Tips on Choosing a Recruiter

Be selective in your approach - Wouldn't it be nice to work with people who have worked in the industry and have an understanding of what you do.

So chose a Recruiter who has knowledge and insight into the pharmaceutical industry.

Check the Recruiter's background - Ensure your Recruiter is REC* registered.

It is important to build a relationship with your Recruiter, you are entrusting a very important part of your life to them - Your Career.  Working with a Recruiter you feel comfortable with is vital to find the right role and ‘fit' for you.

You are interviewed by the Recruiter, face-to-face where possible.  Your Consultant will be happy to feedback on your interview skills and offer advice where necessary.
 
Best Practice necessitates that you are asked to sign a consent form by your Recruiter and do not be surprised to be asked for proof of identity and your academic qualifications.

If you are working with more than one Recruiter, ensure you are in the ‘driving seat'.  It can be quite frustrating managing the communication between yourself and several Recruiters.

Avoid the ‘Shopping List' approach whereby the Recruiter will go through a list of clients and suggest sending your details to all of them, this is not good practice.

Ask for job descriptions and website details of any role your Recruiter discusses with you, analyse this information before you commit to anything.

Do not be pressurised into attending interviews you don't want to.  An ethical Recruiter will provide information such as the culture of the client and give you insight into the respective company.  Importantly they will respect your decision if you decide for whatever reason not to proceed.

Your Recruiter should advise you of the interview process from start to finish.  Once an interview is secured, you should receive regular updates and post interview feedback.

Remember best practice ensures your details are confidential at all times.

The acid test being when asked by a close friend, would you recommend your Recruiter?

*  The Recruitment & Employment Confederation (REC) is the professional body representing the recruitment industry.  All members adhere to the Code of Good Recruitment Practice which has been developed to ensure the highest standards and the Recruiter's commitment to professional and ethical recruitment. 
www.rec.uk.com