If you have never been contacted by a recruiter, then you might not be prepared when the call comes. Typically, headhunters or recruiters will try cold-calling people when they have job openings that aren't easily filled. For example, if you are a high-level manager or an executive at a major company, you may be contacted by a recruiter who is hiring for a position similar to the one you currently have. Their goal is to determine if you would be a good candidate for their position and find out what it would take to get you to accept a new job.
When they call and leave you a message, you are faced with the choice of calling them back, or just ignoring it. If you aren't happy with your job, then you may be tempted to find out more about the job they are trying to fill. And, even if you are happy, your curiosity may get the better of you. But, before you call them back, be sure that you have the answers to the questions they will most likely ask. Here are a few of the most common questions:
- Why did you call me back? - This sort of question is almost always going to be their first question. It lets them know where your head is at and also gets you to feel like you are participating in what they are trying to do. This sort of “buy-in” helps them build rapport and finding out what you were thinking when you decided to return the call lets them gauge how likely it is that they can get you to jump ship.
- What is your best accomplishment in the last 12 months? - This is the place where you should try to sell yourself. If you are interested in finding another position, you will want to be confident and tell them why you are a good choice.
- What are the three skills you have that set you apart from your peers? - This isn't the place to be vague. Think about what skills you have that make you good at your job. If you aren't able to tell them why you are special, then who will? So, take a deep breath and be as honest as possible. Don't be afraid to sell yourself.
- What type of job do you see yourself in next? - The answer to this isn't “one that pays better”. Be realistic and show the recruiter that you have given some thought to where you want to be in the future. Keep in mind that even if they job they are trying to fill isn't what you are looking for, they can let you know when they come across the right opportunity for you.
- What would you do if you were offered your current job today-would you take it? - This question is a little tricky, but do your best to answer it honestly. Think about what you have learned in this position and how you have grown both professionally and as a person.
Are you looking for a job in the Manhattan area? Be sure to visit ManhattanJobs.
By Melissa Kennedy- Melissa is a 9 year blog veteran and a freelance writer, along with helping others find the job of their dreams, she enjoys computer geekery, raising a teenager, supporting her local library, writing about herself in the third person and working on her next novel.
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