by Mike Whittington

It makes great sense to partner with a recruiter in any job search, particularly when employed. It makes even more sense to partner with a recruiter who is completely familiar with your discipline and has his/her own practice directly connected to that same sector.

Recruiters are specialists. They know the companies, decision makers, and positions better than anyone outside the industry and are positioned to offer advice based upon that industry knowledge. Most importantly, partnering with one recruiter provides the opportunity for you to get to know and trust one individual who can be there for you as your career advances.

Just like a high priced sports star, a good candidate will need professional representation – someone who knows how to structure the right deal, offer critical advice and be a sound voice of reason. This “agent of change” is paramount to the success of any executive in today’s market.

• Using one recruiter is vital in that the rapport you build together insures a built-in coach and connector to your best possible next job.
• An experienced recruiter is there to know her candidate and represent her in a way that possibly exceeds the search she’s conducting on her own.
• It often takes another set of eyes and ears to really pull out the best attributes and talent and speak them loudly to a potential hiring authority/company.
• Most importantly, your recruiter is there to negotiate the best possible set of circumstances - including compensation packages - insuring a great career move.