Of course you do! Most high level positions are obtained by the networking relationships you have established. According to ere.net, a recruiting intelligence company, 58 percent of people hunting for jobs were hired via an internal move or networking. Choosing and partnering with a recruiter is an essential ingredient to networking and getting hired in today’s job market. Recruiters have relationships with companies that do not advertise their open positions as well as companies that are looking at confidential searches for talent. A recruiter may be your only way into a company.
Let’s look at what happens in your job search when you are out there on your own. You submit your resume, and possibly a cover letter to multiple positions on various job sites. Where do they go? 
A good portion of the time, they go into the “black hole” of a resume database known as the Applicant Tracking System (ATS). Do you think HR has the time to look through each resume to find a potential fit? Not likely! Depending on the type of position, hundreds of resumes could be submitted. What are the chances you will be called? They aren’t high, unless you are a complete rock star.
So, how do you choose a recruiter? You need to research the top recruiters in your area of expertise and get connected with them. Choosing to partner with a few is a great start.
- Keep your eyes open for what these recruiters are posting and apply to relevant positions
- Send an introductory email with your resume attached
- Place a phone call to introduce yourself and explain the types of positions you are targeting
- Ask to schedule a meeting
- Send a request to connect on LinkedIn.
If your skills are not the best fit for a current opportunity, chances are that a recruiter can connect you with others.
Once you have connected with a recruiter, make sure you are also interviewing them to see if you should partner with them.
- Do they align with the types of industries in which you have experience?
- Are they able to make a connection from your current experience and skills into a new industry?
- Do they take the time to understand what you are looking for?
- Do they take the time to get to know you and your skills, values, and personality?
- Do they know the best types of positions/industries in which to market you?
- Are they able to make suggestions about your resume, cover letter and job approach?
- Are they able to suggest how to better use LinkedIn, networking and social media?
Yes, you do need to partner with a recruiter! Consider your role in the partnership. Keep in contact on a monthly basis by email, phone, and LinkedIn. Take the time to update your resume and cover letter with their suggestions, and send the recruiter the updated version. Take advantage of their knowledge of LinkedIn and networking and put it to good use. Finally, give back. Refer other great talent to the recruiter and really work to build a strong two-way relationship. You are now on your way to networking to your next position!
Reference:
Amara Miller