A technical recruiter is a valuable asset, even if you’re not looking for a new position right now. Technical recruiters are focused on specialized industries—like IT or engineering—and are hired to match the brightest talents in technology fields with the companies that need their expertise. How do I find an work with technical recruiters?

The employer pays a technical recruiter once they hire a candidate. Recruiters don’t work for job seekers. Recruiters are generally delighted to work with young professionals, whether those professionals have qualifications that meet their current assignment or not.

Search LinkedIn for technical recruiters who typically place professionals with your skill set. Most will advertise themselves as “Technical Recruiter.” Some will be specific, focusing on engineering, programming, or another technical field. Most will gladly accept an invitation to connect.

Make it easy for technical recruiters to find you by making yourself visible:

• Create a professional presence on LinkedIn.
• Be active in trade and professional associations.
• Be active in your community.
• Consider writing articles, or starting a website or blog.

Once you have connected with a recruiter, tailor your communications to each recruiter’s preferences. An exceptional résumé will always put you in good standing with recruiters, but check with the recruiting firms you contact for their résumé preferences. Ask how they prefer to be contacted (phone? email?) and stay in touch periodically…but don’t be a pest. An initial follow-up call after you submit your materials, and then again two weeks later is a good rule of thumb. If you update your résumé, resubmit it, or contact the recruiter to relay the new information.

Ask key questions as you decide whether or not you want to work with them. Ask about their experience with your industry. Inquire about the recruiter’s process. Then conduct research, including among members of your network, to get a feel for the recruiter’s reputation, and decide whether to proceed with this recruiter. You need someone that will understand your needs and desires.

Below are general tips to use when working with a technical recruiter:

• Once you are in the process of applying for a job with a recruiter, don’t contact the employer directly. Doing so is going over the recruiter’s head.
• Don’t back out of your commitment once you have agreed to be a candidate. Be willing to see the process through.
• Trust the recruiter. They have the experience and wisdom to give you the best advice as you work through the process.
• Discuss your offer. Recruiters have great advice and can help you determine if the offer is fair.
• Thank your recruiter at the end of the process. A simple thank-you goes a long way toward cementing your relationship.
• Be open to contact from the recruiter even after you’ve landed a job. You never know when you might need the recruiter again.
• Serve as a resource to recruiters after you have the job. You may need their help in the future. If you help them, they will return the favor.
• Never work with a recruiter that asks you to pay for their services.

Want to learn more? Visit the articles below:

Engineering Networking Opportunities

10 Qualities that get Young Engineers Hired

Engineer Your Career available on Amazon