As a recruiter it is important to maintain proper boundaries in the recruiter/client relationship.  As we have mentioned in the previous article, many clients do not understand the recruiter process which can cause confusion and anxiety for the client.  Keeping communication clear and useful is one way of helping clients understand the recruiter process; but maintaining proper boundaries will also do the job and help you maintain a professional image and relationship. Let's take a look at the number one mistake recruiters make that may allow clients to inadvertently violate professional boundaries and thus reduce their professional image:

Carrying your client's "bags" and being the go to guy/girl for things that have nothing to do with your role as a recruiter. For example, a client may ask you to create a job description for them and as a recruiter you go ahead and do it because you want to give excellent customer service.  But creating a job description is not the responsibility of the recruiter and may actually hinder the recruiting process because the recruiter does not know the needs and requirements of the job.  It is the responsibility of the client to create job descriptions which will help you find the right candidate who fits their real needs, not the needs you may have imagined while creating their job description.  

When clients request you to perform duties that are not your responsibility or hinder the recruiting process, it is critical to remind the client of the important role you play in helping them meet their business goals. We know it's difficult to help a client refocus their relationship with you; but simply say to them: “I don't think that using my resources for this task will help you solve your staffing problem. As a professional recruiter, these are the skills I can use to help you." And then simply spell out how you can help them solve their recruiting problems. By correcting clients when they violate professional boundaries, you will create a long-lasting relationship built on respect and reciprocity.