One of the many perks of LinkedIn is that you get messages directly from recruiters that think you’d be an A-list candidate. If you have a profile, you’ve most likely received a message from a recruiter inquiring about a position they are actively seeking to fill. However, for one reason or another, you may not respond to them right away… or at all.
We get it, you’re busy, and you may not be on the job market, but responding to a recruiter may be the best thing you can do for your career. The worst case scenario is that you’ve wasted a couple of minutes responding and the best case scenario is that you find a new job opportunity. Here’s why you should respond to recruiters:
They can contact you back
We are not talking about the marketing cold call that never ends. It’s annoying to receive calls about irrelevant opportunities, which is why you SHOULD respond. If the job offer is a mismatch, tell them.
The recruiter, if they’re reaching out to you multiple times, will likely have qualifications, notes, contact information, and other important information on file. Don’t put the recruiter on read if you are not interested in the position. Reconnect with them, express your gratitude for their consideration, and let them know that you’re not interested. You can also send them an updated copy of your resume so they’re more in tune with what types of opportunities you’d like, or if you truly do not want to be contacted ever again, you can let them know.
Confidentiality
If you are looking for a new job, a recruiter is a safe way to do it. Confidentiality is especially important for employees who are currently working. Applying and communicating with prospective employers can be very difficult depending on what kind of hours you’re working. Using a recruitment firm allows the company to do much of the initial communication on your behalf without you risking exposure by communicating during office/shift hours at your current position. More importantly, all communications are confidential, so your current employer will never know you are looking elsewhere.
Expertise
Good recruiters are keen at recognizing skills and matching them up with ideal opportunities. Their experience with these employers all but ensures the opportunities presented will give you the best chance of success if hired.
Job access
Not all available opportunities are posted. Some of the companies in the country NEVER advertise online or in publications. These organizations rely solely on their recruiting firm to fill their position The perfect opportunity could literally be in your backyard and you don’t even know it exists… unless you are working with a recruiting firm.
Support and feedback
Have you ever applied for a job, interviewed, and were positive you got it only to never hear from them again? There is that lingering thought of “what went wrong?” Recruiters have an advantage in being able to ask the employer why you were not hired. This can provide valuable feedback and provide a learning experience to make you better prepared for the next interview.
Your job situation could change
The world is evolving and so is your career. A recruiter can provide you with career orientation advice so you may move in the direction of your goals. You never know what the future holds, so opening up your network to recruiters is a great way to be strategic. If you’re an executive in the hospitality or senior living industry, you can reach us here.