|
Getting a headhunter's
attention
By Amy
Rogat • Bankrate.com
How do you come to the attention of a headhunter?
The short answer is by having the specific skill set
and personality the headhunter needs. The longer answer has to do
with developing realistic expectations and knowledge of how headhunters,
also known as executive search consultants, work. Above all, remember
that headhunters work for the client who is paying them -- that
is who gets and keeps their attention!
To draw a bit of that attention, I suggest you:
-
Go to your local library and look through
a book titled The Directory of Executive Recruiters.
It has hundreds of professional recruiters listed with their
addresses, salary minimums and specialty areas. Write a brief
letter to some who specifically match your particular specialty.
Include your salary, geographic preference and professional
objective. Do not necessarily expect a return call from them.
Recruiters tell us that they get hundreds of unsolicited letters
every week. If you are a potential match
for a position a recruiter is trying to fill, you will probably
be put through a screening interview by telephone.
-
Network! I cannot overemphasize the importance
of talking to other professionals, colleges, and social acquaintances,
people in your family, friends and neighbors. Ask with whom
they worked with in the past or who has spoken to them recently.
A letter or call with a referral name attached to it will receive
more attention.
Two other publications that may be helpful are Kennedy
Pocket Guide to Working with Executive Recruiters and The
Career Makers-Americas top 150 Executive Recruiters.
AMY ROGAT holds a master's degree
in counseling, with a specialization in career development. She
is a licensed career counselor who was co-owner of a career management
firm for 15 years. Rogat has taught college students about career
exploration and provided individual coaching to people changing
jobs.
|
