What Benefit Do I Provide as a Recruiter?

It's a simple question, and one I should probably ask each day before picking up the phone.


However, I usually get wrapped up in other things. As a recruiter, we have metrics for phone calls, send outs, client visits, new candidates uncovered, resume submittals, and of course revenue.

At home there is family, including literally chasing my one-year-old around the house (shame on you parents for not giving me a heads up on this!) financial, and house up-keep obligations. I'm sure you have the similar or more demanding commitments at home and work.

While waiting for an oil change, (oh yeah, forgot about car) I jotted down five ways I can provide value to both clients and candidates. As veterans in my industry preach, and essentially the golden rule states, (sappy, I know) if I provide value first, people will then provide value to me.

I share this because I found the exercise of knowing how I benefit my clients gave me new energy and focus with everyone I interact with.

Here are five things I can do to provide value to an HR professional or business owner:

1) Provide Great Candidates: Goes without saying. With people the focus of every business, if I can find someone for an organization that can make an impact on the bottom line, I've provided value.

2) Job Descriptions: Working in the niche manufacturing market, we see job descriptions for almost every position. If our client is looking to hire, we can likely save them time by sending a template that they can modify for their business.

3) Pulse on Market: When clients approach us looking to hire, we can educate on how readily available candidates are for that type of position. How long will it take to recruit a difference-maker to their company?

4) Salary: With salary being an organization's top or #2 expense, by working with all types of organization and candidates, we can help determine the market rate for a typical employee.

5) Working as an Intermediary: A job change is tough. When a candidate and client are going back and forth about salary and benefits, we can work as a 3rd party that is dedicated to both party's interests.

And...Here are five things I can do to provide value to a candidate:

1) Provide Great Employment Opportunities: The most obvious. By working together, a candidate can find a position that aligns with their career goals and is a better fit for them and their family.

2) Interview Insight: Walking in cold with limited knowledge about a company is never a good start. A good recruiter knows all about the personalities of the hiring team, and can relay information to the candidate on the hiring authority's interviewing style.

3) Beyond Job Description: Many of our clients put out a job description, then throughout the hiring process learn about additional skills that are required for the role. Often times schedules don't allow the description to be updated, so a recruiter can make sure the candidate is in the loop.

4) Networking: By connecting through Linkedin or asking about various websites that search the Internet for open jobs, a candidate can increase their presence on the web and learn about new opportunities faster.

5) Resume Advice: I look at over 100 resumes a day. The good ones typically stick out. If there is something that can be changed to make the resume look more attractive, I'll let you know.