What Are Recruiters All About, Anyway?

People have a number of preconceived notions about who Recruiters are and what they do. Now that I’ve begun my own career recruiting top talent in Life Sciences, I want to set the record straight about some common misconceptions.

MYTH: Recruiters find all their candidates on LinkedIn.

FACT:   LinkedIn InMails have about a 17% response rate, so I cannot rely solely on LinkedIn to find the right candidates. I need to be more resourceful than that.  I search our extensive databases, ask for candidate referrals, and pick up the phone to connect with potential candidates.

MYTH: Recruiters don’t specialize in my industry.

FACT:  In my previous career, I worked in the trenches in the life sciences industry for nearly 8 years, so I really understand what the industry is all about. I have an advantage since I have been on both sides: sourcing new candidates for the company I worked for as well as being a candidate.  

MYTH: Recruiters are high-pressure salespeople.

FACT:  Since I started the journey into recruiting, I have been so pleased to hear my mentors and colleagues talk about making the right “match” for their candidates and clients. My job is to bring people together and find the right matches, not force something that may not be in someone’s best interest.

MYTH: Recruiters care more about the fee than the candidate.

FACT:  Success in recruiting, like sales, is often dependent on referrals and return business. I also want my candidates happy and excited about advancing their careers and finding the right positions. If I make a poor match, I am potentially hurting my future business and professional reputation.    

MYTH: They have the best jobs!

FACT:  Since I was heavily recruited throughout my life science career, I have spoken with many recruiters. Most of them sounded genuinely happy and excited about their careers and the positions they wanted to fill. The work is grueling but so rewarding.  It is truly magic when it works out for all parties involved.  Everyone is happy when I do my job well!