Tips for dealing with recruiters

Like it or hate it, recruiters tend to be one of a few employment channels we pursue when looking for a new job. CareerMums surveys have shown repeatedly that parents have not been impressed with recruiters, particularly post-child.

Why is this?

Typically, recruiters are young and have very limited understanding of the challenges and issues working parents face.

Their salaries tend to be minimal however they do get paid a commission based on the number of roles they place. This in itself presents a problem for flexible workers - they don't have time to understand your needs and match you with a suitable employer.

The recruitment fee structure is based on the placement of a full time role so employers are more interested in full time candidates to ensure they get the best bang for their buck.

Fortunately, there are some boutique recruitment firms who offer a differerent pricing model and focus on placing flexible roles.

To ensure you don't waste your precious time, here are some tips on how to deal with recruiters:

Before you approach a recruiter, ensure your resume is complete, you are clear on your skills and experience, you know what types of roles you are looking for, you can communicate your flexiblity requirements, you know what you are worth, and you have a positive 'can-do' attitude.

Ask the following questions to gauge if the recruiter is interested in helping you to find a suitable role:

• Are you interested in helping me to find a flexible role?
  
• What do you know about flexible work arrangements?
  
• How many flexible or part time roles do you have on your books right now?
  
• How often do you see flexible roles come up?
  
• Would you be willing to put me forward to suitable employers knowing what my flexible work requirements are? Even if the role is specified as full time?
  
• What is a reasonable timeframe for me to hear back from you?