Actively applying for a new job or contemplating a job change can be overwhelming. One important factor many applicants forget about is making a good first impression. Many times your first impression is with a recruiter. Whether you’re planning to relocate across the county, across town or dive into travel, your recruiter is an advocate for you and specialist in healthcare staffing.
So, what does a recruiter do for you? Recruiters will review your application, conduct the initial interview, check your references, and get you in contact with hiring managers. Behind the scenes, recruiters are prioritizing you with their other active job seekers. Why does this matter to you? We are your link to jobs that are otherwise unreachable. If you are not a high priority to your recruiter then that means another active job seeker is getting more attention and more jobs presented to them. Wouldn’t you like that to be you? Of course you would!
Here’s what you need to know to make the most out of your relationship with your recruiter:
Be professional! Once you post your resume online, be prepared for 20-30 calls within one day. Nevertheless, remember your future employer may be one of those callers so be professional. This means no yawning or bad attitudes. Take the process seriously. The fact that you are getting a call means we want to know more about you to see if we can help find the career opportunity you are looking for. If you make a bad first impression, you may have just lost your dream position without knowing it. Recruiters have a choice to work with you or not, just as you can choose to work or not work with a certain recruiter. First impressions will stay with your applicant file. Remember, down the road when reaching out to the recruiter you hung up on years ago, one of the first things they will do is review your file.
Be honest and communicate! You’ve made a great first impression with your recruiter. You’ve been deemed professional, qualified, and based on what you’ve expressed to us we can help you. Yes, we practice active listening and are mindful to take into consideration your preferences. Continue to be honest with your recruiter about what you want and where you want to be and your recruiter will do the same. Furthermore, when you are presented a job you must respond. Don’t leave your recruiter assuming you’re not interested. Hold yourself accountable to review the position and respond the same day. This will only help move the process along to finding you your position.
Ultimately, if you want your recruiter to take you seriously do three simple things: be professional, honest and communicate! The more responsive you are the more your name will come to mind. Build a strong relationship with a recruiter and be flattered when you get called about a job! You must have left a good impression!
Veronica Perez is a Recruiter for the Rehabilitation Therapy division of Aureus Medical Group.