In my last post, I explained how headhunters work, and the importance of targeting them correctly. But how do you find the right headhunters for your industry, level, and/or profession?
They key is to do some research and there are lots of great resources for finding the recruiters best suited to help you. In this article, I’ll show you 3 different ways to build a comprehensive list of targeted recruiters.
Option #1: Use your network to find headhunters
First, check with people you know to find out if anyone can refer you to headhunters. Ask the HR department at your last company whether they worked with any specific headhunters. Ask current or former managers and executives to recommend search firms. Ask friends and colleagues if they know of anyone.
If a headhunter is recommended to you by someone else, be sure to mention your mutual connection when you make contact.
Option #2: Online search
Here is a selection of resources you can use to build your headhunter list. Wherever possible, visit their websites to check the kind of positions they fill. The information in these databases is generally accurate, but there is always the chance that the firm has changed its focus since the database was compiled.
This directory is a solid collection of headhunters that you can research by specialty or location and complete with contact information for each.
Another nice directory that allows you to target your search and find contact information/websites for the headhunters in the database.
This is a good listing of recruiter databases and directories and will give you lots of options.
Option #3: Use LinkedIn
LinkedIn is an excellent way to find headhunters. Donna Svei has a great infographic on how to search for headhunters on LinkedIn. You can find it here.
Build a comprehensive list
The more recruiters you find, the more chances you have of hearing about a great opportunity.
Your goal is to build a list of:
• Headhunters who specialize in your profession (e.g. accountants).
• Headhunters who specialize in the broader area your profession fits into (e.g. finance).
• Headhunters who specialize in your industry, but may cover all professions in that industry.
Once you have the list it’s time to start making contact. In my next post, I’ll tell you how to do that effectively. To be notified when it’s posted, just drop your email address here. (We never share email addresses with anyone).
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