If you are job hunting at the moment and applying to agency recruiters as well as directly, you have probably asked yourself these questions.

As a job seeker how can I leverage recruiters/recruitment agencies to help me find the ideal role?

How can I make sure they highlight my CV and Resume and convince companies to interview me?

How can I help them to market my profile in the optimal way?

How can I develop a relationship with individual agency recruiters and bypass the anonymity of online applications?

How can I ensure that I receive feedback even if it is a ‘no’ and avoid being ghosted?

This article focuses on you as a job seeker and looks at how to work with agency recruiters to successfully find a new role.

Forming relationships with recruiters during your job hunt

Recruiters/Recruitment Agencies

Leveraging recruiters/recruitment agencies effectively can be a powerful way to secure your ideal job, as they often have strong connections with employers and in-depth knowledge of the job market. Here are nine ways you can maximize their support and ensure they highlight your CV/Resume effectively and successfully.

1. Research and Choose the Right Agencies

Identify Specialised Agencies

Choose agencies that specialize in your industry or field. For example, if you’re in field engineering, seek out recruitment firms that focus on engineering roles. They will have a deeper understanding of your skill set and be better equipped to pitch you to the right employers.

Reputation Matters

Look for agencies with a good reputation. Check reviews or ask for recommendations to ensure they have a solid track record of placing candidates in roles that align with your goals.

2. Build a Strong Relationship with Your Recruiter

Communicate Your Goals Clearly

Be transparent about what you’re looking for in your next role. Share your career goals, preferred job titles, companies, locations, salary expectations, and any other key criteria. The clearer you are, the better your recruiter can match you with appropriate opportunities.

Be Responsive

Respond promptly to their inquiries. Recruiters work with many candidates at the same time, and demonstrating that you are proactive and easy to communicate with can make them more eager to assist you.

Maintain Regular Contact

Keep the lines of communication open. Check in regularly to stay on their radar and show continued interest in finding a role.

3. Perfect Your CV and Resume for Agencies

Tailor Your CV/Resume for ATS

Many recruiters and companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen CVs/Resumes. Make sure your CV/Resume includes keywords relevant to the roles you’re seeking, as this will help it get through automated screening systems.

Clear, Concise, and Well-Formatted

Your CV should be easy to read and highlight your key achievements. Include metrics (e.g., “increased preventative maintenance compliance by 30%”) to show tangible results. Avoid jargon and focus on presenting your experience and skills in a way that resonates with hiring managers.

Highlight Transferable Skills

Even if you’re switching industries, emphasise skills that apply across fields, such as communication, project management, and leadership.

4. Ask the Recruiter/Recruitment Agency for Honest Feedback

Seek Constructive Criticism

Ask the recruiter for feedback on how your CV reads to hiring managers and whether there are any areas they would recommend improving. They are experts at understanding what employers want and can provide valuable advice.

Request to Review the Submission Process

After the recruiter sends your CV to a company, ask for feedback on how it was received. If you weren’t selected, understanding the reasons can help you make improvements.

5. Engage with the Recruiter as a Partner

Prepare for Interviews

Work with your recruiter to prepare for interviews. They can provide insights about the company culture, the interview process, and even potential questions. This helps you perform better and increases your chances of getting hired.

Follow Through

After each interview, keep your recruiter updated on the outcome. If you’re still interested in the role, let them know. They can follow up on your behalf and ensure the process moves forward.

Share Success Stories

If you’ve had accomplishments in your previous roles, like working globally, hitting KPIs, or earning promotions, make sure the recruiter knows these. They can use this information to sell your abilities more effectively to employers.

6. Ensure They Are Actively Promoting You

Ask How Your CV Is Being Presented

Some agencies may simply send your CV to clients, while others may take a more proactive approach, such as calling the employer or doing a personal pitch. Clarify the level of involvement and advocacy the recruiter will have in getting your CV seen.

Be Proactive in Following Up

Ask your recruiter if they are actively pushing for interviews. While they may not always be able to guarantee a job interview, you can encourage them to ensure you are positioned favourably in front of employers.

7. Use Multiple Agencies for Broader Reach

Don’t Rely on Just One Agency

While working with a specialized agency is beneficial, don’t limit yourself to only one agency. Multiple recruiters can expose you to a wider range of opportunities. Just make sure you communicate clearly to avoid duplicate submissions to the same employers.

Track Agency Performance

If you notice that one agency is providing more valuable leads or better service, consider prioritising that relationship. Focus your energy on the recruiters who seem most invested in your success.

8. Stay Open to Opportunities

Consider All Roles

Sometimes a recruiter may pitch a role that you hadn’t considered or a position that seems like a lateral move. Be open to discussing these opportunities, as they might lead to new directions or unexpected career growth.

Don’t Limit Yourself

You might have an ideal role in mind, but the job market can be competitive. Sometimes your recruiter may push you to consider roles outside your initial criteria, but these could be opportunities to advance or make valuable connections.

9. Express Gratitude and Professionalism

Maintain Professionalism

Always be polite, professional, and appreciative. Recruiters are more likely to prioritize candidates who are respectful and maintain a positive attitude throughout the process.

Build Long-Term Relationships

Even if you don’t get a role right away, stay in touch with recruiters. You never know when a future opportunity might arise, and maintaining a good relationship can lead to future roles.

Conclusion

By following these strategies, you can work with recruiters to successfully find a new role. Good luck.

Further reading

How to work with recruitment agencies to successfully hire
Harnessing AI Power in Recruiting – Striking the Best Balance