Looking for a job can be a long and frustrating experience. However, there are professionals that can help you navigate this process and increase your chances of getting hired. Working with a headhunter gives you access to someone that has experience. That insight that can be invaluable in you search.
Related: Tips on Working with a Recruiter
What Is A Headhunter?
A headhunter is a contracted professional that is hired by a company to find the best candidates for a specific job. Companies typically outsource this task to headhunters when they need to fill a particular position very quickly. To be successful in this line of work, headhunters must be detail-oriented with great interpersonal skills. This allows them to navigate their large network to find potential hires for a company.
When necessary, headhunters may even approach individuals that are currently employed. This is to see if they would be interested in a new experience and challenge at another company.
How to Find a Headhunter
Ask Others in Your Network for a Referral
You can begin your search by asking professionals within your network to refer you to a candidate that they have worked with in the past. It’s okay if your list of headhunters is short. Especially if you are looking for someone that specializes in a specific industry or niche market.
Search Networking Sites
Aside from conducting a general search online, you can often find headhunters on various networking sites by doing a keyword search. Within these sites, you can also ask other members if they can refer you to anyone.
Check Message Boards
You could also seek out career-related groups or discussion boards online. For example, you can often find referrals on message boards that are hosted by organizations relevant to you and your industry, such as professional societies, alma maters or trade associations.
Read Business News Stories
News stories that announce major happenings within a company, specifically executive changes, usually mention the agency that has been tasked with finding a replacement. You can then conduct your own research by looking into the headhunter’s name and/or agency online.
Join a Trade or Industry Group
Headhunters often belong to associations or groups that are relevant to their specialty. By joining these organizations, you will have access to the list of members and be exposed to chances to network with the various headhunters that have a membership.
Call Employers in Your Industry
Though typically less effective, you can also locate a skilled headhunter by calling the top employers within your field of expertise. After calling, ask to be transferred to the human resources department and then ask the HR representative which search firm the organization uses.
