It is human nature to be skeptical when someone approaches you. This is especially true with something crucial like your job. But learning to leverage a construction recruiter can make your job hunt much easier. It can also help you find a job that better fits your goals.

When you work with a recruiter, you can take advantage of their connections. They may even do more than find you your next job. You may create contacts that last throughout your career.

Understand Retained Vs. Contingent Recruiters

You also need to understand the difference between contingent and retained recruiters.

  • Retained recruiters receive an upfront fee. They complete the full candidate search. Because they are already paid, they take their time with the search.
  • Contingent recruiters are paid when someone is hired. They will work fast to earn compensation.

The difference also affects your job options. Retained recruiters are more likely to offer roles in the same companies over and over. Contingent ones may have more variety. But this is not always a guarantee.

Don’t Ignore Their Initial Calls

To start getting the benefits of a recruiter, don’t ignore their calls. You never know when a new recruiter will reach out with a great opportunity.

Just because you answer the phone doesn’t mean you have to work with the recruiter.

Learn About the Recruiters

Answering that first call is crucial, as it gives you the chance to learn about the recruiter. Make a note of their contact information and name. Then look them up online. This will help you gauge if their offers are legitimate.

This step prevents you from wasting time with recruiters who won’t be helpful. But it also ensures you can leverage a construction recruiter if the opportunity arises.

Make It Easy for Recruiters to Find You

You can’t leverage a construction recruiter unless the recruiter can find you. So, make sure to have a LinkedIn profile. Post your resume on local construction job forums.

How to Leverage a Construction Recruiter to Fill Vacant Jobs

Construction firms can also leverage recruiters. They will streamline the process of finding new construction talent. This saves you time, energy, and money.

Make the recruiters’ job as easy as possible by:

  • Building your brand
  • Showing you care about employees
  • Providing career advancement paths
  • Offering signing bonuses
  • Offering competitive compensation and benefits

Most importantly, leverage construction recruiters for their advice. They may suggest a change to make it easier to attract applicants. Perhaps it will be related to compensation or company culture.

At least consider their advice.

Conclusion

Construction recruiters are a helpful tool for candidates and firms alike. Make the most of recruiters by always responding to initial contact requests. Make your resume available. From there, evaluate the opportunity.

How can we help you?

Searching for an opportunity in the construction industry? Contact The Birmingham Group’s team of seasoned commercial construction recruiters today to discuss your career path or browse our open positions.

Are you a hiring authority in need of construction talent? Submit a search request today.