4 Tips for Getting the Most Out of Recruiters

You likely know that working with a recruiter is a great way to get the job you want. But you might know that there are many ways to leverage the recruiting experience to get the most out of the partnership. Here are four tips that will help you get the most out of the job seeker-recruiter relationship.

1. Actually build the relationship.

A recruiter is invested in matching the right candidates with their clients. A recruiter is someone you want to be courteous and pleasant with, since people like to work with people they like. So, making a good impression in-person and online matters. Making yourself stand out to the recruiter will increase the changes the recruiter will consider you for the job you're applying for, as well as other opportunities you aren’t even aware of. Fostering a real relationship with recruiters allows them to see who you truly are and thus understand better which clients are good fits for you.

2. Get the inside scoop.

When applying for a job, consider asking recruiters the following questions:

• What is the work culture like?
• Will I fit into the work culture?
• How easy will it be to move up in the company?
• Does the company offer flexible work schedules?
• Can I negotiate the offered salary?
• Does the company offer bonuses?
• Is vacation time negotiable?

Instead of applying for a position with your eyes covered, use your relationship with a recruiter to get these answers—as well as the answers to other questions that you haven’t even thought of yet. Working with a recruiter can give you the context and background you need to understand if the potential employer would be a good fit for you. Who doesn’t want more information when applying for a job?

3. Ask for interview coaching and resume help.

Working with the right career coach is a life-changing experience. When I was a legal recruiter, my favorite part of the job was providing job coaching the candidates needed (whether they knew it or not). Working with a recruiter who takes the time to give you job coaching can help the application process go much smoother, and can help you land the opportunity you want.

4. Leverage your recruiter during negotiations.

Ever feel a bit uneasy when you need to negotiate a salary offer? No worries. Your recruiter can be an ally as you navigate the negotiation space. Remember, the recruiter needs to find the best candidate for their client. If you're that candidate, they'll help you negotiate the deal  that will make both you and their client happy. Otherwise, they lose.

A version of this post previously appeared on Fairygodboss, the largest career community that helps women get the inside scoop on pay, corporate culture, benefits, and work flexibility. Founded in 2015, Fairygodboss offers company ratings, job listings, discussion boards, and career advice.