A headhunter can be an irreplaceable asset to any candidate's job search. If you have yet to experience success with a recruiter, you may be approaching the relationship the wrong way.

1. Find the right recruiter. Don't just settle for the first recruiter you run across. Make sure the lines of
communication are open and you feel comfortable sharing personal information with them. Most importantly, pick someone who specializes in what you want to be doing. There are niche recruiters available for every type of profession. Find one that is connected with your similar industry, specialty and geographical area.

2. Be honest. It should go without saying that the most important part of a recruiter/candidate relationship is open, honest communication. If you have specific requirements, tell them right away. If you have concerns for a job they are presenting you for, bring it up right away. An experienced recruiter welcomes a challenge. They prefer to be prepared prior to negotiations rather than being blind-sided after a job offer is on the table. Do NOT withhold information!

3. Request and reward. Offer your recruiter exclusivity. Many times we meet candidates who are involved with 3 to 5 recruiters (or more) and the only thing you are doing is complicating matters. You will be able to get the attention of a seasoned recruiter by offering them your full dedication. Tell them in order to retain your loyalty, they need to report back with progress and report on developments. You will be able to cultivate a quick bond with a recruiter who knows you are counting on them to land you that dream opportunity!

4. Listen and understand. The whole point of leveraging the help of a recruiter is to gain a competitive edge that you wouldn't otherwise have. In order to take full advantage, trust that your recruiter has been there before. They speak with the hiring managers on a consistent basis and know what makes them tick. They have been through the interview process before and are able to guide you through it. Lean on them and trust their advice - if something doesn't make sense to you, don't just ignore it - - ask them WHY. All too often, recruiters get thrown into the stereotype of being dishonest or uncaring.

Investing the time to find a "compatible" recruiter can open doors for you that you would never be able to find on your own. Whether you are ready to make a career change now, or are thinking that you may like to use our services down the road, it is never the wrong time to hunt for a headhunter.

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