Recruiters, also known as headhunters or search consultants, can serve as invaluable career advancement allies. With their industry expertise and connections, they can often share industry insight and “hidden” opportunities—the ones that aren’t advertised publicly. They’re also well suited to assist you in navigating a confidential search.

Before becoming a career coach, I spent over 25 years in the recruiting industry, 22 of them leading my own practice. Drawing on that experience, I’d like to share some tips on building mutually beneficial relationships with recruiters and turn them into career advancement allies.

1. Specialization Matters

Recruiters who specialize in your industry are more likely to bring you job opportunities that align with your goals. Make sure they demonstrate an understanding of the work you do and ask for examples of successful searches.

2. They Value Relationships with Candidates

Successful recruiters understand the importance of striking a balance between their relationships with their clients and candidates. Sure, you aren’t the one paying their placement fee, but they can’t earn one without you. If they don’t treat you like a partner in the recruiting process, consider looking elsewhere.

3. Actively Cultivate the Relationship

Nurturing long-term relationships with a targeted group of recruiters can have long-term benefits. Follow or connect with them on LinkedIn and comment on their posts. Share industry information and updates on your professional achievements. Periodically keep in touch to stay on their radar, even if you’re not in the market for a new job.

4. Clearly Articulate Your Goals

Clearly communicate your career aspirations, job preferences, and the reasons behind your choices. This will signal the recruiter that you’re serious about pursuing other opportunities and enable them to more accurately match you with opportunities that are aligned with your goals.

5. Be Responsive and Professional

Recruiters work on tight deadlines, so it’s crucial to respond promptly when they contact you. If they ask for your resume, want to schedule an interview, or are seeking referrals, prioritize timely communication. Even if a particular job opportunity doesn't align with your goals, express gratitude for their time and consideration, and offer to help with referrals.

6. Be Honest and Transparent

Don’t overstate your qualifications. Foster trust by being forthcoming about anything that may affect your availability to interview or accept a job offer. Don’t be a tire-kicker who accepts interviews for positions for which you don’t have a genuine interest.

7. Thoroughly Prepare for Interviews

Represent yourself and your recruiter well in job interviews by coming well-prepared. Even if you don’t get the job, positive feedback from the employer builds trust and confidence and will lead to future collaborations.

8. Follow Up Promptly After Interviews 

Contact your recruiter as soon as possible after finishing an interview and be honest regarding your interest in the role. If you think it’s a good fit, they’ll eagerly advocate for you. But, if it isn’t, it’s best to let them know right away and express your appreciation for their time and effort.

9. Be Realistic About Compensation 

Be open about your earnings history and expectations, and realistic about the market value of your skills and experience. Being vague or unrealistic will discourage recruiters from working with you.

10. Provide Specific, Measurable Career Accomplishments

Recruiters and employers value candidates who can provide specific examples of their past successes and how they have made a quantifiable, tangible impact. Include them in your LinkedIn profile and resume, and be prepared to provide more details when asked.

Red Flags

While a recruiter can be a strong job search partner, not all of them will be right for you. Here are five red flags that can help you separate the wheat from the chaff.

1. Lack of Communication and Responsiveness

Poor communication signals unprofessionalism and a lack of interest in your success. Look for recruiters who communicate clearly, promptly address your questions, and consistently stay engaged.

2. Sharing Your Resume Without Your Authorization

A reputable recruiter will never share your resume without your knowledge and authorization. Doing so shows a lack of respect for protecting your confidentiality.

3. Shotgun Approach

Less reputable recruiters prioritize quantity over quality. Their goal is to quickly present as many candidates as possible to their clients, often at the expense of accuracy. This “shotgun” approach may suggest a lack an insight into their clients’ needs and respect for your time.

4. Cursory Assessment 

Proceed cautiously if a recruiter appears to only make a cursory assessment of your background or doesn’t ask questions that show an understanding of your industry and area of expertise. 

5. Lack of Transparency

You should always feel like your recruiter is communicating openly and honestly. While client confidentiality may limit what a recruiter can share with you, they should still make an effort to be transparent.

Recruiting professionals can be invaluable partners for career advancement. By utilizing these tips, you’ll be better equipped to build long-lasting relationships that enhance your career trajectory for years to come.

Want to learn more about working with recruiters? Listen to this interview I did with Teegan Bartos from Jolt Your Career on her LinkedIn Live program.