4/17/16 - What to do after a company unexpectedly wants to recruit you
By Megan Santos
http://business.financialpost.com/executive/careers/what-to-do-after-a-company-unexpectedly-wants-to-recruit-you
The hiring process is a collaborative effort for both the job seeker and employer. Typically, people are accustomed to seeing applicants initiate the conversation. They find the job posting, they tailor their applications, they reach out to hiring managers and hope to hear back.
But what happens when conversation is started from the employer’s end? Meaning, you receive the red-bubbled notification in your LinkedIn inbox, or you’re handed a recruiter’s business card and told to “be in touch.” To say the least, it’s a feeling that’s pleasantly unexpected and flattering.
Below are three next-steps to consider after you receive that “we want you” message from a recruiter.
Don’t make rash decisions
Remember the life lesson we were taught in elementary school: Think before you act. Although it may be tempting, don’t prepare your interview attire, or toss the recruiter’s message in the trash just yet.
When something happens unexpectedly, it’s natural for people to respond without thinking it through. Hearing from a recruiter for a job you never applied to can have the same effect, whether you’re steadily looking for employment or not.
Weigh out your options. Before you say yes or no, research the company and position — read reviews and get a sense of the culture from the company’s website. You can even consider setting up a preliminary phone call with the recruiter (before the real interview) to flesh out all of your questions about the role.
Let the recruiter do the selling
Remember: The recruiter contacted you, so the ball is in your court. Your skills intrigued them enough to reach out, so allow them to win you over. At this point, listen to what the recruiter has to offer and, by the end of the conversation, be clear on the company mission, job description, flexibility, culture and any other qualities you find important.
While you can expect the recruiter to do most of the talking as they convince you to get on board, be prepared to also speak about yourself. They discovered enough talent in you to pick you out of the crowd, so be sure to also give them some validation.
Leave a lasting impression
If you don’t see a good fit between your wants as an employee and their needs as an employer, don’t worry. Not all recruits are successful. However, if the role isn’t a match right now, it could very well be in the future.
As a candidate, ensure you do your part in ending the conversation on a high note. Adding another professional connection is the least that can come out of this experience, so show proper etiquette when you close the conversation to secure the relationship.
Acknowledge the recruiter. Express that it was a pleasure meeting them, kindly pass but thank them for the opportunity, and show your enthusiasm in potentially working with them in the future. Given your initial appeal to them, they’ll be happy to keep in contact with you as you develop professionally.
This article was written by Megan Santos of Jobpostings.ca, Canada’s largest student job network helping post-secondary students find their internships, co-ops and entry-level jobs to launch their careers. Follow them @Jobpostingsca