Long Distance Recruiters & Coaches – Are They Effective?

Posted by on Sep 7, 2011 in Articles

While you are in the midst of your job search, there are several people of influence that you need to network with as part of your search process.  Developing strategic relationships with key Recruiters is one of the most critical relationships that you can establish in managing the success of your efforts.

As I have recruited and coached candidates and clients nationally, there are usually a few questions that come up regarding the effectiveness of the recruiter, or the relevance of their geographic location compared to the specific needs of the candidate.

Here is one question and answer for you to consider as you manage your long distance Recruiter relationship during your search process:

Q. Is it worth developing a relationship with a recruiter or Coach in your current location if you’re looking to relocate, or should the job seeker focus on recruiters and coaches in his/her desired geographic location?

A. Given today’s competitive market and ever-changing economic conditions, you should never allow yourself to be “attached” only to Recruiters or Coaches in your immediate area. Cast a broad net and do not limit your recruiter relationship to any specific geographic location.  While I serve many clients in my own backyard on the West Coast, I know several recruiting companies on the East Coast that have client relationships in my neighborhood.  Conversely, I have had active clients on the West Coast whom have had recruiting needs for East Coast positions within their company.

Don’t assess and establish your recruiter/coach relationship based on their geographic location.  Focus on the tactical perspective of their market presence, their market disciplines and their level of engagement and tiered recruitment opportunities with their clients.  In other words, don’t engage with a mid-level contract placement agency if you are looking for a full-time Executive Level position.

The following points are critical as you assess and consider the time that you invest in establishing a solid relationship with a recruiter/coach that can best support your efforts.

  • Research your target companies to determine which Recruiting firms they use as preferred vendors for their open positions, then make direct contact with that recruiting company.
  • Interview the Recruiter/Coach to determine their capability of supporting your initiatives and professional expectations.
  • Ensure that they have a strong presence in your specific market segment or discipline.  If your target industry is Contract Manufacturing or Finance, you do not want to engage with a recruiter whose primary focus is placement in the Retail industry.
  • Make sure that specific industry knowledge is an integral part of affirming the market disciplines of the recruiter or coach.  In other words, understanding the acronyms and buzz-words for a specific industry will demonstrate their degree of experience in your field.
  • Check their market presence and credibility.  Review their LinkedIn profile, read their “Recommendations,” look at their online presence and research them through their professional networks.
  • Be tactical in your selection and intentional about maintaining a high-touch, accountable relationship with that Recruiter, Coach or company.  It’s imperative that you stay on their radar and “top of mind” whenever possible.
  • Be mindful of their market presence in fulfilling their client expectations.  For example, if the position you are seeking is at the “C” or Executive Leadership level, you want to be confident knowing they are experienced with placement opportunities at this tier.  Don’t invest too much time in small talk with a recruiter or coach that does not focus on your type or level of position.

Never allow a geographic location to prevent you from working with your next Recruiter or Coach.  You may find your next position online or through a specific posting, but the most effective way to increase your visibility at that company is going to be through a personal connection.  Taking the time to review the capabilities and qualities of your Recruiter, and establishing a collaborative partnership with them will prove to be instrumental in securing the job of your dreams.

Go Get’em!

 

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