Being headhunted is a game of strategy. You have to put yourself out there without appearing desperate. How do you let your qualifications and experience speak for themselves instead of putting on a show?
The job market is saturated with millions of hopefuls attempting to make their mark on the world. Some succeed the traditional way while others get headhunted.
Yes, the aim is to land your dream job, but as opposed to approaching recruiters with a begging bowl; you make them come to you.
Below, we’ll explain how to master the art of headhunting.
Reintroduce Yourself
Your online presence or lack thereof speaks volumes to potential recruiters. Top Resume suggests being consistent and active on your LinkedIn account.
Build up your profile to become more visible. Firstly, rework your profile to be compelling and include keywords headhunters might be searching for.
Join LinkedIn communities and networks and share or create relevant posts. When listing your achievements, use real numbers to measure the results you can offer employers.
Humble Bragging
This isn’t the time to hold back on your qualifications. Sprinkle a dash of humble bragging on your skills and certifications. Let’s consider the example of someone planning to move beyond conventional qualifications.
Academia is not for the faint-hearted. Studying for a PhD takes dedication and relentless research work. At least you know once you’ve completed your degree, you can proudly display your accolade on your resume.
For example, registered nurses (RNs) with a master’s degree wanting to work in the academic field typically pivot to a PhD in Nursing.
Most nursing professionals with research interests follow the nursing education path to obtain a doctoral degree.
Online PhD in nursing programs are a viable pathway to obtain a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing. The tuition is affordable, 100% of the coursework is online, and students gain support services until graduation.
An online Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing grants graduates the key to a terminal degree for advanced practice nurses. Wilkes University says an online PhD degree also prepares students for a career in nursing science and nursing research.
Identify Potential Headhunters
Be proactive and draw up a list of specialist recruiters. Identify those who could help you. It won’t hurt to send them a connection request on LinkedIn either.
Here’s what you do. Have aspirations of working for a specific company? Check to see if the business has internal headhunters or recruiters. Cast your net even wider by connecting with external headhunting agencies representing more than one company.
Forbes says it’s best to take control of the reach-out process and search for tenured recruiters who are advertising relevant jobs that you’d be interested in.
Don’t Submit Your Resume Just Yet
It can be exciting knowing that a top company wants you. However, headhunter and recruitment entrepreneur Dandan Zhu warns unscrupulous recruitment agents will leverage your resume for “the right of first representation.”
If someone has your resume, they can submit it anywhere, with or without your consent. Once they submit your resume, you can’t use another recruiter for the same company.
The best advice is to document the firms and headhunters that submitted your resume for particular positions.
Are You Worth it?
Imposter syndrome is real, especially when you start doubting your capabilities. Despite your doubts, Undercover Recruiter advises you to keep your eye on the ball.
Research the going rate in the current market and be upfront about your expectations. When it comes to your salary package and perks, agree on an amount and stick to it.
Often, individuals think they have the bargaining power because they were approached for the position. Wanting to shift the goal posts isn’t a good look on you or the headhunter. You’ll appear manipulative and unprofessional.
Always Remain Professional
Headhunters are consummate professionals and won’t waste your precious time which is why they’ll agree to meet when it’s convenient for you. They’ll always make themselves available to discuss any concerns you may have.
Don’t take their kindness as a sign of weakness. From the get-go, they’ll establish a rapport where you feel comfortable enough to share a few things. They’ll always remain discreet because your relationship is based on mutual trust.
However, the lines can become blurred and it’s easy to get caught up thinking they need you more than you need them. Fracturing a good relationship can cost you a potential job.
Remember to always act in a professional manner and be kind. It takes nothing to be a considerate person and employee.
Make Smart Moves
As previously mentioned, getting headhunted is all about strategy. You could compare it to a game of chess. Single out your Knight protecting the Queen.
Strengthen your network. Be more active on social media, specifically LinkedIn. When updating your resume, show yourself off in the best light. List your qualifications and academic achievements.
Are you worth it? Yes, you are – but within reason.