How to Find Great Recruiters
If you’ve ever sent out dozens of applications only to hear crickets, you know the job search can be frustrating. But what if you had someone in your corner—an insider who knows the market, has direct access to hiring managers, and can fast-track your application? That’s where a great recruiter comes in.
A top-tier recruiter can be the key to unlocking job opportunities you didn’t even know existed. The challenge? Not all recruiters are created equal. Here’s how to find the best recruiter for your industry and career goals.
1. Know What Type of Recruiter You Need
Not all recruiters work the same way. Before you start searching, it’s important to understand the different types:
- Corporate Recruiters – Work in-house for a specific company, hiring only for that organization.
- Agency Recruiters – Work for staffing agencies and recruit for multiple companies. The American Staffing Association’s member directory is a great resource to find recruiters across the US who adhere to a high level of professionalism.
- Headhunters – Specialized recruiters who seek out top talent, often for executive-level roles.
- Niche Recruiters – Focus on specific industries like IT, healthcare, or finance.
Choosing the right type depends on your career stage and industry. A niche recruiter may be your best bet if you’re looking for a specialized role.
2. Tap into Your Network
The best recruiters often work by referrals. Ask colleagues, mentors, or friends if they’ve worked with a recruiter they’d recommend. LinkedIn can also be a goldmine—search for recruiters in your industry and check their activity, recommendations, and connections.
3. Research Recruiters Online
Once you have a few names, dig deeper:
- Look for LinkedIn endorsements and recommendations.
- Check Google reviews for staffing agencies.
- Visit their company’s website and see what roles they typically fill.
- Browse Glassdoor for employee and candidate feedback.
A recruiter with a strong online presence and good reviews is often a sign of credibility and success.
4. Evaluate Their Communication Style
A great recruiter should be responsive, transparent, and genuinely invested in your success. Ask yourself:
- Do they listen to my career goals and preferences?
- Are they transparent about the hiring process and next steps?
- Do they provide feedback and keep me updated?
If a recruiter is hard to reach, vague, or pushes roles that don’t fit, it may be a red flag.
5. Test the Relationship With an Intro Call
Before committing to working with a recruiter, set up an initial conversation. Use this time to assess:
- Their knowledge of your industry and job market.
- Their experience placing candidates into roles similar to yours.
- How well they understand your skills and career aspirations.
A good recruiter should make you feel like a priority—not just another resume in their database.
6. Avoid Red Flags
While many recruiters are great at what they do, some can waste your time. Be wary of:
- Recruiters who charge candidates a fee (legit recruiters get paid by employers, not job seekers).
- Pushy behavior or pressure to accept roles that don’t fit.
- Lack of transparency about salary, job details, or the hiring process.
7. Build Long-Term Relationships
The best recruiter relationships don’t end when you land a job. Stay in touch, update them on your career progress, and keep the door open for future opportunities. A strong recruiter relationship can be a game-changer throughout your career.
Closing Thoughts
Finding a great recruiter takes effort, but it’s well worth it. With the right recruiter, you can gain access to exclusive job openings, navigate the hiring process with expert guidance, and land a role that truly aligns with your career goals. Take the time to research, vet, and build relationships with recruiters who have your best interests at heart—you won’t regret it.
Ready to connect with a great recruiter? Start by leveraging your network and doing your research. The right recruiter could be the key to your next big career move!
