Never let 'em see you sweat

As a career coach, I encourage persistence. This is in no way the same as PESTY. Recently a candidate called me 12 times in one day in a period of a couple hours. This person called so many times, I didn't even have a chance to call back. The line was busy because he was calling me and leaving yet another message on my voice mail.

Like any busy exec, I have numerous appointents in a day and return calls the same day. Candidates need to give employers an opportunity to return the call.

In another case, a recruiter told me a candidate had called her 5 times in the same day asking if the company had made an offer. The candidate had not even interviewed yet! They had just been submitted for a position that day.

Numerous calls and emails from candidates in the same day show they are desperate. And frankly, looks like stalking.

If you're working with a recruiter, follow up every other week. NOT every day. Let them know the latest - if you've signed up for a course, are still in the market or have changed career direction. Keep your conversation professional and helpful. Ask what they're working on - perhaps you have a referral for them. Become a resource they can count on.

Recently I read some exceptional tips on working with executive recruiters in Executive Agent (http://www.executiveagent.com/career/ecsn.html). Written by Ian Christie, a former senior director with Monster.com, Rule No. 1 states:

1. Don't Be Needy
One of the biggest rookie mistakes when seeking out executive search professionals is behaving like the firm is there to help you find a job, and that given that you need a job, they should help you now. Wrong. The search firm is under no obligation to help you whatsoever. Try not to project an aura of neediness. (Hint: They can smell it.) Position yourself for the long-haul and you will do better.

Challenge: Never let 'em see you sweat. Follow up by creating a postive relationship built on mutual respect. That means no stalking!

Comments

[Alexandra Levit]

There are some wonderful points here. Additionally, if you're young, it is not wise to have your parents call an interviewer or recruiter on your behalf. I've heard of this happening from several HR sources, and nothing can make you look worse on the job market. If you're used to having your parents intervene for you, now is a great time to break that habit. And no - your mom doesn't count as a legitimate reference either.