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There are a range of private agencies in the recruitment field. You can leave your resume with these agencies for consideration and inclusion in their database. Consult the newspapers or Yellow Pages for a list of these agencies. Some agencies utilise the Internet for advertising and receiving applications.
The following are some hints on how to build a relationship and get the best from your recruitment agency consultant -
Do not register with too many agencies
Do not send your resume out indiscriminately as it is essential to build a good relationship with a consultant you trust and respect. This will ensure a more "personal touch", that you receive the best advice and make sure you are considered for the most interesting and relevant opportunities. Multiple registrations do not necessarily guarantee mulitple opportunities for success.
Be honest with your consultant
If you are registered with other agencies or you are interviewing with other companies you should keep your consultant informed at all times. Your consultant needs to be aware of other opportunities you may be investigating in order to negotiate your best interests when dealing with clients.
Once you have been represented for an opportunity, to minimise conflict with employers, you must tell any other consultants that they cannot represent you for the same job.
Keep in touch with your consultant
Your consultant should provide you with a timeframe to ensure that you are fully aware of the progress of your application at all times. Therefore it is important to keep lines of communication open between yourself and your consultant, and try to be contactable at all time. We realise that this is not always possible, so please help your consultant by replying to any messages as promptly as possible. This means that your time will not be wasted responding to irrelevant messages and the consultant's time can be used positively on your behalf.
Take your consultant's advice
If your salary expectations are too high or your areas of interest are outside your current expertise, listen to what the consultant says. You do not want to overprice yourself or chase positions that you are not qualified for. However, always keep an open mind and see other positions as maybe a stepping-stone to further opportunities. Remember your consultant is your representative to the employer, and therefore will have your best interests at heart at all times.
Make sure you get interview advice and feedback
After your initial consultation, your consultant should present you with an assessment of your interview techniques alongside the employer's feedback. This assessment should benefit both you and the consultant, as any tips you gain along the way will assist you at all levels of your job search. Do not be afraid to ask for feedback at all stages of the process.
After interviewing, request as much detail as possible from your consultant to identify your strengths and weaknesses, again this will assist you in your job search at all stages of your career.
Try to stick to the same recruitment company during your career
Repeat business will further cement your relationship with your consultant and ensure that you are working with someone who is genuinely interested in your career path and professional growth. A consultant who knows your career path and professional aspirations will be better placed to represent you, and you will also be better equipped to present an accurate and positive picture of youself to your prospective employer.
Update your CV and details with your consultant once a year
Even if you are not actively job seeking, this will ensure that you hear of any opportunities in the market that may fit your criteria. The key factor is to establish a good relationship and then make it work for you. For help with writing or updating your resume refer to the Applications - resumes, letters and selection criteria section of the C&E website.
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