A Recruiter Reached Out on LinkedIn? Take It as a Compliment

When a recruiter reaches out to connect with you on LinkedIn, take it as a compliment.

It doesn’t necessarily mean that they have an opportunity for you right at that moment, but that they see something in your career path and trajectory where they believe they can be a resource for you in the near future.

If you are open to hearing about new opportunities when you receive the invite, let them know you appreciate them reaching out and “are happy in my current role but am always open to hearing about new opportunities”. This is the best way to ensure that you have your finger on the pulse. By getting to know recruiters in your niche that you trust and by them getting to know you. Offer to have an introductory call so you may share with them what you’re looking for in your next role.

Stay Top of Mind with a Recruiter

If you want to stay at top of mind with that recruiter continue to be in touch from time to time. We love to hear about big wins and promotions. It’s not boastful to tell us these things, it helps us know where you are at in your career progression. Referring friends and colleagues that are well respected is also a good way to ensure we think of you when new opportunities arise.

Better yet, if your current company is hiring, introduce the recruiter to the hiring team. Or, if your company isn’t hiring at the moment, introduce the recruiter to your head of HR, or your boss, so that we may be a resource when the company is ready to hire. Showing your executive team that you have relationships with headhunters within your niche should not be seen as scary, it’s a flex. You are aware of market conditions, opportunities and trends that move businesses forward.

It may take some time before there’s a role that matches what you are looking for, and that’s normal. Treat the relationship with the recruiter as a long game, and it’s likely that you both will profit from the relationship when the timing and role is right.

Connect with Liz Gehl on LinkedIn

Looking for some tips on how to build a relationship with a recruiter early? Check out this article on our Headhunter Hints Blog: Build Relationships with Recruiters Early