What NOT To Say to Your Recruiter
Establishing a relationship with a recruiter can be awesome if you are looking for a new job. They can assist you with polishing your resume and finding a job that meets your personal and professional needs. Recruiters get to know you, your experience, and your career goals on a personal level. That being said, there are some things you should just not say to your recruiter.
“I’ll Take Anything”
Don’t ever tell your recruiter that you’ll take anything with the company. While it is good to be flexible, you shouldn’t be open to any job available, even if you are desperate for work. For one, you are likely selling yourself and your skills short. It doesn’t help you or the recruiter define and market your specific skills.
On top of that, you are letting the recruiter know that you will settle. When you come off as desperate in your job search, you won’t get the attention you need. Not to mention, you will seem uninformed. Recruiters want to work with candidates who research positions and companies. You should be engaged and informed. The “I’ll take anything” approach doesn’t lend to that at all.
“Sure, That Salary Sounds Good”
This can go hand-in-hand with the point above. You don’t want to settle with the first offer that comes through. When a company offers you a job, consider how you can negotiate the salary based on your experience and skill set. Of course, if the offer is great, take it. However, you should do your research first. Know what you are worth based on your experience, education, and location. Your recruiter will have a good knowledge of this information as well.
“My Previous Employer Was Awful”
Don’t go there. Complaining about your previous company, employer, or job is a big no-no when it comes to communicating with your recruiter. Doing this can wreck your interviews and it can also harm your professional reputation. Instead, try to discuss with your recruiter how you were able to navigate specific challenges in the workplace. Outline how you were able to thrive in the work environment, despite less-than-ideal circumstances. Whatever you do, just don’t trash talk your previous employer.
“My Former Boss Was Threatened By Me”
This statement goes hand-in-hand with the one above. Although it may have been true, you shouldn’t say this to your recruiter. It comes off like gossip and is unprofessional. If they ask you why your most recent employer is not listed among your references, don’t trash talk them. Reply with something like the recommendations I listed are well suited to speak on my professional accomplishments. Leave it at that. Your recruiter won’t likely dig any farther.
“Can We Reschedule My Interview Today”
Unless there is an actual emergency, rescheduling an interview day-of is unprofessional. It will also make it seem to your recruiter that you are not serious about your job search and that you don’t respect their time. This will hurt the likelihood of you being a priority when it comes to finding a job.
If you are looking for a recruiter to work with look no farther than The Bradley Group. Learn more about the jobs and employers we can help match you with.
