Oftentimes, it is better to have a tool in advance before you wind up needing it. The worst time to decide to buy a snow shovel is when there are already several feet of snow on the ground.

The same is true with finding people who can help you get a new job if you suddenly find yourself out of work.

As Kathryn Dill of the Wall Street Journal explains, you might not even realize that there are different kinds of job recruiters. For instance, there are corporate recruiters who are only trying to fill roles within a specific company.

Then there are also recruiters who specifically work only with people who possess certain skills.

If neither of those meet your criteria, you likely want an external recruiter who works with a generalized staffing firm.

However, just because they work within the specifications you want does not mean you will click on a professional level. Just as you are looking for the right person to help you, the recruiter is looking for the right person to recommend a position to.

If the first recruiter you reach out to is not able to offer you something helpful, don’t write off all recruiters. You just need to find someone you are more compatible with.

If you are not actively seeking a new position, be upfront about that with the recruiter so they don’t waste time reaching out to you for every opportunity related to your field.

It is okay to say you are just trying to find someone who knows your industry so you can keep each other in mind if circumstances change. That way if the day comes when your current position pulls the rug out from underneath you, you already have a preexisting connection who can help.

For further tips on finding the best job recruiter for you, read the Wall Street Journal article here.

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Wilmington University, the sponsor of DELCO Today — Career Corner, is a private, open-access institution that serves more than 20,000 adults, including those seeking advancement through higher education and traditional-age students who aspire to become successful global citizens.

One of the most affordable private universities in the Delaware Valley, WilmU is committed to the idea that finishing an undergraduate degree or obtaining a master’s or doctoral degree can be affordable and accessible.

The University offers over 200 accredited and career-relevant degree and certificate programs in flexible online and hybrid formats designed to accommodate adults of all ages who work full- or part-time or juggle demanding career, family, and personal schedules.

Learn more about WilmU here or register to attend one of the University’s webinars. You will find information about academic programs, flexible scheduling options, tuition, admissions, student services, athletics, and more.