Not posted a job search update recently so thought I would go with this. Recruitment consultants have jobs that I am interested in, but I would like to see some improvements in how I am treated. Here is my wishlist. Am I asking too much?
So here are the 20 things I would like from a recruitment consultant . . .
- To be shown jobs that actually exist
- To be acknowledged by phone when I submit my CV
- To have read my CV before I talk to you – so you already have a feel for my skills and experience
- To check me out online before you call me – read my blog, my Linkedin profile, my testimonials
- To be open-minded about what roles I would be suitable for
- To ask me what other types of role I might be interested in
- To help me with my CV if you think it needs it – especially for roles where I do not perfectly fit the job descripton
- To show some understanding of the sector I have worked in and the types of skills that are important
- To not label me – ie your career history shows xxx so I will only put you up for similar roles
- To take personal responsibility for me – I don't want to talk to your colleagues about different jobs (especially from the same employer)
- To communicate about an application in a regular and timely fashion – so I know what is going on
- To manage my expectations – don't tell me I'll get an interview quickly without knowing that is actually the case
- To tell me I did not got an interview
- To tell me why I did not get an interview
- To call me with other opportunities
- To get to know me a bit more online and start to build a relationship
- To facilitate meetings with employers outside of the formal application process
- To point me to relevant networking information around skills, employers, target sectors
- To be my job search eyes and ears – as much as you can
- To make me feel you are on my side
Currently you get paid for the placement. But what if I was the fee paying customer? If you did all the above then I'd be prepared to pay for the service much like I would for financial advice, for example.
This post was inspired by a great post on this topic by Greg Savage.
Let’s make this mandatory! If you can’t promise this, at the very least, you shouldn’t be in recruitment.
Thanks for providing such a great list to be guided by Martin. I wanted to let you know that Greg Savage sent your blog post to ALL of Firebrand’s Talent Agents to be used as a checklist. Our goal is to be ‘enemies of average’ and succeeding in all areas of this wish list is a must.
Carolyn, that is great and thanks for popping by to let me know. I wonder how many other rec cons could do with using this as a checklist?! many form my experience.