Why Recruiters Are Assets, Not Obstacles

We tell our clients the best way to land a job is to utilize your existing network. But when your network is on the small side, it can be challenging to find people who can help. With a large portion of posted jobs being by outside search firms, working with a recruiter is a common part of the process these days. However, we often find that job seekers see recruiters as a barrier, not an asset. Here are 3 reasons why working with a recruiter is the missing link in your job search:


1. Employers frequently outsource hiring.
A quick LinkedIn search will show you that a large portion of the jobs advertised right now are from outside search firms. This tells you that companies are outsourcing hiring at record rates and it means that a recruiter is frequently going to be the first person you need to impress.

2. Recruiters talk directly to hiring managers.
Recruiters have a direct line to key decision makers at a multitude of different companies. Online applications make it very difficult for job seekers to connect with hiring managers, but recruiters are a great way to get around this. If you’re a fit, a recruiter can make it easy to get your application seen by a key decision maker. Similarly, if you burn a bridge with a recruiter, it’s just like burning a bridge with a hiring manager. Word will get around that you’re not professional—especially if you fail to show up for an interview with a recruiter, or if you talk rudely and behave unprofessionally during your interaction with a recruiter. Embrace recruiters—they are often the gatekeeper!

3. Recruiters have massive networks.
Whether you’re trying to break into a new industry, you’ve recently relocated to a new area where your network isn’t as strong, or you’re just not having any luck getting callbacks from online applications, working with a recruiter can be a game changer. Reach out to different recruiting firms in your target area to begin building a relationship with a recruiter who has experience filling jobs specifically in your industry.

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