How to NOT Interact With Recruiters
When interacting with recruiters, it’s not about just reaching out - it’s about being polite, not expecting free help, and not overstepping boundaries.
A good recruiter is well connected in the industry. If they know everyone, they’re talking to everyone. They’re happy to share names and connections, but not if you’re making a bad impression.
I get some surprising messages on LinkedIn from those expecting my support. Helping educators find fulfilling roles in EdTech is a huge passion of mine - so it’s always disappointing when someone approaches me with anger or even aggression while expecting my help.
When you’re reaching out, put yourself in the recruiter’s shoes. Think about the many messages we receive, good and bad, and brainstorm how you can stand out.
What to Avoid When Interacting With Recruiters
Don’t expect free help
Do your research and learn if we offer coaching, courses, and other ways to work with us. While recruiters typically earn a payment from those they’re recruiting for, we also know the value of our support - even if we don’t directly help you get into a role.
From both working in the industry myself and recruiting within the industry for several years, I have plentiful advice for how to market yourself to EdTech hiring managers. That’s why I create courses to help you.
Every recruiter is different, but always do your (in-depth) research first.
Recruiters have spent a lot of time and energy to get to where they are. It’s difficult to build a network, earn the trust of companies, build a strong knowledge base to help job searchers, and establish their business. You didn’t go to college and put in the work to do a job for free, so neither do recruiters.
Don’t send your entire life’s story
Don’t take this in a bad way. What I mean is keep your message to the point. Recruiters get lots of messages and the ones that stand out most are concise and friendly.
Try to keep it to a paragraph, maybe two - especially on LinkedIn. Tell me what you’re currently doing, what you’re looking for, and how I can help.
A reminder here that you should do your research before this point. If a recruiter offers a few courses and resources on their website for a question you want to ask, don’t expect free help with your question.
Don’t be rude
This should go without saying. Always compose yourself, especially if you didn’t get the help you wanted, because you never know who knows who. Again, recruiters are well connected.
If you ask a question and the recruiter respond by directing you to a course they offer - whether you purchase the course or not, tell them you’re thankful for their time.
Don’t ignore our posts
Interact with us casually! Like and comment on our LinkedIn posts. Reshare our posts with your own context.
This always stands out to me. I get lots of messages every day, so what really gets my attention are those who frequently and meaningfully interact with my content.
The key here is to interact with grace. I would rather support the job searcher with a weaker resume and a great attitude than a rude but highly qualified candidate. And most companies feel the same - they’re looking for team players.
Be kind, courteous, and friendly. Be someone a recruiter is excited to find a role for.
