience placing candidates at your level. A targeted approach leads to better conversations & better results.
Make a strong first Impression
Recruiters notice how you present yourself. Whether it is an introductory message or a formal interview, be clear about your goals & respectful of their time. First impressions set the tone. If you are thoughtful, open & prepared, you are far more likely to be remembered.
Communicate Career Change with Confidence
If you are considering a change in direction, don’t be afraid to talk about it. Recruiters understand career transitions; what matters is how you explain yours. Share your motivations, highlight what you have learned & be clear about the type of role you are now aiming for. Show that you are forward-thinking & self-aware.
Focus on transferable & Soft Skills
Many recruiters are looking beyond job titles. Communication, leadership, adaptability & critical thinking are skills that matter in every industry. Think about how you have used these in the past & how they apply to your future goals. Giving clear, real examples can help recruiters position you more effectively to clients.
Keep in touch
Working with a recruiter is not a one-off task. Once you’ve made a connection, stay visible. Keep them updated with changes in your job search, new qualifications or anything that strengthens your profile. Regular contact shows that you are engaged & committed to moving forward.
Why it Matters
Building strong relationships with recruiters gives you access to opportunities you might never see advertised. It also helps you stay informed & supported through what can often feel like a lonely process. If you want to take your job search seriously, knowing how to work with recruiters is a vital step.
This is also something we can explore together during one-to-one coaching. If you’re unsure how to approach recruiters, how to explain your story or how to position yourself for new opportunities, a coaching session can help you work through it all with clarity & confidence.
Learn more about one-to-one coaching here.
Take the next step
Want to understand more about your strengths & how to position yourself in the market? Start by answering a few questions here & immediately receive your own personalised report.
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