Many people in today’s workforce think they know what an executive recruiter is or how to go about attaining a position through such a person. However, there are many misconceptions when it comes to this particular field. Derek Wilkinson, Managing Director at Boyden Global Executive Search, gave a presentation at our last Sr. Executive Meeting that he referred to as “A Candidate’s Guide to Working Successfully with Recruiters.” He spoke about t a recruiter’s dilemma, where the job market is heading, and what individuals can do separate themselves from the pack. Members can download the full report here: IMF Published Reports.
Here is a brief excerpt from the report that points out the importance of a candidate understanding exactly what a recruiter does…
“It is important to understand what an executive recruiter does and does not do because that will help the candidate out immensely. They DO NOT help people find jobs. There are search people out there who will help their friends or install someone in a job. It does happen. Recruiting is not a regulated industry so a lot of “stuff” happens. On the whole though, someone in the executive search field is out there trying to identify opportunities with their potential clients so they will pay They are there to filter out candidates throughout the process, like a funnel. If an executive search person is not working on something that specifically fits your skills there is a good chance they are not going to be able to help you. If you call them at that point that is ok but keep in mind they probably will not return that call every time. Executive search individuals are very introverted by nature because it is perceived they have the “goods.” In other words, you only want to talk to them because they have the jobs. The equation is not that easy. Again, as a candidate, understand what that recruiter does and seek to understand their role. If you start to build a relationship with a search person and you do not understand something about how they operate then ask a question. They will share that information with you, they to just typically do not offer it up very easily.“
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