RECRUITER OUTREACH! How Candidates Can Respond (without losing your mind)

We’ve all seen this tired old message:

“I came across your profile and was very impressed with your background! I’d love to talk to you about opportunities!”

Honestly y’all I catch MYSELF typing that some days and I immediately send myself to time out to think about what I’ve done.

Terrible. Terrible opener and I hate myself for sometimes starting with it.

Alrighty now that we have THAT covered, let’s get real. Some messages are going to be GREAT. Highly targeted, full of useful insights, and a clear call to action. Others, not so much – and it’s hard for job seekers to know which ones deserve a response!

Pro tip – not every message deserves a response.

The key takeaway here is deciding how much emotional energy you’re willing to invest in this conversation. Make no mistake job seekers – even subconsciously you’re investing! Taking the time to read the message. Considering your response. Picturing yourself interviewing. How life changing the role could be if you get an offer…. you know the feeling.

I want you to give yourself permission to NOT attend every conversation you’re invited to. Well intentioned recruiters may try to convince you that you should take EVERY call (especially THEIRS!) in the name of networking. To that, I say hell no. Protect your time, space, and energy. You’re going to need it for the REAL opportunities coming your way!

If the message gives you the necessary info (job description, compensation, location, etc) AND you’re interested, it’s perfectly ok to say so! If there’s not enough detail or you’re simply unsure how to respond? Here’s some templates you can use as a starting point to continuing the conversation.

Interested / open to work

Ideally, the message includes a clear call to action. It’s ok to simply acknowledge that and follow whatever guidance has been provided. If the message is not that clear, try something like this:

“Hi (Recruiter),

Thanks so much for reaching out! I am excited to learn more about (company) and (role). As an experienced (title), I’m actively searching for a role where I can (work you love). I’m open to (locations, titles, any relevant role related insights) with a target compensation of ($X).

I’m available for a call/interviews (availability). I look forward to connecting with you!

You“

Not interested but could be convinced

“Hi (Recruiter),

Thanks for reaching out. I’m not actively looking, but open to hearing about opportunities that may be significantly better than what I’m doing today. I’m currently a (title) where I (overview of work). I would be open to roles were I can (dream scope) in (location, hybrid, remote). In order to seriously consider a change, I would be looking for at least $X in total compensation.

If you have roles that align, I’d be happy to schedule a chat to learn more. Please send over more information about (job description, company, compensation) and I’ll get back to you right away.

Thanks,

You“

These templates are meant to be edited to reflect our own personal voice, wishlists, and expectations. It is critical that you understand your own job search boundaries. Many job seekers fall into the “all do anything!” trap and the reality is that can cause more harm than good. If you don’t have a target, how can you know where to aim? Take the time to really think about what you’re good at, where you could exchange that labor for money, and what that compensation needs to be to make sense for you. Don’t be afraid to take control of the conversation! You deserve nothing less.

Check out this week’s video HERE