How to Nail Your First Impression with a Recruiter!
Someone once asked me, "How can I make a great first impression with a recruiter?" It's a fantastic question, and one that every job seeker should consider. That initial interaction is your chance to shine and set a positive tone for the entire hiring process.
Here at Worth Recruiting, we believe in making that process as smooth and successful as possible for you. Here is the best advice I could give to anyone looking to make a memorable, positive first impression:
Be Prepared
First things first: come ready. Before you even reach out or step into a meeting, do your homework!
Have an idea of the type of role you would like. Think beyond a single job application and clearly define the type of role you are seeking. This includes outlining your viable locations and your salary expectations.
Have your CV and other relevant documents polished and easily accessible. Make sure your CV is in a format the recruiter can easily work with which generally means a Word Doc or editable PDF.
If you're prepared, it immediately shows us that you're serious about your job search and respectful of our time. It’s the easiest way to demonstrate your professionalism from the get-go.
However, we also appreciate that occasionally, you may have responded to an advert or mailshot that has just grabbed your attention and are reacting spontaneously! Not a problem, but do find somewhere quiet and private so that you can have a confidential conversation.
Communicate Clearly
Clear, concise communication is key. We want to hear about your skills and experiences, but we also value efficiency.
Share your accomplishments and relevant expertise without rambling.
Practice your pitch! Know how to articulate why you're a great fit quickly and effectively.
It shows that you value both your time and ours, and it demonstrates strong communication skills - a critical asset in any role.
Generally, we will need to ask you questions about your work history, dates of employment, why you have left previous employers, and what your goals are. The questions are to establish the type of company and culture that would suit you best – not because we are curious or nosey!
Listen Actively
Recruitment is a two-way conversation. While we need to know about you, we will also share vital information about the roles, the company cultures, and the next steps. Don't be afraid to ask thoughtful, relevant questions based on what you’ve heard.
Active listening shows that you’re engaged, interested, and possess the consideration needed to be a valuable team member.
Be Honest
Trust is the foundation of any good professional relationship. Be straightforward and honest about your skills, your past experiences, and, most importantly, what you’re truly looking for in your next role.
Don't oversell or undersell yourself. If you have a clear salary expectation or a non-negotiable requirement, mention it so that we can communicate this clearly to the employer at an early stage and before you get invited to an interview.
Honesty makes the process smoother, faster, and builds the trust that is essential for a successful placement.
Stay Professional
If we arrange interviews for you, and whether the ongoing interaction is a quick email, a video call, or an in-person meeting, professionalism goes a long way.
If it's a meeting, dress appropriately for the industry and role.
Maintain a polite and respectful demeanour.
Be punctual! If you’re running late, call us so that we can let the client know.
Let us have your feedback after the interview so that we can get this back to the employer, particularly if you are interested in the role.
Stay in contact! There is nothing worse, in our view, than ghosting the recruiter when they try to set up an interview or get feedback. It simply means that next time around you will be avoided, and the employer will always remember candidates who let them down.
Manners and a professional attitude are non-negotiable and leave a powerful, lasting positive impression.
Remember, the goal is to create a positive impression that sets the tone for the rest of the hiring process. Make that first step count!
We’d love to hear your thoughts!
You are always welcome to send us an email with your thoughts or visit www.worthrecruiting.me/jobsto check out our latest opportunities.
