The right recruiter can open doors that job boards cannot. They can position you properly, save you time and connect you to roles that actually fit. But it is not a one-way street. To get the most from the relationship, you need to approach it like a professional partnership.

Here’s how we’d do it if we were in your shoes: 

1. Choose the Right Recruiter

Work with someone who knows your sector
Recruitment is full of people claiming to be specialists. In Occupational Health, that does not cut it. You want someone who understands the landscape, knows the right employers and represents you with professionalism. If a recruiter seems vague, rushed or unclear about your role, they are not the right person to speak for you.

Ask questions
The right recruiter will be happy to answer them. Ask how they work. Ask who the client is, what the process looks like and what kind of support you can expect. If they avoid those questions or give you the runaround, walk away.

2. Treat It Like a Relationship, Not a One-Off

Share more than just your CV
A great CV helps, but it only tells part of the story. The more context you give about your goals, your style and your expectations, the easier it is for us to spot a role that makes sense for you.

Be clear about what you want
Think beyond job titles. What are you looking for in your next move? Is it better balance, progression, culture or flexibility? If you have deal-breakers, say so. The clearer you are, the better the result.

Know your value, but stay open
Understand your market rate, but also know where there is flexibility. Salary is one part of the equation. Consider team culture, support, autonomy and what the wider opportunity might offer.

3. Build a Strong CV and Be Open to Feedback

Keep it clear and honest
Make sure your CV is up to date and easy to read. Highlight relevant experience. Be specific about your responsibilities and results. A personal statement can help set the tone, but keep it professional.

Ask for feedback
A good recruiter will tell you what stands out and what does not. If they have suggestions to strengthen your CV or how you present yourself, take it on board. They know what hiring managers are really looking for.

4. Be a Great Candidate

Respond promptly
If you are actively looking, stay contactable. Let your recruiter know the best way and time to reach you. Things move fast when roles go live. Being responsive helps you stay in the running.

Stay professional
Treat your recruiter as you would any other professional contact. Be honest. Be respectful. Keep communication clear and constructive.

Follow the process
If we give prep notes or ask for information, it is because we know what the client is expecting. We want you to succeed. Take the advice seriously.

Give feedback
After interviews or conversations, let us know how it went. If it was a good fit, tell us why. If it was not, we will adjust and move forward. Honest feedback helps both sides.

Keep in touch
Even if you are not moving right now, check in from time to time. If you land a new role or your circumstances change, let us know. We do not chase. But we do remember the candidates who stay in touch.

A Good Recruiter is Not Just a Middleman

We are here to advocate for you, guide you and connect you with roles that align with who you are and where you are heading. When the relationship is right, the results speak for themselves.

Make it a partnership. You will get a lot more out of it.

At Recruiting Heads, we work with Occupational Health professionals who want more than just a job. Whether you are ready for a new challenge or just thinking about your next step, we will give you honest advice, clear feedback and access to roles that actually fit.

We are not here to push CVs. We are here to help you make the right move – and make it count.

📍 www.recruitingheads.co.uk
📧 sean@recruitingheads.co.uk | abi@recruitingheads.co.uk