Hiring professionals, like recruiters and HR Managers, take a lot of calls every day. Aside from just being busy people, here are the top eight reasons why they won’t call you – no matter how suitable you feel you may be for one of their advertised vacancies.
You are invisible online.
When once recruitment companies up and down the country relied heavily on an in-house database which often contained out-of-date candidate records and old CVs, these days, so much of candidate research is done online using powerful and intelligent talent matching platforms.
AI sourcing tools allow companies to source top tier talent from over 50 professional social channels simultaneously. Driven my keywords reflecting target skills, companies or types of experience, unless your online profile comprehensively describes these details, it’s unlikely that your profile will show up if a recruiter were searching. People never know when they are going to miss a great opportunity because a recruiter can’t find them. So, get out there!
You are inactive online.
If a recruiter was to stumble onto one of your online profiles like LinkedIn for example only to find it sparsely populated and with little or no activity (posts, likes, shares, article, comments etc.), there’s a risk that some recruiters may take your inactivity online as a sign that you’re not up to date on social media and therefore not up to date in general. Staying active online is a great way to boost your exposure and credibility as a thought leader in your field of expertise. Sharing your knowledge and enthusiasm is a terrific way to entice recruiters to reach out to you and discuss suitable opportunities.
You’re not in the public domain.
Beyond social media, recruiters also search more broadly – at conferences, trade shows and professional association events. If you have appeared on a conference panel, posted a guest blog or podcast, or if you are a current member of a professional group, then your name is more likely to surface in the places recruiters typically research. The more you’re out there, the more likely you’ll be found. Be warned though, at some out-of-office events, particularly where alcohol is served; it can be easy to relax a little too much. Remember to remain professional as you never know who is watching or listening
What do you do again?
You’re a Nuclear Fusion Research Engineer. But, you’re sending your CV to recruiters who recruit Software Engineers or Sales Managers. What? Get to know your recruiter or at least know who you’re targeting. Take the time to learn about who you’re sending your CV to.
One of the best ways to identify recruitment agencies is to ask your contacts for recommendations based on their personal experience. Also, review the job listings in professional publications and LinkedIn to notice which agencies are advertising for the type of roles you want. With this knowledge in hand, you’ll be better able to select the right recruiter in your niche.
It’s a tough world out there.
Although it may be considered an unpopular opinion, recruiters prefer to take the path of least resistance when it comes to matching talent to their client’s needs. The talent market has never been so competitive, and it’s in the recruiter’s interest to help their clients find the right candidate at the right time.
You may be great, but have you fallen on horrific circumstances beyond your control and have had five jobs in the last year? This could be a harder “sell” for some recruiters to make to their clients and they won’t respond. Candidly and realistically evaluate your history before you apply. You’re still great, and you will land a good job if you take control! Consider getting help from a professional Career Advisor who may recommend joining industry groups, pertinent training courses and other ways to make the recruiter see through those initial setbacks.
You’re Literally Everywhere.
If you’re blasting your CV out there, the recruiter knows. Why would they waste time if they think you’re looking at 100 different things? I’m not saying to limit yourself; heck, it’s your life we’re talking about! I’m saying be selective and present yourself as a hot prospect, and you’ll get the attention you deserve.
I know this listing may seem a bit harsh, but I speak from experience. Don’t waste your opportunity to make an impact on your prospects or any other professional who is in a position to help you. They may just surprise you and call you back!
Your Voicemail is Not Professional.
If a recruiter is calling you to invite you for a job interview or maybe just to speak to you, but your voice message sounds bad – I mean bad, it can all end right there and then. For instance if your child has recorded the message (yes, I’ve heard it a few times!) or if you’re speaking so quickly that you can’t be understood or even worse, mumbling, or if you sound like you are miserable and glum, then your message won’t professionally identify you or offer anything positive.
Even worse is not having voicemail set up at all. Recruiters may usually make two attempts, but then can’t be bothered anymore because just like you, they hate wasting time.
You Didn’t Respond.
This point speaks for itself. Missing a phone call now may mean you won’t be contacted again. Even if you don’t want another job, or if the position described in the voicemail didn’t suit your ambitions, it’s still worth responding as recruiter relationships are helpful and their call is a sign that you are marketable and visible.
Which of the eight mistakes are you guilty of?
Amelia Brooke is the founder of ABCV Solutions, the UK’s only specialist CV writing company that’s 100% dedicated to the engineering sector. Amelia has seen hundreds of clients advance their careers, earn promotions and take on challenging and satisfying positions they love. Connect with her on Linkedin
