Sometime in your career you may have received a call from a headhunter, or initiated the call yourself. In either case, you should learn how to work with them effectively and take full advantage of the many benefits their service provides. Especially in this challenging job environment.
Your success is in the recruiter’s best interest. The fee that the hiring firm pays represents a sizable investment in your success. Thus, the recruiter is interested in making sure the hire and the transition period go very smoothly.
As you develop a relationship with a private equity recruiter, be sure to check that there is a good fit before committing to anything. Here are some of the things to keep in mind before you move forward:
– Allegiance. Unless the recruiter demonstrates quick progress, you may want to hold off on committing to work with that recruiter on an exclusive basis, so you do not limit your options.
– Compatibility. You must feel comfortable with the style, personality, intensity level, and integrity of the headhunter.
– Honesty. Make sure there’s either a bona fide job opening or an upgrade possibility when you are being sent on an interview. Otherwise, you’ll be spending your valuable time on one wild goose chase after another.
– Timing. Be clear about your milestones for making a move. Do not set a false expectation for timing of your move. That could result in wasted time (their second most important asset) and a frustrated recruiter (who will not work with you again).
– Communication. How will you communicate? By email, phone, text, IM, face-to-face, or web conference? How often and when? Set clear expectations to avoid miscommunication later on from spoiling the relationship.
– Confidentiality. An unprofessional recruiter can expose your job search and even put your current position at risk. The recruiter should be very clear about his commitment to confidentiality.
You can get more valuable advice about working with a private equity recruiter at Job Search Digest.com
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