If you’re considering hiring a headhunter for your job search, you want to make sure you’re choosing the right person. After all, a bad choice can cost you in terms of missed job opportunities, wasted fees, and lost time. So how do you make an informed choice?
1. Make sure you understand the fees
Who pays, when, and how much. Some firms are paid by the employer, while others are paid by the job seeker. If the firm you are considering is paid by you, the job seeker, another important question is whether you are paying only if they find you a job that you accept or if you are paying for consulting services regardless of the outcome, such as interview coaching or resume updating.
2. What kind of experience do they have in your area of interest?
Many firms specialize in certain areas, such as executive placement, sales, or engineering. While they may be able to find you a position outside their core market, headhunters that specialize in your area know how best to market you, plus they have the contacts to speed your job search.
3. Compile a list of recruiters from a reputable source
Once you have a list of names, it will be easier to compare the services, fees, and expertise of the recruiters you are considering.
4. Spend some time getting to know the recruiter before you sign any contracts
You should have a good feel for the company, the services being offered, and the individual recruiter who will be handling your job search. If you have a personality conflict with a particular recruiter but like the company otherwise, consider asking for a new recruiter to be assigned to your account.
5. Ask for, and check, your recruiter’s references
Find out what previous clients liked or disliked about the services, as well as whether the job search was successful. Depending on the services provided and the salary you are seeking, placement fees can run you thousands of dollars…
With a little homework, you can find a Headhunter that specializes in your industry, has reasonable fees, and who will take your job search as personally as you do.
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