Tech recruiters often operate differently than recruiters in other industries and staying on a recruiter’s good side is crucial to your job search success! Here are a few key tips to guide you:
Should you connect with a tech recruiter on LinkedIn as a way to first contact them?
NO. Everyone has their own way of using LinkedIn for networking, and tech recruiters are no different. If a recruiter doesn’t know you, they are unlikely to accept a random connection request, especially if there is no intro note.
Exception: The only exception to this rule is if the recruiter states clearly on their profile that they are open to new connections. Some also put their email address on their profile and tell you to contact them via email instead.
Should you text/DM with a recruiter on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, etc?
NO. Just because it’s your preferred way to communicate with friends, that doesn’t mean it’s the best way to communicate with a tech recruiter. I’ve had recruiters tell me bluntly that actions like this torpedoed a candidate. Also, many recruiters need to track their candidate communications so email is still the best way for them to do that.
Exception: If the recruiter has told you explicitly that it’s ok to DM or text, or reached out to you via DM/text. Make sure you’re still being professional tho, and don’t use too much slang/shorthand to ensure there is no confusion.
How often should you engage with a tech recruiter?
Before you’ve applied: Little to no engagement. Most recruiters will not respond to pre-application enquiries. If they did reply, it would be to tell you to network pre-application with a personal contact or fellow alum to get your initial questions answered.
After you’ve applied but before they have actioned on your application: Similar to above, little or no engagement. Having an employee refer you to a role can help ensure that your application is reviewed, but emailing a recruiter directly doesn’t usually do much.
During the interview process: Regularly but balance being persistent with pestering. This can vary but a weekly or bi-weekly check-in is usually plenty during the interview process. Make sure to let them know if you receive another offer so they can help accelerate your process if necessary.
Email etiquette tip: Don’t just hit reply and say ‘I’m available!’
If they don’t have the email history in front of them or have to scroll down, you’re making it harder for them to take action on your behalf.
Take an extra 30seconds to write something like ‘Yes, I’m available at X time on Y date and look forward to speaking with you/the interviewer.’
I promise you - you’ll rise above many other candidates with that small action.
You’ll notice there was an exception to every example above or a nuance to navigate -- which is common in tech job searching! There are no absolutes, which is why it can be tricky to navigate. Schedule a Networking Strategy call so I can help you strategize if you’re confused or stuck.
