Four Common Misconceptions About Recruiters

Let’s face it – recruiting is not the most glamorous profession on the planet. The phone calls or emails can at times be annoying, especially when you are not looking for a new position.

But unfortunately, far too many recruiters get a bad rap based on common misconceptions.

But make no mistake, professional recruiting is an invaluable service, as recruiters alert working professionals to employers and open positions these professionals would have otherwise never heard of and never considered.

The following are four common misconceptions about recruiters that it is time to clear up.

Misconception #1: Recruiters have no say in hiring decisions

There is no denying that recruiters are middlemen and middlewomen. They broker employment relationships between candidates and employers.

But that does not mean they do not have a say in who gets hired. For one, recruiters are the first line of defense. If you do not impress them, you will never make it to a hiring manager. By the very nature of their gate-keeping function, they have a say in the hiring process.

But also, it is often the industry expertise of a recruiter that will convince a hiring manager to listen to a recruiter’s recommendations and hire a particular candidate.

Misconception #2: Recruiters charge a hefty fee

It is amazing how many people do not know that job seekers do not pay the recruiters – at least not when working with a top, reputable recruiting firm. Rather, it is the employers who pay the recruiters to help them find the ideal candidates for a position. And the recruiter only gets paid when the position is filled.

Given you are not the one footing the bill, do not be afraid to take advantage of the services a top recruiter will offer. Have them review your resume, prep you for interviews, and advocate on your behalf.  Because even if you do not get the job, you will be more prepared for the next position you apply for.

Misconception #3: Recruiters do not understand the roles they recruit for

It is a big mistake to assume recruiters do not understand the roles they recruit for. In fact, many recruiters once worked in the fields they now recruit for, giving them first-hand experience and tremendous insights into who is and is not suited for a position.

After all, if a recruiter does not understand the role, he or she will struggle to find the right candidate and not get paid.

Misconception #4: Recruiters only care about filling roles

This misconception is a little silly. Of course, recruiters are trying to fill roles – that is their job. If they do not fill roles, they do not get paid. But the notion that recruiters only care about filling roles is untrue and unfair.

Recruiters aim to think about long-term placement and help both candidates and employers find the right fit for each other. Not only does this improve their reputation, but some recruiters only get paid if a candidate remains for at least three months. So recruiters certainly have an interest in finding a good fit for employees and employers.

You do not need to wait for a recruiter before applying for a new job. See who is hiring at CyberCoders.com.