Not Actively Looking for an IT Job? You Should Still be Working With a Recruiter

The IT job market is hot, so chances are a technical recruiter or two has probably reached out to you. And maybe you thanked them and said you’re not actively searching for a job. Or maybe you’re trying to decide whether or not you should respond to their message. Aren’t you interested in knowing what’s out there?

Talking to recruiters doesn’t mean you have to take them up on their current offer. It does mean that your skills and experience might be marking you as a hot commodity. It also means you might be making a connection that could be important to you in the future. Here are four reasons it can’t hurt—and might help—for you talk to an IT recruiter even when you’re not looking for a new job:

• You’re Being Proactive, Not Reactive. Instead of waiting until you’ve lost your job—or until you’re tired of it—you’re putting yourself in a position where you can assess the job market and possibly test the waters before you lose the safety net of your current employment.

• You’re Saving Yourself Time. If you’re not actively seeking a new job, you don’t have to send out resumes. And if your recruiter asks you if you’d be interested in a new possibility, they’ll go out and do all of the work for you.
• You’ll Know You’re Needed. If a recruiter has reached out to you, you’ll know you have sought-after skills. And if your skill set is so sought-after, a hiring manager may be so desperate to find someone with that set, they’ll offer you the moon—or at least better hours, better benefits and better coworkers.
• You’ll Have Leverage. When you’re actively searching for a job, the hiring organizations have all of the power. But when you’re being presented to a hiring company by an IT recruiter, you’re leveling the playing field. Especially if the hiring manager knows and trusts your recruiter, if you also trust your recruiter you’ll know if he or she is helping you make the best move for your career.

Choosing the Recruiter That’s Right For You

Don’t feel you need to work with the first recruiter that contacts you. Do a little research before establishing a relationship with one. Make sure the recruiter specializes in your specific area—your industry, your discipline, and your geographic area if you’re not interested in relocating. And don’t be afraid to ask questions or express opinions. Make sure he or she knows exactly what you’re looking for.

The next time you get a phone call or email from a recruiter, why not consider answering and seeing what develops? Or if you’re interested in starting a relationship with an experienced IT recruiter who will provide support throughout your career, call the team at Triumph Services today!