Here are our top tips in making the most out of this relationship.

1. First, Select a Great Recruitment Agent

Demand Excellence: In every industry there are the good and bad operators, and the recruitment sector is no different. Our advice is to ditch a poor recruiter and find someone you can work with. A recruitment agent is representing you and can make a real difference to your career, so make sure you are confident that the agent representing you is suitably skilled and engaged to do so effectively.

Ask Questions Freely: Ask about the recruitment process, prospective employers, or any concerns you have. A good agent welcomes questions and offers valuable guidance.

2. Now you have selected a great recruiter, be prepared to have a relationship with them!

Create a Relationship: A stellar CV only reveals so much. Invest in developing a rapport with your agent. Help them understand you beyond the paper so they can identify ideal opportunities that align with your goals. You want them to be able to think “this role is perfect for” when a vacancy comes to the market.

Define Your Path: Clearly articulate your career aspirations and how this role fits into your long-term plans. Identify your top priorities and deal-breakers, sharing their significance with confidence.

Know Your Worth: Great candidates always know their ‘market value’ in monetary terms but you should also be able to discuss your expectations in relation to skills and experience acquisition, management style, your impact on the company objectives etc.

Note of caution – make sure you fully understand the market value for your role, but don’t get fixated on a figure as often the base salary doesn’t represent the value of the whole package or opportunity on offer.

3. Create a winning CV with personal branding techniques

Craft a Detailed Resume/CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date, transparent about your experience, free of errors, and includes a personal statement that reflects your personality.

Take Feedback Onboard: Ask for feedback! An experienced recruitment agent will know their market and will be able to provide you with insightful feedback on your CV, your career ambitions and much more..

4. Be a great Candidate

Be Responsive and Available: Respond promptly to communications from your recruitment agent. Keep your phone and email accessible and inform them of the best times to reach you. Being available helps them keep you informed about potential opportunities.

Stay Professional: Treat all interactions with your agent as you would with an employer – courteous, respectful, and professional.

Follow Instructions: If the recruitment agent asks you to make certain changes to your resume or to prepare for an interview in a specific way, follow their instructions diligently. They have insights into what employers are looking for.

Offer Insights & Feedback: After interviews or interactions with potential employers, provide honest feedback to your recruitment agent. This helps them better understand your preferences and refine their search.

Maintain Regular Communication: Keep in touch with your recruitment agent regularly to stay updated on any new opportunities or developments. Check in periodically if you haven’t heard from them in a while.

Share Great Experiences: If your agent has done a great job for you, show your appreciation by telling your friends, family, and connections.

By implementing these strategies, you can establish a positive and productive relationship with your recruitment agent, ultimately leading to a more effective job search and successful placement.