Dear Abby, I get hit up by recruiters ALL the time – how can I respond in the best way to make sure I’m spending my time effectively on conversations that are actually productive?! SPOILER ALERT – NOT all recruiters are created equal.
The Key to Active Job Search: Finding the Right Recruiter
If you are starting to get active in your job search, it’s super beneficial to work with a GOOD (keyword being GOOD) recruiter to keep an eye out for you on the market. Even if the comp or highlights of the opportunity in the message don’t quite look like what you’re wanting but you like the recruiter, you still respond by saying that you’d love to have a conversation to start your search. Make sure to review the recruiter prior to responding.

Spotting the Best: Features of a Good Recruiter
Key things to look for in a recruiter:
- Connections, activity, and a good showing that they are well-networked
- The positions they are working on – do they align with what you have done and what you want to do? Will they be a relevant resource and consultant of the market for you?
- Strong interaction with the market
Passive Job Seekers: Crafting Your Response
If you aren’t active in your search but are interested in hearing about the right opportunities, a productive response can be: “Thanks so much for reaching out! I’m not actively looking, but I am interested in positions that have the following:
- The first main thing you’re looking for
- The second main thing you’re looking for
- The third main thing you’re looking for
Will you highlight how your position fits these requirements? If so, I’d be happy to hop on a call to discuss them in depth. If not, I’d love to stay connected when you get something that aligns with this.”
Establishing Mutual Interest: Working With a Recruiter
I will never send anyone to a company without talking with them first and making sure there is interest on both sides. I also understand wanting to make sure conversations are relevant. It’s always good to establish a relationship with a killer recruiter in your market who can be your eyes and ears and your market resource!
Share Your Story: Your Experience with Recruiters
I would love to hear about your recent experiences getting hit by recruiters and how you’ve handled it! Reach out to anyone on our Prospex Recruiting team to start your search, discuss what the market looks like, or just start that recruiter relationship!
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