Headhunters are a vital part of the job search, especially for those at the managerial level and above. Some may misunderstand what headhunters really do, and it can lead to missed opportunities.
What is a headhunter?
A headhunter is paid by an organization or company to search for candidates that can fill vacant positions. Headhunters are used in place of advertising for the job position available, and it’s important to find the right headhunters so that you’re much more likely to come across the right job that will fit your skills.
Just how do they work?
Once the employer or HR writes a clear description of what’s needed, the headhunter then starts to look for the perfect match. (A headhunter is usually hired when HR is too busy with other duties.)
The right candidate for the job will possess both the hard and soft skills that the company needs.
Keep in mind that headhunters are usually looking for an exact match. They streamline the hiring process because they know the job description, and they are only interested in applicants who exactly match the company’s criteria.
Were you rejected by a headhunter?
If you don’t get a call from the headhunter after an interview, don’t take it too personally. It doesn’t necessarily mean that you are not qualified enough to fit the position. It’s just that they are looking for someone that’s an exact fit for the company’s culture and current needs.
Who do they work for?
Headhunters are hired by a company, so it’s important to remember that they don’t work for you. Expect headhunters to put aside your resume if you don’t have the qualifications needed by the employer. They aren’t invested in helping you, since the company that hired them is the one giving them their paycheck.
Can you work with different headhunters?
Of course! You are entitled to work with several headhunters as a way to increase your chances of finding a job. You can reach out to several headhunters; at some point you should meet one with the criteria that matches your skill set.
Now that you know how headhunters work, strive to make time to meet them and open up new opportunities.