There are many ways of finding a job, but as your career progresses, you may find it useful to develop a relationship with a recruitment consultant. But how do you get the most out of one?
● First and foremost, choose a reputable agency that can demonstrate professional standards, such as membership of the REC (Recruitment & Employment Confederation). Members follow a set of best practice standards, such as not sending candidates' details to clients before they have met them and asked for permission.
● It is worth maintaining a relationship with a good recruitment consultant even if you are not actively looking. They will be able to give you advice regarding the job market and notice of potential opportunities that are coming up. Note that many great vacancies are not advertised, particularly at senior management level.
● From an employer's point of view, candidates who are still in employment and looking for career progression are often viewed more favourably than those who are not.
● If you choose your consultant wisely, then you should be able to trust them to represent you well and work on your behalf.
● If you go on to register with numerous other consultancies or contact employers directly, it may cause issues with the consultancy that is working for you. This could result in them refocusing their efforts on other candidates where there is more chance of a result. Remember that agencies need to make fees to stay in business.
● Be open and honest with your consultant. If there are gaps in your employment or possible issues with references from previous employment, then it is important that you discuss them up front and decide how to address them. Take the registration interview seriously and consider any areas of flexibility - for instance, with regard to salary, the distance you are willing to travel and so on.
● Communicate often and keep your consultant up to date with any developments in your job search.
David Harrington, director, Admiral Group