Tips On Working With A Recruiter -- From A Recruiter

By KELLY SERVICES

Using the industry knowledge and networks of recruiters can be a critical component of any job search. A professional recruiter can offer career advice, inside knowledge of your target industry or company, compensation guidance and "cultural fit" insight on prospective employers.

With the right recruiter you can:

Avoid the general inbox: Recruiters have relationships with human resources and hiring managers, so your résumé goes directly to them, not a "job response inbox" containing hundreds of résumés.
Access unadvertised opportunities: Recruiters often know about and fill positions well before they are advertised.
Gain valuable insight regarding company culture: A good recruiter should be able to tell you about the company culture and what to expect from individual interviewers on your schedule.
Get your own advocate: As an advocate, a recruiter can present you in the best way, provide feedback and follow-up, and provide assistance through the negotiation and hiring process.