by Beverly Aarons
19. June 2009 08:30
Many job seekers would probably say that the job search is a numbers game. In some respects that's true; but a job search is also a game of building valuable relationships that payoff over time. That's why properly positioning yourself with the right recruiter is an important job search strategy. Let's take a look at how job seekers can increase the odds of being chosen by the best recruiters:
1. Search for recruiters who are a good match for your work experience, skills and goals. For example, if you're a bankruptcy attorney, it may not be wise to seek out recruiters who specialize in litigation.
2. Build a relationship with the recruiter before you need the job. This advice may be a little late for most people reading this, so in that case build a relationship with the recruiter while you're searching for a job. Offer "value" to the recruiter such as sending him/her valuable referrals or information. When you add "value" to a recruiter it increases the chances that you'll remain at the top of his/her list when a position does become available.
3. Update and improve your job skills and experience to increase your marketability and inform the recruiter as you make these changes.
4. Stay in touch with the recruiter; but don't inundate the recruiter with phone calls and emails asking if they have any open positions. Be patient and follow-up with the recruiter occasionally while you work on other aspects of your job search.