By Kevin Donlin
In this job market, you need every possible advantage. And a good recruiter could be one of them. But how do you find one? How much -- if anything -- should you pay for their services?
Here are answers to these and other questions.
1) Find a recruiter
a) Consult your network
Start looking for a recruiter the same way you look for a dentist or barber -- ask people you know for referrals. You can save a lot of time and hassle this way, by learning from others.
This works online, too. Simply post messages at Web sites that serve your industry and ask for the names of good recruiters who work with people like you.
b) Search the Web
Go to www.google.com and type in "recruiter" and "FIELD" replacing FIELD with the type of work you do, such as sales, programming, training, etc. You can also search for "recruiting" or "recruitment" to generate new lists of potential Web sites.
2) Work with a recruiter
When you contact a recruiting agency, be sure to ask who pays their fees -- you or the employer? Most recruiters won't charge you, because they're paid by employers to find and screen candidates. But, if you don't mind paying a fee (for what should be a MUCH higher level of service), be sure to contact at least three recruiters to get a feel for pricing in your field or geographic region.
Once you've found a suitable agency, get their fax number or e-mail address and send them your resume. Call to confirm that they received it.
Don't expect instant results, no matter what recruiter you work with. Matching a candidate with the right position at the right company can be like looking for a needle in a haystack. It's going to take time.
It's all right to call once to follow up after submitting your resume, but most recruiters are too busy to chat unless they have a suitable opening for you.
3) Don't let up
In the meantime, pursue other avenues of job hunting, such as your network of personal and business contacts. In other words, think of a recruiter as just another tool in your job search toolbox. The more tools you have and the harder you work at it, the faster you can construct your ideal job.
Best of luck to you!
-- Kevin Donlin is the author of "The Last Guide to Cover Letter & Resume Writing You'll Ever Need," a do-it-yourself manual that will help you find a job in 30 days ... or your money back. For more information, please visit http://www.CollegeRecruiter.com/guaranteed-resumes.php
