5 Things Never, Ever to Say to a Recruiter
When seeking a job with the help of a recruiter, whether they represent the business hiring or work independently, it is important to establish your value. Recruiters are there to place the right candidate in a role, but they are also on the other side of the negotiating table.
In order to be perceived as a valuable fit for a position, make sure never to say the following five things to a recruiter.
1. Do not disclose that you currently have no other job prospects. If asked directly, kindly respond by saying that information is confidential. Your perceived value will be low if it appears that no one else is interested in hiring you.
2. Do not willingly identify holes in your resume. Recruiters are also working professionals, not close friends. The candidates they pass on to employers are a direct reflection of their ability to do their job successfully. Prepare a narrative before speaking to a recruiter that tells the story of your successes.
3. Do not sell yourself short. If you have a competitive job offer from another company, do not say things such as, “so long as you can get close to that offer I will accept.” This causes you to appear desperate. If you undervalue yourself a recruiter will see that and place that same low value on you.
4. Do not reveal the lowest amount you’re willing to accept as compensation. This sets the bar low out of the gate and gives the other side an upper hand in negotiations. Instead, provide a salary range to your recruiter that is above the lowest you would actually accept. It is better for the company to show interest, but ask if you are willing to accept less than the provided range. The value you place on yourself will dictate your perceived value.
5. Again, this is about crafting an image of value and success. Therefore, do not appear desperate by telling your recruiter you’re available at any time of day to speak to a potential employer. Appearing busy will connote that you are actively speaking to other employers. Hopefully, this is more than just appearance, but offer windows of time you are available and go from there.
An important bonus tip: never tell a recruiter that the job being discussed is perfect and meets all your job requirements. While this may be true, you should come away from this article with a clear understanding of the importance of crafting a confident image of yourself. Disclosing that you believe this to be the perfect job does not make you more qualified, instead once again portraying desperation or a lack of other options.
Recruiters represent potential employers and are experienced in discovering a candidate’s red flags. While many are kind and professional, they have a job to do and that requires them to filter unqualified candidates from the pipeline.
When receiving a job offer, your value is only as high as your experience, abilities, and confidence. While never wanting to appear arrogant, no company is going to believe in you more than you believe in yourself. Know your strengths and communicate them clearly, while limiting any perceived weaknesses.