Many companies use recruitment agencies to fill their job vacancies these days.
So you’re probably going to have to deal with an agency at some point during your job search.
That means you’re going to have to know how to impress consultants!
Here are 8 tips to help you do just that.
1. There are different kinds of “agencies.”
Agencies vary a lot, some…
- Specialise in long-term work, others specialise in temping.
- Are sector-specific, some more general.
- Prefer to work on senior roles, others focus on graduates.
So it’s very important to do your research before calling an agency – and deciding whether they’re definitely the right one for you.
Check out this article if you’d like to find out more about the different kinds of recruitment agencies.
2. You should tailor your CV accordingly.
Don’t simply send across a CV to a recruitment agency and hope for the best.
For each job you apply for, you should have a bespoke CV, highlighting relevant skills and experience.
Good agencies will encourage this, so if you’re getting put forward for multiple and varying roles, be sure to mention this to your consultant/s.
3. Only apply for roles that are suitable for you.
Blanket-applying for absolutely everything that an agency lists can make you look a little desperate and unfocused.
An agency wants to find work that you’ll be suitable for- they can’t do this if you don’t narrow your interests and expertise areas.
However, it is a good idea to apply for new roles as and when they arise.
Agencies have thousands of candidates to deal with at one time and you can’t be 100% sure they’ll remember you for every single role.
4. Build a positive relationship.
If you’re working through an agency, they’ll work as the middleman between you and the client.
In fact, they’ll champion you for role.
So don’t be rude or unreliable; this will reflect badly on you, not only in terms of this role, but for future roles, too.
And the thing is, your potential employer will hear about it.
They’re not likely to be impressed, are they?
5. Be punctual and organised.
This rule relates somewhat to the previous one; being punctual and organised with your agency shows that you can be punctual and organised for an employer.
Reply to emails and return calls in a timely and polite manner.
And if you can’t attend an interview, let the agency know beforehand!
Neither agencies or employers will waste time on flaky and unreliable jobseekers.
If you massively struggle with being punctual (and yes, some people do find it difficult) then check out this article for 17 Tips To Be On Time.
6. Consider who the agency has relationships with.
Business is all about relationships and networking.
It’s somewhat sad but true that “who you know” can often get your foot in the door of a particular company or industry.
Research who agencies “know” beforehand; do they have ties with companies and industries you want to work for? Will their recommendations and connections be able to open doors you could not open by yourself?
You can usually tell what companies an agency work with by looking at their website and other marketing materials. If they work with great companies, they’re going to shout about it.
7. Take advantage of their advice.
Many people just don’t know how to write a good CV. It’s no big deal.
And many agencies will offer CV/cover letter advice, when you’re applying for a specific role.
Don’t be touchy, take their advice on board. They’re the experts and they know their clients, after all.
And they genuinely want you to get the job!
8. Chase feedback.
A good recruitment agency will chase their clients for feedback after an interview. So don’t let yourself get fobbed off.
Recruiter Pro Tip Unfortunately – and you can take this from me – sometimes, employers can be a little bit difficult when it comes to providing feedback. Perhaps they’re busy, perhaps they can’t quite put their finger on the issue or maybe they just feel awkward. We always chase down feedback as and when we can. But if a recruiter tells you they’re struggling… it’s probably true.
You should then use this advice to learn and adapt for next time!
Summary.
There we have it; 8 things you need to know about dealing with recruitment agencies.
Looking for a bit more information? Try these to help you on your job search:
- 9 Types of Job Interviews You Need to Be Prepared For
- 9 Important Job Search Tips
- CV Writing Checklist: 11 Steps to a Brilliant CV
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Happy hunting!
