Seven questions to ask recruiters when they call
Comments (3) The delight with being recruited sometimes eradicates judgment. If you are a six-figure income executive, chances are you will be recruited on the telephone by recruiters not known to you. The recruiter calls with a terrific job opportunity and the timing is right, the position exactly what you want…and you forget to get the details about with whom you are dealing.
Here’s a check list of important information you should get when a recruiter calls:
- Get all the contact information immediately. Ask for correct spellings, web sites, phone numbers and any other details.
- What is your relationship with the company? This is another way of asking if they actually have the recruiting assignment. You’d be surprised how often recruiters go on fishing expeditions.
- Are you working with the hiring authority directly? You want to know how valid the information is. If it is filtered through HR, the answers are watered down and often, not current.
- Don’t ask if they are on retainer. Do ask if they have an exclusive arrangement for this search.
- Have you worked on behalf of this company before? This gives you a clue about the validity of the information and the probability they have the ear of the hiring authority.
- What should I expect? This is a way to learn the time frame, the recruiter’s style and how you can make the recruiter’s job easier. This also alleviates the stress of wondering when you will hear back. Set that expectation up front.
- Ask what the recruiter believes is the most compelling part of your background for this job. This opens a discussion that reveals the recruiter’s understanding for the position. It also gives you what you need to write a proper cover letter.
Establish a professional relationship at the beginning and much of the anxiety of working with someone you don’t know dissolves. If you are still leery, ask for references. You don’t want to disclose all your personal information to just anyone.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Rita Ashley is a career and job search coach for executives. In the last two years 98% of my clients achieved their goals within six months. Is it your turn? Contact me directly to discuss a customized solution.
Themocracy