Learn how to communicate effectively, show interest and enthusiasm, and follow up regularly with a recruiter in higher education to boost your career prospects.

Don't just be a job seeker, be a relationship builder. Remember, recruiters are searching for talent just as you're searching for opportunity. So, let's talk collaboration! When a recruiter reaches out with a job opening that isn't a good match for you, leverage your network to suggest one or two awesome candidates who you think might be a good match. It's a chance to showcase your knowledge of the industry and expand your network within the recruiting world. Think of it as planting seeds for future opportunities and becoming a trusted person they turn to.

How can you effectively build a professional relationship with a recruiter?

Building a professional relationship with a recruiter can be a valuable asset for your career development, especially in the competitive and dynamic field of higher education. Recruiters can help you find suitable opportunities, provide feedback on your resume and interview skills, and connect you with potential employers and colleagues. However, to make the most of this relationship, you need to communicate effectively, show interest and enthusiasm, and follow up regularly. In this article, we will share some tips on how to do that.

1 Research the recruiter

Before you reach out to a recruiter, do some background research on their profile, expertise, and experience. Find out what kind of roles they specialize in, what organizations they work with, and what their values and goals are. This will help you tailor your message, demonstrate your relevance, and establish rapport. You can use LinkedIn, Google, or the recruiter's website to find this information.

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2 Initiate contact

Once you have done your research, you can initiate contact with the recruiter via email, phone, or social media. Be polite, concise, and professional in your communication. Introduce yourself, explain why you are interested in working with them, and highlight your qualifications and achievements. Attach your resume and a cover letter if appropriate, and ask for their availability for a follow-up conversation. Avoid sending generic or mass messages, and make sure you proofread your content for errors and clarity.

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Jaime Huezo

Information Technology Technical Recruiter at The Functionary
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Building a strong professional relationship with a recruiter is crucial for your career growth. First, invest time in crafting a polished resume and LinkedIn profile that showcase your skills and experiences. This will be the recruiter's first glimpse into your professional background. When communicating, be clear about your career goals, preferences, and what you bring to the table. It's also important to be responsive and respectful of the recruiter's time. Treat every interaction as a networking opportunity, even if a specific role doesn't work out. Building a genuine connection goes a long way, so express gratitude and keep the lines of communication open. Remember, a recruiter can be a valuable ally throughout your career journey

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3 Prepare for the conversation

After you have secured a time slot for a conversation with the recruiter, prepare yourself for the discussion. Review your resume and cover letter, and anticipate some common questions that the recruiter might ask you, such as your career goals, strengths and weaknesses, and salary expectations. Also, prepare some questions of your own to show your curiosity and interest in the recruiter's work and the opportunities they offer. For example, you can ask about the hiring process, the culture and values of the organizations they work with, and the skills and competencies they look for in candidates.

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Vaughn A. Calhoun, Ed.D

My journey from Division I Athlete to Associate Vice President of Student Affairs
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In my experience, you have to be ready to share your story quickly, powerfully, and genuinely. This is more than just "tell me about yourself." Are you able to speak to your values, vision and mission you are trying to fulfill? A great place to see this in action is watch politicians as they give their stump speeches on why they should be elected. Those who are skilled at this can present themselves in the "Me, We, Now" format. In other words, share a bit about me, talk about us, then where we can go.

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4 Follow up and stay in touch

Following up and staying in touch with the recruiter is crucial for maintaining and strengthening the relationship. After the conversation, send a thank-you note to the recruiter, expressing your appreciation for their time and advice, and reiterating your interest and suitability for the roles they have. Keep them updated on your status and availability, and inform them of any changes or updates in your resume or profile. Also, check in with them periodically to show your continued interest and enthusiasm, and to ask for any feedback or news on the opportunities they have. However, avoid being too pushy or needy, and respect their time and workload.

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5 Be respectful and professional

Throughout the relationship, be respectful and professional in your interactions with the recruiter. Follow their instructions and guidelines, and adhere to their deadlines and expectations. Be honest and transparent about your skills, experience, and preferences, and do not exaggerate or lie about anything. Be flexible and open-minded about the opportunities they present to you, and do not reject or accept anything without careful consideration. Be courteous and grateful for their support and guidance, and do not take them for granted or expect too much from them.

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6 Build trust and rapport

Finally, to build a lasting and fruitful relationship with a recruiter, you need to build trust and rapport with them. Show them that you are reliable, competent, and motivated, and that you value their expertise and insight. Listen to their feedback and suggestions, and act on them. Share your achievements and challenges, and seek their advice and input. Be friendly and personable, and try to find some common interests or experiences that you can relate to. By doing so, you will create a positive impression and a strong connection with the recruiter, and increase your chances of landing your dream job in higher education.

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Vaughn A. Calhoun, Ed.D

My journey from Division I Athlete to Associate Vice President of Student Affairs
Report contribution
Don't just be a job seeker, be a relationship builder. Remember, recruiters are searching for talent just as you're searching for opportunity. So, let's talk collaboration! When a recruiter reaches out with a job opening that isn't a good match for you, leverage your network to suggest one or two awesome candidates who you think might be a good match. It's a chance to showcase your knowledge of the industry and expand your network within the recruiting world. Think of it as planting seeds for future opportunities and becoming a trusted person they turn to.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How can you effectively build a professional relationship with a recruiter?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Research the recruiter

2 Initiate contact

3 Prepare for the conversation

4 Follow up and stay in touch

5 Be respectful and professional

6 Build trust and rapport

7 Here’s what else to consider

Higher Education

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How can you effectively build a professional relationship with a recruiter?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Research the recruiter

2 Initiate contact

3 Prepare for the conversation

4 Follow up and stay in touch

5 Be respectful and professional

6 Build trust and rapport

7 Here’s what else to consider

Higher Education

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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