How to Work with a Recruiter in 2025: What This Former Recruiter Wishes You Knew
Working with a recruiter can be a game-changer in your job search—but only if you approach it correctly. Recruiters are not career coaches, and in 2025, the hiring landscape is more competitive than ever.
Recruiters Don’t Work for You
Let’s clear this up: Recruiters work for the company that pays them. Their job is to find the best fit for the company’s needs—not to personally guide you through your job search. Managing expectations will save you frustration.
Not All Recruiters Are the Same
Corporate Recruiters: Work in-house at a company and fill roles internally.
Agency or Third-Party Recruiters: Work for staffing firms and fill roles for multiple companies.
Knowing the difference helps you approach them correctly.
Your Resume Matters More Than Ever
Recruiters get thousands of resumes. Make yours stand out.
Use keywords from the job description
Show measurable results (numbers > buzzwords)
Keep it easy to scan—no fancy fonts or confusing layouts
Be Honest About Your Expectations
If you won’t accept a job under $120K, say that upfront. If you need remote work, say it. Being clear saves everyone time.
Focus on What You Can Control
Recruiters are overwhelmed. Many are watching their own colleagues lose jobs while managing thousands of applications and LinkedIn messages. It’s impossible to personally respond to everyone.
Give them some grace. Instead of obsessing over recruiter responses, focus on:
Strengthening your resume and LinkedIn
Expanding your network
Applying for jobs strategically
Ghosting Works Both Ways
Yes, recruiters ghost. But so do candidates. If you’ve changed your mind about a role, be professional and let them know. Good relationships matter—especially when markets are tight.
Follow Up (But Don’t Stalk)
If you haven’t heard back after a week, a polite check-in is fine. But multiple emails, LinkedIn DMs, and phone calls? Nope. Respect their workload.
A Recruiter is One Piece of Your Job Search
Recruiters are helpful, but you can’t rely only on them. Successful job searches in 2025 require:
Networking (referrals still win)
Strategic applications (quality > quantity)
A strong LinkedIn presence (because recruiters check!)
The Right Way to Approach a Recruiter
Subject Line: “Experienced Marketing Manager Open to New Roles”
Message: “Hi [Recruiter’s Name], I saw you specialize in marketing roles. I’m a Marketing Manager with 8+ years of experience in [industry]. I’m looking for my next opportunity in [specific field]. Would love to connect!”
Pro Tip: Make it clear and easy for them to understand who you are and what you want.
Recruiters Can Be a Huge Asset—If You Use Them The Right Way
Approach the process strategically, professionally, and with the right expectations. Do this, and you’ll stand out—in the best way possible.