Recruiters, whether retained or contingency-based, often directly contact individuals who, based on their experience and current role, seem qualified for specific job openings. These individuals are frequently employed by the client’s competitors.
What should you do if you receive such a call? While an appealing opportunity might be tempting if you’re unhappy in your current role, consider this scenario: What if you are content with your job? There’s a strategic way to respond that can significantly impact your career trajectory.
Imagine you’re engrossed in a project when a recruiter calls, introducing themselves and briefly outlining an opportunity. Should you dismiss them with a simple, “Thanks, but I’m happy where I am?” That’s a mistake.
Why? Because you’re limiting your access to valuable industry insights and unadvertised opportunities that could advance your career. By shutting down the conversation, you restrict your options and prevent yourself from making informed decisions.
Instead, regardless of your current job satisfaction, listen to what the recruiter has to offer. Engaging with recruiters provides leverage that proactively reaching out often lacks.
Some individuals are genuinely content and uninterested in changing jobs at that moment. However, listening allows you to cultivate relationships, stay informed, and maintain control for when you might need a change.
A friend of mine spent 25 years with a company, starting right after college and working her way up while earning her MBA. Recently, she was unexpectedly laid off and was caught completely off guard.
If you don’t proactively manage your career, your company effectively does. Corporate restructurings, layoffs, and downsizing are increasingly common as companies optimize resources and assess contributions.
Sometimes, layoffs aren’t performance-related. Executives might eliminate entire departments due to restructuring, or new management might bring in their own teams. Such changes can happen swiftly and unexpectedly.
Will you have a network to rely on if this happens to you? Will you have established relationships with recruiters to leverage quickly? Build that network before you need it. The best time to take control of your career is when you’re satisfied and successful, ensuring you’re prepared for any eventuality.