Why Use a Headhunter?
by Darrell W. Gurney, CPC, JCTC, RScP
www.phoenixcareergroup.com

Recruiters can help you in the short-term, for sure. What you get FREE through them that you don’t get through your own effort is:

• Noticed: a recruiter presenting you to a client company makes you stand out from the crowd
  
  
• Presented: you get heard about rather than your information only seen
  
  
• Financial Security: a company paying money for you is, generally, financially strong
  
  
• Insurance: a company paying money for you is more committed to your success
  
  
• Hidden Job Leads: even in today’s wild e-world, many positions are still assigned as "confidential" to search firms
  
  
• Interview Preparation: not only an inside view of the hiring company but a feel for the people you’ll meet
  
  
• Negotiation: the headhunter’s compensation depends on your compensation, so they’re out for your (and their) best good
  
  
• Buffering: a recruiter serves as a useful information channel between you and the company, (e.g., "What she meant was…;" "Their impression of you was…;" "What we want to emphasize more on the next interview is…;" etc.), sometimes a critical factor of success

Even more important than these short-term benefits, there are long-term rewards from affiliating with a few recruiters for life! Hollywood celebrities focus on what they do best by having someone else manage their movement. Similarly, a few chosen career partners can support your long-term goals and desires. Stay connected with your recruiters and always keep your eyes and ears open.

About the Author: Darrell Gurney