Security Oracle News Archive

Why Use A Security Recruiter?

Fri, October 20, 2006

Source: Hanover Search & Selection

There are many, many job opportunities that are filled through word of mouth. Having spent a number of years in the security recruitment field we...

There are many, many job opportunities that are filled through word of mouth.  Having spent a number of years in the security recruitment field we still recommend that you network as widely as you can; join associations, go to seminars and make sure you catch up with people you’ve worked with previously.  Most people are willing to spend some time talking to job hunters to give them the benefits of their experience, particularly if you’ve had some shared experiences before – it’s amazing what comes out of these conversations!

However, saying all that, recruiters still have a place.  There are many firms that still ask external recruiters to help them identify staff, as often time and costs savings can be huge for the firm trying to recruit.  As a candidate of a recruitment firm what advantages do you have? 

In general you’ll find that if a recruiter submits your details for a role then you’re already ahead of the game; most recruiters will only send six to eight people for any one role, so if you get that far you’re doing well and your chances of getting that role are greatly improved.  Also, some recruiters have many years of experience within the market, so they can help with interviews, CV preparation, industry news and background on the company and interviewer that you will be meeting – make as much use of their experience as you can.

Try and meet with a recruiter face-to-face this will help with them putting you forward for roles as you will probably be easier to talk about authoritatively and spring to mind more easily when the all important shortlist is being put together.  You should also get an understanding of the way they work and the clients they work with.  Don’t be afraid to ask your recruiter questions.

It’s also important to remember that although you are keen to find that perfect role, there’s numerous other people in the same boat and individual recruiters only have so much time in the day.  Try not to become someone that people try and avoid calls from, by calling every day.  Recruiters should let you know when there’s feedback, although this never comes as quickly as you or the recruiter would like, but they will hopefully come back to you as soon as they have news!

This article in security recruitment was written by  Hanover Search & Selection.