Recruitment and headhunting, just like anything, has its own etiquette. Whether you’ve been approached by a headhunter, looking to enlist the help of a recruiter, or simply want to know more about the professional landscape around you, read on here to get our seven super tips on the etiquette of headhunting and recruitment.
One – Responses are important
If you’ve been approached by a headhunter – it’s important that you understand the importance of being responsive and maintaining an open dialogue. Even for those not currently looking for a new role will be well served to take the time to express that they aren’t looking currently, but that they appreciate being a part of the conversation.
Two – Be proactive
It might be old fashioned to put too much stock by the quality of someone’s’ handshake, but that doesn’t mean it’s totally off the mark to consider it. The same goes for recruitment and headhunting.
Finding a new job is a different skillset to keeping the job you have. If you aren’t making the effort to help your recruiter find a role for you, you’re doing the job-hunt equivalent of giving a limp handshake.
Three - Don’t leave your headhunter out to dry
Professionalism isn’t just about you and your reputation – it’s about the reputation of those around you. If a headhunter or recruiter makes a recommendation, it’s bad form to fail to uphold at least some semblance of professional courtesy on their behalf.
Four – Be a part of the conversation
An important thing to consider is that headhunters, while not holding a legally protected title, aren’t in the business of providing complimentary career development advice.
It’s all about helping your headhunter help you. Take part in the process. Be prepared to have the discussion about your current levels of experience and expertise. Talk about what you want, and a good headhunter will help you get there.
Five – Check your online presence
Linkedin, and to a lesser extent, your social media presence, is going to inform how some employers see you. It isn’t nice, and it could potentially even be leaving them open to challenges of discrimination. But many employers do it.
Do a review of your personal social media channels and accounts and make sure that you’re presenting yourself in a way that you’re comfortable being seen by your employer.
Six – Don’t get carried away
Being approached by a headhunter, or enlisting the help of a recruitment agency, is just a start. It is important that you don’t get carried away in the excitement of the process.
Sometimes, finding a job that you’ll truly love takes time, and it’s important that you manage your own expectations of when and who is going to make you an offer.
Be patient with the people who are trying to help you find that role and avoid letting the ups and downs of this process negatively impact how you interact with those people.
Seven – Know that some of it is out of your hands
Ultimately, any employment decision requires a number of parts to fall into place. The decision to move forward with an offer isn’t only yours, but also the decision of your employer. The conditions that govern a good decision can change, often without warning. Know that some aspects of the process are out of your hands and you’ll be better situated to consider and address situations when they arise.
Find your next steps with Zoom Recruitment
The world of employment and professional development is big and complex. At Zoom Recruitment, we’ve made it our business to know how to get great candidates the jobs that they are after.
With decades of experience across mining, construction, civil and commercial projects, we know what makes these industries tick. Contact us today to find out how we can help you make the next step in your career.
