Recruiters Help Make Connections

Working with a recruiter can accelerate the job search and open up new opportunities and leads that you may not know exist. But before choosing a recruiter, make sure you feel comfortable with what they can do and the services they offer.

By Matt Krumrie, Star Tribune Sales and Marketing

Last update: November 27, 2007 - 1:04 PM

"You should get the feeling they are concerned about your career, and more important, what's best for you," says Kyle Krzmarzick, a recruiter and branch manager in the Bloomington office of Technisource Consulting Services (www.technisource.com). "A good recruiter will act as a career counselor and spend a large amount of time trying to really get to know you."

Interview recruiters like they would interview you, asking questions about their hiring process and the people they've had the most success in placing. Krzmarzick also recommends putting your trust in a recruiter who asks questions such as:

• What kind of commute is acceptable?

• What does your family think of you changing jobs now?

• What is your ideal position?

• What kind of an environment do you thrive in?

• What will it be like when you resign?

• Do you anticipate a counteroffer?

• What do you really want to be doing for work everyday?

"None of these questions are actually about work history or a résumé," says Krzmarzick. "These are people questions, not paper questions."

Recruiters can be beneficial in the job search because they spend their entire day working on ways to help people get jobs. They get to know the client, companies and the local market and know the steps it will take to get the job you're looking for.

"Recruiters can act as a direct channel to the hiring manager, saving you time and anxiety," says Krzmarzick.

Recent Jobs : Career management stories

As Economy Shrinks, Fast Food Grows - November 27, 2007

As Economy Shrinks, Fast Food Grows - As the economy continues to shrivel, fast food restaurants are still booming. But the careers aren’t just behind the counter or on the line. There are management jobs and careers at corporate offices. The fast food industry might be something appealing to you. More